Frequently Asked Questions | Scenic Nursing & Rehab Center

Have questions about skilled nursing or rehabilitation care? We’ve answered the most common questions families ask when considering Scenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Herculaneum, MO. Can’t find what you need? Contact our admissions team — we’re happy to help.
Admissions & Getting Started
How do I get admitted to Scenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center?

Admission begins with a referral from a physician, hospital, or family member. Our admissions coordinator will review the patient’s medical records to ensure we can meet their care needs. We accept admissions 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. Contact us at any time and we’ll guide you through each step.

How quickly can a loved one be admitted?

In many cases we can complete an admission within 24–48 hours of receiving the necessary medical documentation. If you’re being discharged from a hospital, your hospital social worker can coordinate directly with our team to make the transition as smooth as possible.

What should I bring for my loved one when they move in?

We recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable, washable clothing (7–10 days’ worth)
  • Personal toiletries and hygiene products
  • Eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures with their cases
  • A list of current medications and dosages
  • Insurance cards and photo ID
  • Favorite personal items to make the room feel like home (photos, a small blanket, books)

Please label all personal belongings with the resident’s name. We provide bedding, pillows, and basic toiletries.

Can I tour the facility before making a decision?

Absolutely. We encourage families to schedule a guided tour of our facility so you can see our rooms, therapy areas, dining hall, and common spaces in person. Tours can be arranged Monday through Friday and most weekends. Request a tour here or call our admissions office.

Medicare, Medicaid & Payment
Does Scenic accept Medicare and Medicaid?

Yes. We are a Medicare-certified and Medicaid-approved (MO HealthNet) facility. We also accept most major private insurance plans and long-term care insurance policies. Our admissions team will verify your coverage and explain your benefits before admission so there are no surprises.

How many days does Medicare cover in a skilled nursing facility?

Medicare Part A can cover up to 100 days of skilled nursing facility (SNF) care per benefit period, provided you meet the qualifying criteria:

  • You were admitted to a hospital for at least 3 consecutive days (not counting the discharge day)
  • You are admitted to a Medicare-certified SNF within 30 days of your hospital stay
  • A physician has ordered skilled care (therapy, wound care, IV medications, etc.)
A cozy family moment as an elderly woman has her blood pressure checked by a younger man, with another woman nearby.

Medicare covers 100% of the cost for days 1–20. For days 21–100, there is a daily coinsurance amount (around $200/day in 2025). After day 100, you are responsible for the full cost unless you have supplemental insurance. Our billing team will help you understand your specific situation.

What if my Medicare benefits run out?

When Medicare coverage ends, several options are available depending on your situation:

  • Medicaid (MO HealthNet): For residents who qualify based on income and assets, Medicaid can cover long-term care costs. Our social services team can help you apply.
  • Private pay: We accept private payment at transparent daily rates.
  • Long-term care insurance: If you hold a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover some or all costs after Medicare.

We will never discharge a resident solely because Medicare coverage has ended. Our team will work with you to explore all available options.

What is the daily cost of skilled nursing care at Scenic?

Costs vary based on the level of care required and your payer source (Medicare, Medicaid, or private pay). The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact our admissions team directly. We are transparent about pricing and will provide a full written breakdown before admission. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans, which significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs for most residents.

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Services
What types of rehabilitation therapy are offered?

Our licensed therapy team provides:

  • Physical Therapy (PT): Rebuilding strength, mobility, and balance after surgery, stroke, or injury
  • Occupational Therapy (OT): Restoring ability to perform daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and cooking
  • Speech-Language Therapy (SLP): Addressing swallowing difficulties, communication, and cognitive skills
A family monitors blood pressure at home, ensuring health and wellness.

Therapy sessions are typically scheduled 5–7 days per week for short-term rehab patients, tailored to each individual’s goals and recovery plan.

What is the difference between short-term rehab and long-term care?

Short-term rehabilitation is typically for patients recovering from surgery (hip replacement, knee replacement, cardiac surgery), stroke, or a serious illness. The goal is to regain independence and return home as quickly as possible. Medicare usually covers this type of stay.

Long-term care is for residents who need ongoing daily nursing assistance and cannot safely live independently. Residents may stay for months or years. This is often covered by Medicaid or private pay after Medicare benefits are exhausted.

Is nursing care available 24 hours a day?

Yes. Scenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provides 24-hour licensed nursing coverage, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are on duty at all times, supported by Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) who assist with daily care needs.

Do you provide care for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s?

Yes. Our staff is trained to care for residents with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory-related conditions. We provide structured daily routines, a safe environment, and compassionate care that meets the unique needs of memory care residents. Please speak with our admissions team about specific programming and accommodations.

Visiting & Family Involvement
What are the visiting hours?

We welcome visitors every day. Family and friends are encouraged to visit and stay involved in their loved one’s care and daily life. Please check in at the front desk when you arrive. Some care and therapy activities have scheduled times, so calling ahead can help you plan the best time to visit.

Can family members be involved in the care plan?

Absolutely. We believe families are essential partners in the care process. After admission, our team will hold a care plan meeting — typically within the first 14 days — where you will meet with nursing, therapy, dietary, and social services staff to discuss goals, progress, and any concerns. You are welcome to attend and participate in all care plan meetings.

Man assisting elderly woman with blood pressure check at home in a friendly atmosphere.
Can residents personalize their rooms?

Yes! We want residents to feel at home. You are welcome to bring personal items such as family photos, artwork, a favorite blanket, a small television, or other meaningful belongings to make the room comfortable and familiar. Please speak with our admissions team about size guidelines and any items that are not permitted for safety reasons.

Awards & Quality of Care
What awards has Scenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center received?

We are proud of our nationally recognized quality record:

  • Newsweek America’s Best Nursing Homes 2025 — Named one of the top nursing homes in the nation by Newsweek (DR91 editorial recognition)
  • AHCA/NCAL Silver Quality Award — Awarded by the American Health Care Association for excellence in quality improvement
  • Top 10 Missouri Nursing Homes 2021 — Recognized as one of Missouri’s top-rated nursing facilities

These awards reflect our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional, person-centered care every day.

What is the CMS Star Rating for Scenic?

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rates nursing homes on a 1–5 star scale based on health inspections, staffing levels, and quality measures. Our facility’s current rating is available on the Medicare Care Compare website. We are committed to continuous quality improvement and welcome any questions about our ratings and inspection results.

Still Have Questions?

Our admissions team is available to answer any questions you have about care options, costs, or the admission process. We’re here to help your family make the best decision.

Contact Our Admissions Team