FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
What are visiting hours?

Regular visiting hours are 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visits are limited to these hours to allow our patients to rest. Outside of these hours, we lock our doors, as most patients are asleep. For before- or after-hours visits, please use the doorbell; our staff will be happy to assist you in entering the facility.

Is there a limit to the number of people who can visit at one time?

There is no limit. However, we ask that large groups meet with the patient in our dining room or public meeting areas to avoid interfering with the patient’s roommate.

Is there any private space available to use?

Families may reserve the conference room or social worker office for private meetings or special events with advance notice by contacting the social services department or the activities department.

Can children visit?

Yes, children are allowed. We ask that all visitors refrain from visiting if they are sick or have any symptoms of illness. If children visit, we ask that they be mindful of noise levels.

Can we bring a family pet to the facility?

We love when pets come to visit. We ask that you clean up after your pet and take proper safety measures. All pets must have current vaccinations and remain on a leash at all times.

Can I take my loved one home for a visit?

Patients may take a leave of absence only with a physician’s authorization, which can be arranged through the nursing staff. Upon arrival and departure, the patient or responsible party must sign the leave-of-absence log located at the nurses station.

Can patients receive mail?
Mail is delivered to patients personally on a daily basis except for weekends and holidays.

Sierra Vista Healthcare Center
Attn: ___________________
Room No. _____
1715 S. Cedar Avenue
Fresno, CA 93702

Is smoking permitted in the facility?

Smoking is not permitted in the facility. 

How do I find out about activities provided for patients?

We strive to create social programs and individualized activities to match the capabilities and needs of each patient. This also has a powerful effect on the healing process of those patients involved in rehabilitation. Specific activities may include active patient councils, musical performances, updates on current events, singing exercises, fitness activities, stretching exercises, religious meetings, outside entertainment, games, trivia, history, and volunteer involvement. We encourage families to participate with the patients in activities. A monthly calendar is posted on our activity board in the dining room to keep residents informed of upcoming activities and special events. An activity representative visits the patient rooms daily to encourage participation.

What role do social services play?

Our social services team assists both patients and their families during transition periods. They also provide essential information, manage requests and concerns, and help in care and discharge planning for each patient. They can arrange professional services for dental, vision, podiatry, audiology, power of attorney, dementia assessment, psychosocial and psychiatric evaluation, and individual therapy.

Can a patient request a haircut at the facility?

Yes. We have a beautician available in the building Wednesday through Friday. Patients can visit the front desk for appointments and details. They can also schedule their own beautician to visit the building as long as the beautician presents an appropriate license to the front office.

Will my loved one’s room have a television?

Each room is equipped with a personal television and full cable access.  

Will my loved one have telephone access?

Yes. Each bedside has phone access. Patients are also welcome to bring their own cell phones.

Will my loved one have internet access?

Free Wi-Fi internet is provided for residents and their guests. 

How often will the therapy staff work with a rehabilitation patient?

Each patient will be evaluated to determine his or her individual rehabilitation needs, but we have the capacity to treat patients seven days a week. 

Who do I talk to about questions regarding financials, billing, and/or admission paperwork?

For all related questions, please visit our front office. Our business office manager addresses all financial and billing concerns. The admissions coordinator will guide you through the necessary forms required on admission and review the rules and regulations regarding Medicare, Medicaid, and various insurances. The admissions office will come to the patient’s room to do a paper signing or call the family to schedule a signing. The business office manager will explain all financials/billing.

Will Medicare cover my loved one’s stay in the facility?

Generally, Medicare pays for 100% of your stay during the first 20 days of care. After the 20th day, Medicare requires a daily co-insurance copay of $176 a day for 2020. Medicare does not cover skilled nursing fees beyond 100 days.

Who do I talk to about food preferences?

Our registered dietitian and/or food service director interviews new residents upon admission in regard to food preferences and special needs. Our food service personnel prepare all the meals. Special care is taken to serve appetizing and healthy foods. All menus are developed according to prescribed medical diets ordered by the physicians.

Should you wish for another food item on a particular day’s menu, please make the CNA aware of your request. Alternate menus are always available. 

What is an ombudsman?

An ombudsman is an advocate for patients. He or she is a third-party person NOT employed by the facility who comes by periodically to monitor the activities going on. The ombudsman does not direct the facility but can serve as a voice for a patient with a concern.