safehaven

Specialized Residential Care for Individuals with Brain Injury & Ventilator Dependency

When care is complex and time is critical, Safehaven is your trusted partner. We provide expert, compassionate placement in a home-like environment that supports dignity, stability, and quality of life.

safehaven

Who We Are & What We Do Georgia’s only life-long, faith-based program for ventilator-dependent patients

 Navigating life with a severe brain injury or on a ventilator requires more than just clinical oversight—it requires a partner who understands the delicate balance between high-acuity medical needs and the desire for a meaningful, dignified life.

At Safehaven, we bridge the gap between hospital-grade respiratory support and a warm, residential environment. We are built for the most challenging cases. Families gain peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving 24/7 expert care from a team that treats every resident like family.

24/7 Specialized Nursing

Round-the-clock monitoring by licensed nurses with an exceptional 2:1 resident-to-caregiver ratio.

JSF caregiver and resident smiling at the camera with glasses on

Respiratory Therapy Leadership

Under the leadership of our Medical Director, Dr. Anna Choo Elmers, and Director of Respiratory Care, Dr. Philip Wexler, Safehaven maintains the highest standards of clinical excellence. We advocate for a personalized approach that prioritizes both medical stability and human dignity.

Safehaven's

Continuity of Care

We work closely with leading regional hospitals, physicians, and respiratory therapists to ensure a seamless transition from acute care to our residential setting.

Focus on Quality of Life

Residents aren't just patients; they are community members. We provide over 30 hours each week of cognitive-stimulating and therapeutic programs tailored to each individual's ability level.

Safehaven event with a resident and caretaker holding hands in the air

Our Comprehensive Care Encompasses

Why Choose Safehaven?

Dual Specialization

Expertise in both brain injury care and ventilator dependency.

Collaborative Care

Close coordination with treating physicians, respiratory therapists, and consultants.

All-Inclusive Support

All hygiene-related disposable supplies are provided, along with the monitoring, ordering, and maintenance of medical equipment.

Jerry has been a resident of Safehaven since April 2001. I am very happy with the quality of care he has received during that time.

Pat H., Family Member

Up close image of a safehaven resident smiling at the camera

Admissions Criteria

We want to make the placement process as clear and stress-free as possible.


General admission criteria include:

A doctor studying the affects of brain injury on a x-ray

Diagnosis of brain injury or acquired brain injury causing physical and/or cognitive impairment.
A gloved hand filling a feeding tube for a ventilator dependent resident

Ability to tolerate a normal diet or PEG tube feeding (per physician orders).

Ventilator-dependent and tracheostomy residents are accepted as appropriate.

Resident-owned durable medical equipment is required.

Four Steps to Placement

A Streamlined Process for Families and Discharge Planners

Initial Inquiry

Contact our admissions team to discuss your or your patient’s specific needs.

Clinical Review

Our team will assess compatibility through a medical record review and/or an in-person evaluation.

Family Meeting & Tour

Meet our staff and see our welcoming environment.

Placement Approval

Once a bed is confirmed, we will fully support the transition into our care.

FAQs

  • What is Safehaven?

    Safehaven is Georgia's only lifelong, faith-based residential care program for individuals with brain injuries who are ventilator-dependent. It bridges hospital-grade respiratory support with a warm, home-like residential environment.

  • Who does Safehaven serve?

    Individuals with a diagnosis of brain injury or acquired brain injury causing physical and/or cognitive impairment, including residents who are ventilator-dependent or have a tracheostomy.

  • What level of care is provided?

    At Safehaven we provide the highest level of care for people with traumatic brain injuries.


    24/7 specialized nursing with a 2:1 resident-to-caregiver ratio, respiratory therapy under the leadership of Medical Director Dr. Anna Choo Elmers and Director of Respiratory Care Dr. Philip Wexler, and close coordination with treating physicians, respiratory therapists, and consultants.

  • What are the admissions criteria?

    • Diagnosis of brain injury or acquired brain injury causing physical and/or cognitive impairment
    • Ability to tolerate a normal diet or PEG tube feeding (per physician orders)
    • Ventilator-dependent and tracheostomy residents accepted as appropriate
    • Resident-owned durable medical equipment required

    For more information contact our admissions team below!

  • Where is Safehaven located?

    9558 US-27, PO Box 69, Rock Spring, GA 30739

  • What are Safehaven's hours?

    Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST

Connect With Our Admissions Team

Ready to learn more about who we are and how we can help?

Whether you are a family member looking for a long-term home for a loved one, or a hospital case manager navigating a complex discharge, our Admissions Team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Patsy Nickle in a red suit jacket

VP of Education and Business Resource Development

Business Resource Development Liaison

423-244-1513