The interdisciplinary and comprehensive team works with patients and families to help the patient become as independent as possible. The professionals collaborate with the patient and family to coordinate care, set and obtain goals, and monitor progress. Our team members are certified and licensed, experienced professionals who update their skills through a variety of continuing education and hands-on therapy. Depending upon the particular needs of the patient, the team could include any of the following:
- Physiatrist
- Rehabilitation Nurse
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Recreational Therapist
- Social Worker/Case Manager
- Psychologist
Attending Physician/Physiatrist
A specialized rehabilitation physician, known as a physiatrists, leads our patient planning process to help enhance patient's rapid recovery. The attending physician is usually a family practitioner or internist. This physician directs patient care, identifies problems and prescribes medication and therapy.
Rehabilitation Nurse
A rehab nurse is responsible for the daily nursing care of each patient, based on individually tailored care plans. The nurse also educates the patient about skin care, medications, and care after discharge.
Physical Therapist
The physical therapist serves to improve a person's movement, strength, coordination, balance, sensation and flexibility. The PT works to help the patient achieve a higher level of mobility both in and out of the home environment. When a person's ability to walk is impaired, a therapist may recommend the use of an appropriate assistive device such as a walker, cane, braces or wheelchair.
Occupational Therapist
The occupational therapist works to improve the skills needed to perform self-care activities and return to work. The OT may also assist with increasing strength, balance, sensation and coordination. Other areas addressed by the OT include cognitive (thinking) skills and perceptual abilities. To assist the patient in performing activities of daily living, the OT may instruct the patient in the use of adaptive equipment and/or techniques.
Speech/Language Pathologist
A speech/language pathologist (speech therapist) addresses problems with communication, such as speaking, listening, writing and cognitive (thinking) skills and memory. Swallowing problems are also evaluated and treated by this therapist.
Recreational Therapist, Activity Technician
These individuals teach patients how to continue hobbies and leisure activities after an illness or injury. They may also show patients how to overcome access problems in the community through outings to restaurants, shopping centers and other events.
Social Worker /Case Manager
This individual communicates with the patient and family regarding progress toward goals. He/she coordinates patient services to ensure the patient's needs are met, within the limits of the patient and available resources. He/she communicates the patient's progress to the insurance company, coordinates discharge planning, addresses patient and family concerns and provides community resource information.
Psychologist
Psychologists often help the patient and their families with feelings related to the many life changes associated with illness or injury. Services may include individual, group and family counseling; counseling for alcohol and drug abuse problems; and pain management. |
