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Integrated Patient Care Team
Many skilled clinicians provide specialized care at the UPMC Institute for Rehabilitation and Research. These individuals come together to form an integrated patient care team focused on delivering excellent rehabilitative care and inspiring research.
Members of the integrated patient care team include:
The physiatrist
The physiatrists, physicians certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, guide the team in your treatment and care. They look at the whole patient and diagnose and treat conditions using rehabilitation techniques, medical management, and pharmacotherapy. They work with the team to restore function and overcome physical limitations that a patient may have after a brain, spinal cord, or other injury.
The rehabilitation nurse
One of the most visible people in the patient care team is the rehabilitation nurse. This nurse works with each member of the team to make sure that your day-to-day needs are met. They interact with family and friends to further involvement and cooperation, and will help you put all of the pieces of your care together and apply what you are learning to your daily activities.
The physical therapist
Physical therapists work with patients to improve function and mobility. Physical therapists use therapeutic exercise, mobility devices, techniques for pain relief, and advanced equipment to help you be as independent as possible. You may hear a physical therapist referred to as a PT.
The speech-language pathologist
Your speech-language pathologist – who also may be referred to as an SLP – focuses on communication abilities. Speech-language pathologists will work on retraining cognitive functions like memory, attention, and language and may help treat swallowing disorders. Specific treatment tools with a speech-language pathologist can involve logbooks, calendars, or other communication and cognitive devices.
The occupational therapist
Occupational therapists will work with you on getting back the skills and abilities that you need for daily living. These activities can include eating, getting dressed, or preparing a meal. Occupational therapists provide patients with assistive devices and may offer adaptive solutions when creative plans are needed. These solutions may include orthotics, tools that help grab or reach for items, splints, or new methods to help you do familiar tasks. You may hear an occupational therapist referred to as an OT.
Family and friends
Your family members and friends play an important role in the patient care team. They also will receive education about helping your recovery and making it easier for you to come home. Including family and friends completes the continuum of care to help you live as safely and independently as possible.