Implementing a back-to-rehab day

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Patient Experience Research
• Healthcare Program Evaluation

Background:

• Acute inpatient rehabilitation facilities aim to maximize patient functional recovery.
• Post-discharge follow-up is crucial for assessing long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction.
• Engaging former patients can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the planning and implementation of a "Back-to-Rehab Day" event.
• To facilitate former patient engagement with their treating teams.
• To gather data on treatment satisfaction and functional gains post-discharge.

Main Methods:

• Organizing a return event for former patients at an acute inpatient rehabilitation facility.
• Conducting follow-up interviews with former patients.
• Collecting data on patient-reported treatment satisfaction.
• Measuring functional gains achieved since discharge.

Main Results:

• Back-to-Rehab Days provide a platform for former patients to reconnect with their care teams.
• The events facilitate the collection of valuable data on patient satisfaction and functional progress.
• Both staff and former patients reported rewarding and educational experiences.

Conclusions:

• "Back-to-Rehab Days" are a successful model for post-discharge follow-up in acute inpatient rehabilitation.
• These events enhance patient engagement and provide crucial outcome data.
• The initiative offers mutual benefits for patients, families, and healthcare providers.