Work of a rehabilitation medicine service

The results of the work of the Edinburgh Rehabilitation Medicine Service in one year were evaluated. Over 1400 new patients were seen, of whom 525 were in hospital at the time. Patients most often referred were those who had had cardiovascular accidents, back pain, lower limb amputations, and head injuries and those convalescing after heart surgery. Most patients had several problems. Many were referred so that they could obtain wheelchairs or other appliances, or for assessment of their ability to drive. Only 3% of the referrals were considered inappropriate. Of the inpatients, 455 (87%) returned home after treatment, but 13 (2%) did not respond satisfactorily to rehabilitation. Twelve per cent (18% of the inpatients) were referred from other health boards, suggesting a need for similar facilities elsewhere.