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October is National Physical Therapy Month
After suffering hip trauma in a car accident last January, William Janis, 63, is on the mend, thanks to the expertise of BWH’s physical therapists.
Janis underwent a hip replacement after the accident and, during the following three months, suffered from recurring hip dislocations. Both inpatient and outpatient physical therapists worked together to coordinate his treatment and ensure a seamless recovery.
This collaborative approach to patient care is part of a new initiative launched by Physical Therapy and Trauma Service. The joint performance improvement project aims to increase communication between surgeons, inpatient and outpatient physical therapists. Now, physical therapists intervene in a patient’s recovery sooner after surgery, and surgeons ensure therapists understand the patient’s prognosis and rehabilitation needs. Physical therapist and occupational therapist liaisons then work together to facilitate the transfer of patients between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation at BWH’s main campus and 850 Boylston St.
Already, they have found that early intervention and increased interaction between inpatient and outpatient therapists decreases patient complications and improves overall patient recovery. “By speaking with the inpatient therapists, I get a more comprehensive understanding for what a patient has been through and what still needs to be done,” said Karen Weber, PT, Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, who cared for Janis with Mary Goodwin, PT, Inpatient Rehabilitation Services.
Janis now is back to work and has regained much of his initial mobility. Instead of spending three mornings a week in therapy, he requires only weekly visits, when physical therapists monitor his healing and continue progresssing his strength and balance. “The care I received here you won’t find anywhere else,” Janis said.
“What Can a Physical Therapist Do for Me?” BWH is celebrating National Physical Therapy Month by providing information about the physical therapy services offered to patients and staff. Physical therapists will be outside the Cafeteria Wednesday, Oct. 25, and Friday, Oct. 27, to answer questions. Stop by to fill out a survey and enter a raffle for your chance to win a pedometer.