Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Minnesota

Integrated Team

Teamwork, which enhances patient care and the patient experience, has been the cornerstone of Mayo Clinic's practice since its beginning in the late 1800s. Mayo recognizes that excellence in health care is dependent upon the shared knowledge, shared expertise and cooperation of caring, supportive medical staff and support staff.

Mayo Clinic's Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is committed to providing patient care through teamwork. Throughout their care at Mayo, patients receive the attention and care of a closely coordinated group of rehabilitation specialists, each of whom brings a unique expertise to the team. This team approach to medicine ensures a timely and effective recovery process.

Members of the health care team may include the following:

• Patients and their families are important members of the health care team. By working as a team, patients, their families and Mayo staff can more effectively address patient needs.
  
  
• Physiatrists (rehabilitation physicians) are responsible for the patient's overall medical care, and for the coordination of therapies and services provided by the rehabilitation team. Mayo Clinic's physiatrists have all completed a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and are certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
  
  
• Physical therapists evaluate patients' physical abilities and develop treatment programs to help patients maximize their mobility through exercise and training.
  
  
• Occupational therapists assist patients in developing the functional abilities necessary for daily life. They evaluate patients' ability and develop treatment programs to help patients achieve a maximum level of independence.
  
  
• Recreational therapists assist patients in developing the skills needed to return to a satisfying lifestyle. By assessing leisure needs and interests and developing treatment programs, they help patients renew previous hobbies and activities. They also help patients develop new skills and interests, socialize with others and become involved in the community again.
  
  
• Rehabilitation nurses not only care for patients, but also teach patients, helping them to practice the techniques and skills learned in therapy sessions. Among the nursing staff available to assist patients are registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient care assistants and, at times, nursing students.
  
  
• Psychologists support a patient's progress by working with the patient, the patient's family and other members of the rehabilitation team. If needed, they provide psychological testing and individualized and family counseling. Counseling topics may include adjustments to disability, sexuality, and vocational evaluation and planning.
  
  
• Speech-language pathologists evaluate a patient's speech and language abilities. Speech pathologists assist with improving aspects of speech and language, conversation skills and thinking skills necessary for communications. When necessary, they also help patients develop alternative methods of communication.
  
  
• Registered dietitians regularly visit with patients and other members of the medical team to assist in the selection of a healthful diet and to discuss any special dietary restrictions. Dietitians also are available to visit with family members about a patient's diet.
  
  
• Medical social workers will assist patients and their family members with a variety of concerns associated with illness or disability. Social workers counsel patients and family members, provide emotional support and offer information about economic resources and community agencies. They also help patients make arrangements to leave the hospital and find follow-up care after discharge.
  
  
• Chaplains also are available to help patients and their family members deal with the stresses associated with a disabling illness or traumatic injury. Chaplains identify and support the spiritual, religious and emotional needs of patients and their families. An integral part of the team, they are available 24 hours a day.