When Rick Brown first arrived at the LECOM Institute for Successful Aging’s Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit (IRU) after a spinal cord injury, he needed the help of the staff simply to get out of bed.
After a few short weeks of rehabilitation at the IRU, however, Brown was able to begin walking on his own with a cane and return home. In addition to the quality of care he received, the IRU staff also lifted his spirits through their compassion. “Everyone was very positive, attentive, and upbeat,” Brown said. “They told me I would walk out even though I could barely move. I’m very grateful.”
Brown represents one of more than 400 patient success stories for the LECOM Inpatient Rehab Unit, which recently hosted a one-year Anniversary Celebration. Brown, who played the guitar at the celebration, was among a number of former patients to attend.
“We’re very proud of the number of patients we’ve been able to help return home following illness or injury,” said James Lin, DO, Vice President of Senior Services and Adult Living and Director of the LECOM Institute for Successful Aging.
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| Rick Brown was treated at the LECOM Inpatient Rehab Unit for a spinal cord injury. He and his wife, Jane, were among the attendees at the IRU’s one-year anniversary celebration. |
The IRU, located within Millcreek Community Hospital, 5515 Peach St., offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including home evaluations, speech pathology, and occupational and physical therapy, designed to help patients regain independent living skills. The Anniversary Celebration was held in conjunction with National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, which promotes the importance of rehabilitation, highlights the capabilities of those with disabilities, and recognizes the professionals who serve them.
The LECOM IRU, with 14 beds, is the only local rehabilitation facility to offer a full continuum of care for older adults, including acute care, sub-acute care, transitional care, rehabilitation, and long-term care,Dr. Lin said. The IRU also meets or exceeds common national benchmarks related to admissions and discharges and length of stay efficiency, said Shelly Mayes, Director of Therapy Operations.
Its other advantages include 24-7 physician coverage, the availability of therapy services seven days a week, individualized treatment sessions, cardiac monitoring, and a 5-to-1 nurse-to-patient ratio.
In addition, the IRU has been recognized by the NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) program for its commitment to providing quality care.