Rehabilitation Services

Newspaper Column

At HSC Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Program, community re-entry activities are an integral part of the total rehabilitation process.

Re-entry excursions are planned for appropriate patients just prior to their discharge home, offering them an opportunity to test their newly acquired skills in a real world environment.

These activities are not only therapeutic, teaching opportunities but are also fun events for patients! Most recently, rehab patient Herman Lawrence was treated to a fishing trip on the Ouachita River. Not only did Lawrence practice techniques and skills learned during his rehabilitation, but also enjoyed one of his favorite pastimes—fishing! Identifying recreational activities for each patient is an important part of a patient’s treatment plan.

When rehab therapists plan a community re-entry trip, goals are set for the patient to include skills in the areas of mobility, self-care, and cognition. For instance, a patient on a fishing excursion might practice ambulating on uneven surfaces and utilize both gross and fine motor skills when casting and reeling. Additionally, the experience allows the patient to practice adaptations to an otherwise unattainable favorite activity.

During the community re-entry event the patient practices coping with real world obstacles. After participating in such an activity, many patients are surprised at how well they managed and feel much more comfortable about their anticipated discharge back home.

Rehab staff always accompanies the patient during re-entry activities. Safety protocols have been established as required. Typically, the hospital van or the SCAT bus provides the transportation for the excursion.

Other community re-entry outings through HSCMC Rehabilitation Program include trips to local stores, restaurants, and services such as the beauty college.

For more information about HSCMC Rehabilitation Program or the community re-entry program, contact Ann Gasper at 501-332-7028.

Ann Gasper is the Marketing Coordinator for the HSCMC Rehabilitation Program located on the first floor of HSC Medical Center.