WELCOME!
On behalf of our entire staff, welcome to the Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine at Bethesda Memorial Hospital. Our team of physicians, nurses, physical, occupational and speech therapists, and other healthcare professionals are dedicated to helping each patient achieve their optimum level of wellness, independence and quality of life. Family members are also a vital part of our rehabilitation team.

Our Programs

• A hospital-based, comprehensive rehabilitation program that offers acute inpatient rehabilitation services.
• A full complement of physical, speech, respiratory, occupational and supportive therapy programs provided by licensed therapists and social workers.
• A dedicated program for the care of the adult patient who is facing an acute or chronic illness, an intermediate injury or disability.
• Daily programs for patients facilitated by a licensed recreation therapist.
• A registered dietitian who provides nutritional information and recommendations regarding specific dietary needs.
• A licensed psychologist who provides specialized testing, as well as individual and family psychotherapy.
• Specialized neurologic and orthopedic programs.

Features and Amenities

• 26 private rooms and one ocean-view, semi-private room
• A spacious activity room with large-screen TV and comfortable sitting areas
• Family-oriented activities designed to involve family members in their loved ones’ recovery
• Simulated transportation vehicle to promote independence
• Specially designed, adaptive aids to promote dexterity and full range of motion
• A state-of-the-art “transitional apartment,” which helps patients regain their independent, daily living skills by providing a simulated home environment, including a kitchen, a laundry area and a living room.

The Medical Director
The Medical Director of the Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine is a Board-certified specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation who oversees each patient’s care. This physician works with the patient, their treatment team and their family to set goals and plan a timely discharge. Other physicians will be involved as the patient’s condition requires.

The Nursing Staff
Cornell Institute’s nursing staff is comprised of Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Patient Care Associates (PCAs) who have extensive rehabilitation experience. Working with our therapists, these individuals help our patients to regain their independence.

Admissions Coordinator
The admissions coordinator will ensure each patient’s eligibility to use the Cornell Institute and will work with the patient’s case manager regarding plans for discharge. These individuals are always available for any questions that patients may have during their stay.

Case Manager
In an effort to provide support through the patient’s rehabilitation, a case manager will be assigned to work with each patient, their family and other rehabilitation team members. The case manager works with Medicare and/or the patient’s insurance company to arrange for any special equipment, adaptive devices or assistance required upon discharge. The case manager also guides the family through the discharge planning process.

A Team Approach to Therapy
Whether it is a serious injury or a life-threatening illness, our team of licensed therapists can help each patient on the road to recovery. The patient’s team of caregivers, including the Medical Director, the patient’s physician, therapists, nutritionists and case worker, will meet each week to discuss the patient’s treatment goals and review their progress.

Neurological Rehabilitation
For individuals who have experienced a stroke or other neurological disorder, our team will develop an individualized exercise and educational program tailored to meet their needs. Our goal is to help patients regain their independence with activities of daily living.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation  
Whether it’s a hip fracture, multiple fractures or a spinal cord injury, Bethesda’s therapists provide our patients with exercises and skills that will allow them to improve their quality of life.
 
Speech, Language and Communication
Helping patients regain their abilities to communicate with their families and the world around them is a vital step in the recovery process, following a serious illness or acquired disability. Our therapists work with patients one-on-one to help them regain speech, language and critical thinking skills necessary for daily living.

Nutrition 
The Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine provides its patients with dining facilities and meals designed by registered dietitians especially for each patient. All meals are served in the Institute’s spacious dining room, which offers patients an opportunity to socialize with staff and fellow patients, as they enjoy daily selections prepared by the hospital’s chefs.

Coverage
The Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine accepts traditional insurance, Medicare, more than 100 managed care plans, and Medicaid.

During the Patient's Stay
Because we want to help our patients return to their normal activities of daily living, patients should wear comfortable clothing and sneakers during their stay. Patients will participate in 3 hours of therapy Monday through Friday and 1.5  hours of therapy on Saturday and Sunday. As part of their therapy, patients will be encouraged to participate in a full day of activities that include: exercising in the gym, enjoying meals in the dining room and socializing with fellow patients in the activity room and TV room.
 
Continuing Your Therapy As an Outpatient
When inpatient rehabilitation is no longer required, the patient’s physician and rehabilitation team may recommend that therapy be continued in an outpatient setting.  Bethesda Outpatient Rehabilitation   is here to help patients make a smooth transition back to daily life by offering four convenient locations to help them continue their recovery. Your case manager can assist you as your physician prescribes.

For more information about Bethesda’s Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine, please call us at (561) 292-4778.