About Physiatry

SCOPE of PHYSIATRY PRACTICE

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R)
is often called the quality of life profession
because its aim is to 
enhance patient performance.

The focus is not on one part of the body, but instead on the development of a comprehensive program for putting the pieces of a person’s life back together
– medically, socially, emotionally, and vocationally – after injury or disease. 

PM&R Physicians

Focus treatment on function

Have a broad medical expertise that allows them to treat disabling conditions throughout a person’s lifetime

Diagnose and treat pain as a result of an injury, illness, or disabling condition

Determine and lead a treatment/prevention plan

Treat the whole person, not just the problem area 

PM&R physicians manage issues that span the entire spectrum, from complicated multiple trauma to injury prevention for athletes.

The interdisciplinary medical team includes medical professionals such as neurologists, psychiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, urologists, and non-physician healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, vocational counselors, psychologists and social workers.

The team is different for each patient, and the team’s composition changes during treatment to match the patient’s shifting needs.

By providing an appropriate treatment plan,
PM&R physicians help patients stay as
active as possible at any age.

BENEFITS TO CENTERS

Increasing Patient Education and Satisfaction

Controlling Hospital Re-Admissions
and Unsafe Discharges

Providing a Specialty Physician Program
Maximizing Functional Outcomes

Increasing Physician Presence, Communication,
and Documentation

Decreasing Patient/Resident Pain, Including
Titrating Opioid Use

Partnering and Supporting Center Marketing Strategies

Specialty consultant at no cost to the center

IMPROVING CLINICAL & OPERATIONAL OUTCOMES

We can help patients discharge quicker and safer – adding a layer of clinical oversight and capabilities that most SNFs and their patients have been underserved historically.

Clinical documentation to help support therapy,
RAC Audits and federal surveys

Improve therapy outcomes by providing additional oversight of patient progress, reducing pain and motivating patients and their families

Extension or reduction of length of stay when necessary based on facility and patient preferences

Screenings for assisted living and long-term care residents who may benefit from Medicare Part B therapy services•Support to the primary care team including attending physician, therapy, nursing and administration•Provide in-service education for primary care team

Act as a liaison between Orthopedic surgeons, therapists, nurses and patients