Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation?
Generally when we talk about inpatient services, we are referring to those a patient receives during a stay in a hospital. Outpatient services are those health care services you receive when you are not an admitted hospital patient, such as physician services, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
To be considered for inpatient rehabilitation, the patient must be able to tolerate and benefit from three hours of a combination of skilled therapies – physical, occupational, and speech therapies – throughout each day. The patient must require daily rehabilitation nursing and physician care, be medically stable, and have functional deficits or needs that can be addressed through rehabilitation techniques. The patient must be anticipated to make progress towards functional goals within a reasonable time frame.
How do I know if my family member is appropriate for inpatient rehabilitation?
To be eligible for inpatient rehabilitation at the UPMC Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (IRR), a physician must diagnose a patient with a condition requiring an acute rehabilitation program. The patient must be medically stable, need the services provided in inpatient rehabilitation, and be able to benefit from three hours of therapy each day.
How does the staff know my individual rehabilitation goals?
Either prior to admission or at the time of admission, the IRR staff talks with patients and their families about rehabilitation goals and provides necessary information to answer questions. During your initial assessment and throughout your rehab stay, your treatment team will discuss with you your goals, progress toward the goals and any barriers to achieving your goals.
How do I receive services as an outpatient?
Call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for services by a physician from the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Call the Centers for Rehab Services at 1-888-723-4CRS (4277) for outpatient physical and occupational therapy services.
What diagnoses do you treat for outpatients?
Physiatrists treat a wide range of diseases and conditions including brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, musculoskeletal disorders, adult spina bifida, amputation, joint replacement, lower back pain, arthritis, work injuries, pelvic pain, pre and postpartum pain, sports-related injuries, and overuse injuries. Physical, occupational, and speech therapists also treat many conditions and injuries on an outpatient basis including: arthritis, back pain, balance disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome, facial and jaw pain, hand injuries, inner ear problems, knee and leg injuries or pain, lymphedema, neurology disorders, shoulder or neck pain, speech disorders, sports-related injuries, swallowing disorders, and work-related injuries.
What types of insurance do you accept?
The IRR accepts insurance from many companies. Your admissions representative or liaison can assist with insurance questions. You also can call 1-877-AT-REHAB (28-73422) for more information.
Can I get an in-person tour of an IRR facility?
Yes, the IRR staff gladly gives tours to prospective patients and their families or health care providers. To arrange a tour, call 1-877-AT-REHAB (28-73422) or talk to your admissions representative or liaison.
What if I need emergency or specialty medical care while I am at the IRR?
As part of UPMC, patients at the IRR have access to top specialists in a variety of specialty areas. IRR facilities are located in acute hospitals, which provide patients access to medical services for routine matters and emergency situations.
Can family members visit me during my stay?
Yes. Family members and friends are encouraged to visit. During rehabilitation, you will work with a treatment team who will help you to reach your rehabilitation goals. Along with you, your family members or friends are an important part of this team. Throughout your rehab stay – and especially close to discharge – your family and friends will be encouraged to visit in order to participate in family training so they will be prepared to help you after discharge.
What is a physiatrist?
A physiatrist is a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Physiatrists look at a patient holistically to restore function, overcome physical limitations, and prevent impairment. They diagnose and treat conditions using rehabilitation techniques, medical management, and pharmacotherapy.
How often will a physician see me?
How often a physician will see you depends on your individual circumstances. You generally will be seen by a physician at least daily if you are in inpatient rehabilitation.
How much therapy will I receive each day?
Your treatment plan is tailored specifically for you by your patient care team. In general, patients at UPMC’S IRR will receive three hours of rehabilitation per day at least 5 days a week. In order to be prepared for discharge, patients are expected to use the skills learned in therapy throughout the rest of their day.
How do I get referred to UPMC’s IRR?
If your physician or therapists think that you need inpatient rehabilitation, they will consult a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician (physiatrist) and /or the rehab liaison.
They will review your medical status and your progress in therapies. If your needs are consistent with the criteria for acute inpatient rehabilitation, the rehab liaison will work with you to provide additional education and identify possible facilities. You may also call 1-877-AT-REHAB (28-73422)
What kind of clothing should I pack for my stay?
Please visit the Preparing for a Stay page for a complete list of items to bring.
Where can I find directions to one of the IRR locations?
Directions for each IRR facility are available on the Locations and Directions page.