You or a loved one has recently overcome an illness, surgery or injury and needs the professional, around-the-clock services provided at a rehabilitation center to get back to your normal day-to-day activities. But how do you know which rehabilitation center is the right choice? You may only have a short time to determine which center to choose, so we’ve created this article to help you get a head start.

What is a Rehabilitation Center?

A rehabilitation center is an inpatient facility providing health care and therapy services with the goal of getting people back to their active lifestyle after a health-related issue, such as a surgery, injury or illness. The services provided at a rehabilitation center are meant to improve physical strength and foster independence as people recover. They often provide physical therapy, pain management, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medication management, help with daily activities, health education, guided exercises, and more.

Do Your Research

Start your research with a simple internet search. Many states provide easy-to-access online databases that include customer reviews and inspection results. While some of these databases provide a star rating system, the rating is not a substitute for meeting the staff in person, understanding their services, and checking out the rehabilitation center. Always be sure to look deeper than the star rating. Find out how long the average stay is and about the follow up procedure once a guest returns home.  Proper follow-up procedures can help keep someone from ending up back in the hospital.

Short-Term versus Long-Term Rehab

During your research, you’ll want to find out if the center provides short-term or long-term rehabilitation services. What type of health issue needs to be overcome? Is it a small procedure, or a more advanced medical issue? The seriousness of the overall health issues will determine if short or long-term rehab is needed. Some centers offer both kinds of rehabilitation (such as the Rehab Inn at Wesley Place on Honeysuckle in Dothan, AL), while some only specialize in one.

Staff and Environment

Pay close attention to how the staff interacts with you and other guests of the center. Do they greet you warmly? Are they helpful, friendly, and attentive? Also, pay close attention to the environment. The physical surroundings are often as important as the quality of services provided. Are private suites offered? Is the center clean and odor-free? Is it well lit, easily navigated and comfortable?

Ask Questions and Get Answers

When visiting rehabilitation centers, take the time to talk to staff members. Get all the answers you need to make an informed decision. Does the rehabilitation center honor personal care preferences? How many days a week do they provide rehab services? Who will be notified if care needs change? And you don’t have to limit your questions to those relating to health care. Ask to tour the center, look at residences, try the food, and explore community rooms. Try to see and experience as much of the center as possible during your visit.

Planning for Other Levels of Care

Is it possible that you or your loved one will need to transition to Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing Care after a rehabilitation stay? Rehabilitation centers that also offer other care services on the same campus can be a real plus if you or a loved one needs additional help after rehabilitation. The transition may be easier if you are already familiar with the center and its staff members.

For more information on how to choose the right rehabilitation center, call Wesley Place on Honeysuckle at 334-792-0921.