Understanding Rehab Facilities: Finding the Right Fit for Your Recovery

By: Dr. Francisco Sesatty, DHR Health Physiatrist
2821 Michelangelo Drive Suite 201 Edinburg, TX 78539
To schedule an appointment, call (956) 362-6075
To learn more about rehabilitation services at DHR Health, visit https://www.dhrhealth.com/services/rehabilitation-hospital/

Recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery can be challenging, and finding the right rehabilitation setting is important. There are different types of rehab facilities, and each serves a unique purpose. Knowing the differences can help you make the best choice for your recovery. 

Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs)- If you have a serious condition like a stroke, brain injury, or major surgery, IRFs provide intensive rehabilitation with hospital-level care, including daily physician supervision and 24/7 nursing care. Stays typically last 1-3 weeks, with patients receiving at least three hours of therapy daily under a PM&R physician’s oversight. An interdisciplinary team (physician, PT, OT, speech therapy, dietitian, rehab nurse, and case manager) meets weekly to assess progress and create personalized plans. The goal is to help you regain independence and achieve a safe discharge home.   

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs)- Sometimes, you may not need the intense therapy provided at an IRF or are unable to tolerate intensive rehab for medical reasons, but you still require ongoing medical care and have a decline in your function. Skilled nursing facilities offer rehab at a slower pace and include 24/7 nursing care and medical supervision. You will have less than three hours of therapy a day, and general daily nursing care to focus on slow and steady progress. It’s a good option if you need more time to recover but aren’t ready to go home yet. 

Long-Term Acute Care Hospitals (LTACHs)- If your medical needs are more complex, such as needing ventilator support, long term IV antibiotics or ongoing complex wound care, you might be in an LTACH. These hospitals focus on managing chronic but severe conditions while also offering some slow pace rehab to help you start recover some of your function back. 

Outpatient Rehabilitation- If you’re well enough to live at home but still need therapy, outpatient rehab is a great option. You’ll visit a clinic a few times a week for targeted therapy sessions, working on strength, mobility, or pain management. It’s flexible and designed to fit into your routine. Specialized therapists are usually available to care for your functional deficits, several equipment, and technology will be used to help you regain your independence.  

Home Health Rehabilitation- Sometimes, the best place to recover is right at home. If it’s hard for you to travel, therapists can come to your house to help you with exercises and safety tips. It’s usually short-term but can make a big difference in helping you stay independent.  

Finding the Right Fit 

Choosing the right rehab facility depends on your medical needs and how much help you require. Talk to your healthcare provider to figure out which setting is best for your recovery. Getting the right care can make all the difference in getting back to your normal life. 

About Dr. Francisco Sesatty 

Sesatty is double board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation as well as brain injury medicine. He specializes in treating physical impairments from brain, spinal cord, nerve, bone, joint, ligament, tendon, or muscle injuries. His personalized approach focuses on each patient’s unique needs to support recovery and well-being.  

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