“Life…as it should be”
Joint Connection at Thomas Memorial Hospital provides a unique concept in joint replacement surgery and therapy for patients suffering from pain and decreased mobility from an impaired knee or hip.
Because these patients are not sick, the Joint Connection unit works differently from other hospital units. Patients enjoy a sense of community with staff, family members and fellow patients supporting each other every step of the way. They are encouraged to be mobile; to add a few more feet to the walking chart, to grab a quick snack in the kitchenette or to visit with other patients on the unit.
The team approach is significant in perfecting the procedures that lead to shorter stays for our patients. Good communication is key among all parties involved.
Three ways Joint Connection is different
The Joint Connection program provides a designated unit and dedicated staff for total care, with three distinct components to present improved outcomes:
Pre and Post-Op Education
Once a patient is referred to one of our five orthopedic surgeons, he or she will receive a guidebook that outlines the surgery and what to expect afterward. The patient will tour the Joint Connection unit, meet with the staff and learn exercises that will assist in a quicker recovery.
With this method, every patient understands exactly what will happen. Every step of the way – they are encouraged to participate in their own recovery.
Physical Therapy
Formal physical therapy begins the day of surgery, consisting of an exercise and walking program. This allows the patient the possibility of being discharged from the hospital in three days. Within a day of discharge, patients begin their outpatient physical therapy.
A walking chart is posted on the wall in the Joint Connection unit, and patients chart their progress by the number of feet they have walked each day. Good-natured competition challenges patients to keep up with (or surpass) their fellow patients.
To further the community experience, our program also includes a twice-daily group therapy session. Outside of these sessions, patients support each other by comparing stories, chatting during meals and learning from others’ experiences.
Family Participation
As another unique aspect to our program, a family member is designated as the patient’s “Coach.” The “Coach” commits to participating in the patient’s therapy and is taught how to assist him or her at home.
Professional, Supportive Care
Our ability to provide successful outcomes depends on another significant concept – early mobilization. Patients are moving within hours of surgery and outpatient rehabilitation begins the day after discharge.
Early mobilization keeps the joint from stiffening, and relieves the patients of time they may have spent worrying about rehabilitation by stepping right into it.
We also have a dedicated hospitalist to manage patients’ medical needs for those whose physicians are not on staff at Thomas Memorial Hospital. A social service staff member is available to help patients and family members with any discharge needs or other issues.
The unit itself is bright, comfortable and set up to meet the needs of both patient and family.
Developed by Orthopedic Surgeons
Our five orthopedic surgeons practice separately, but have come together to create a valuable resource for patients who need joint replacement surgery. In fact, they have spent two years developing this program.
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Manuel Molina, MD (304) 343-4691 |
John Crompton, MD (304) 343-4691 |
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Bruce Haupt, MD (304) 766-7374 |
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To refer a patient, or for more information, contact any of the physicians listed above, or call the Joint Connection program, (304) 766-5444.
Joint Connection – dedicated to helping patients get back to life…as it should be.
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