Selecting a Top Medical Rehabilitation Hospital: Credentials Matter

Enhancing the lives of individuals living with a disabling condition or injury is achieved through a combination of highly skilled therapists, physiatrists (a specialized physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation), rehab-trained nurses, advanced equipment, patient education, and dedicated support and resources for families and caregivers. Choosing the right medical rehabilitation hospital can significantly improve a patient’s care, helping them regain independence and return to a home or community-based environment as efficiently and safely as possible.

At Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital, we understand that a patient’s treatment goals upon admission are to achieve functional progress towards their mobility and self care. Our experienced and specialized therapists (including Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists) play a critical role in achieving these outcomes. Each therapist brings a unique set of specialties, certifications, and degrees, allowing us to tailor plans of care to meet the individual needs of every patient.

Our therapy team consists of physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech language pathologists. The requirement for each patient being admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital is at least two of these therapy disciplines. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every patient receives comprehensive rehabilitation specific to their functional challenges.

The Role of Physiatrists in Medical Rehabilitation

A physiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed training in the specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), and may be certified subspecialties such as Brain Injury Medicine, Neuromuscular Medicine, Spinal Cord Injury Medicine, Pain Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, and Sports Medicine. Most Medical Directors at Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital are also board certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR).

In a rehabilitation hospital only (not a rehab center or sub-acute facility as these provide a different level of medical care), the physiatrist sees each patient at least three times per week. These visits are designed to assess patients both medically and functionally. The emphasis is on the interaction between the patient’s medical and functional goals, allowing the physician to modify the course of treatment as needed to maximize the patient’s capacity to benefit from rehabilitation. This ongoing evaluation helps to ensure that progress is both measurable and sustainable, guiding patients toward a successful return to their daily lives.

Credentials Matter: Centers of Excellence

Finding the right care can be a daunting process. To help inform your decision, look for a medical rehabilitation hospital that is accredited and has proven success in helping individuals rebuild after a life-changing condition or injury.

Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital is accredited by the Centers of Excellence in Rehabilitation Services and Stroke Care (CIHQ). These rigorous accreditations reflect the extensive competencies of our highly trained therapy teams of physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and rehab-trained nurses and physicians who help improve quality of life for our patients.

A s part of achieving these designations as centers of excellence, Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital deploys evidence-based therapies, prevention strategies, and functional recovery techniques across all locations. Through dedicated efforts, we have developed Clinical Practice Guidelines, a structured patient education program, and enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration to optimize reintegration into the community. By standardizing best practices, implementing innovative rehabilitation strategies, and coordinating care with the entire care team, we are not just meeting expectations—we are setting new benchmarks in medical rehabilitative care.

A s part of our clinical excellence, many of our therapists have specialty certifications or degrees across our hospitals that provide greater access to individualized rehabilitation services.

Physical Therapists

Physical Therapists (PT) focus on strength, movement, and balance with their patients. The PT has earned Doctorates of Physical Therapy (DPT). They also may have advanced certifications or degrees such as Certified Clinical Vestibular Therapist/ Clinical Vestibular Therapist (CCVT/CVT); Cranio-mandibular Head, Neck, and Facial Pain (CFC); and/or Craniosacral Therapist/Therapy (CST); Diabetic Wound Certified (DWC).

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists (OT) focus on helping patients complete tasks of daily living such as bathing, eating, showering, etc. The OT initially earn a Masters of Occupational Therapy. They may have additional certifications such as Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS); Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES); Certified Hand Therapist (CHT); or Certified Neuro Specialist (CNS).

Speech Language Pathologist

Speech language pathologists (SLP) focus on communication, memory and swallowing functions with their patients. The SLP initially earns a Masters of Speech Language Pathology. They may have additional certifications like BCS-S (Swallowing Disorders) or BCS-F (Fluency and Fluency Disorders)

Nurses

Our registered nurses have specialty rehabilitation competencies and may also have additional degrees such as masters or doctorate prepared as well as a specialty certifications such as Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN).

Ongoing Clinician Training

Every clinician at our hospitals undergoes mandatory education and competency training with skills labs in the applicable specialized areas. Stroke rehabilitation, for instance, involves evidence-based therapies, prevention strategies, and functional recovery techniques. Our clinical team members complete annual competency assessments and hands-on training workshops to help ensure consistent, high-quality care across all hospitals. All licensed clinicians also are required to adhere to mandatory clinical education units according to the state they are licensed.

The rigorous clinical training means that patients receive care from highly trained specialists who are up to date on the latest treatments and strategies in medical rehabilitation. From advanced therapy techniques to innovative approaches in functional outcomes, our clinicians are equipped to guide patients through each stage of their medical rehabilitation journey with confidence and expertise.

Patient Education: A Key to Success

Education is a critical component of the medical rehabilitation process at Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital We believe that empowering patients and their families with knowledge and practical tools is essential for long-term improvement. Each patient receives a personalized education binder designed to guide them through their medical rehabilitation journey.

These binders include:

• A comprehensive guide to the patient’s specific condition and medical rehabilitation plan.

• A checklist to track progress and highlight key milestones.

• Practical tips for daily living, mobility, and self-care after discharge.

• Information on preventing complications and promoting long-term wellness.

By providing patients and their caregivers with a structured learning approach, we support community reintegration and help them return to independent living, work, and daily activities with confidence. Education is not just about understanding medical instructions—it is about equipping patients with the skills and knowledge to maintain their health and independence beyond the hospital walls.

The Impact of Education and Expertise

The benefits of patient education and a credentialed, multidisciplinary team extend far beyond the hospital stay. Patients who are informed about their condition and medical rehabilitation process demonstrate better engagement and lower hospital readmission rates. They are empowered to take an active role in managing their progress, leading to improved outcomes and sustained independence.

Families and caregivers also benefit from education programs, gaining the confidence and resources needed to support their loved ones at home. This collaborative approach drives results beyond the hospital setting and into daily life, fostering safer transitions and more meaningful long-term outcomes.

At Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital, we understand that selecting a top medical rehabilitation hospital is not just about the equipment or amenities—it is about credentials, expertise, and the ability to deliver evidence-based, personalized care. By combining highly trained therapists, skilled physicians, structured education, and rigorous standards of excellence, we create an environment where patients can achieve their best possible outcomes.

Why the Right Medical Rehabilitation Hospital Matters

Choosing the right medical rehabilitation hospital can significantly influence a patient’s outcomes. At Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital, our commitment to credentialed staff, evidence-based practices, and patient-centered education provides every individual the tools, support, and care needed to rebuild with confidence.

Through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative strategies, and structured patient education, we set the standard for medical rehabilitative excellence. Our patients and the caregivers who support them can trust that they are receiving care that is both compassionate and scientifically grounded. With a focus on measurable progress, safety, and empowerment, Shreveport Rehabilitation Hospital remain at the forefront of medical rehabilitation services and stroke care, dedicated to enhancing life for every patient we serve.

If you’re interested in touring one of our hospitals or learning more about our inpatient medical rehabilitation services, contact us today.