Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation

Physiatrist (Fiz-e-at' rist)

The physiatrist is a physician who has been specially trained to treat patients in the rehabilitation phase. He/She is the leader of the health care team that coordinates each patient's care.

The physiatrist will integrate medical treatment and rehabilitation throughout each phase of the program. It is essential that information from all team members (e.g. occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, etc.) be communicated to the physiatrist. The physiatrist will take the lead in directing the patient's care from initial consultation to discharge and follow-up services.