“State-of-the-art, straight from the heart” – these are the words used to describe Providence Care Hospital by a patient on one of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation units. This particular patient had undergone a double-knee replacement and came to Providence Care Hospital for rehabilitation; however, his journey to recovery was shorter than you might anticipate. From the day of his surgery to the day of his discharge, this gentleman spent a total of only 11 days in hospital. Did we mention that he had a double-knee replacement?
“You come here because you need help” said the patient on his last day at Providence Care Hospital. Help is what he got. When asked how he achieved such an incredible feat, he said “I had a plan”. When he knew that he would be undergoing a double-knee replacement he worked to ensure that he was ready for the road to recovery. Prior to his surgery he began working out to strengthen his upper body; he said that he knew he was going to need this strength in the coming weeks.
After speaking with this gentleman for no more than an hour, it was clear to see why he was so successful with his recovery. “I’m here to get better”, he said. He spoke to the dedication and knowledge of each staff member that he worked with and said “I don’t see how you could come here and not be affected by the people.” He spoke of the dignity and respect with which he was treated and how “everyone was on the same team”, including himself. This patient’s journey to recovery exemplifies patient- and family-centered care. This gentleman ensured he was informed about the procedure before his surgery and that he was an active member of his care team during his time at Providence Care Hospital. When discussing what comes next, he said he continues to have a plan for his recovery moving forward. This gentleman, who is also an artist and a poet said he plans to have a gallery show.
Reflecting on his short stay at Providence Care Hospital he said “the heart of the people here has really affected me”.
