Acute Rehab to Expand

Northland residents needing inpatient rehabilitation don’t have to travel far, thanks to the recent expansion of North Kansas City Hospital's Acute Rehab Unit, which added 18 patient beds bringing the total to 48 private rooms. It is the largest, most comprehensive acute inpatient rehabilitation facility in the city. “The inpatient acute rehab program is the highest level of rehabilitation care available. I believe that every patient recovering from a serious injury or illness deserves the opportunity to regain function and ease transition back to home,” says Kala Danushkodi, MD, physical medicine and rehabilitation medical director.

“Our program provides a multidisciplinary-based approach to achieve the highest quality rehab outcomes,” she explains. “Additionally, we have a quick and efficient screening process that provides physicians and patients’ families with timely solutions for patient discharge planning.” To accommodate the additional patients, the hospital added a second rehabilitation physician, Mark Killman, MD.

The acute rehab unit helps patients relearn the physical rigors of daily task and provides:

• 1,800 square-foot gym that includes a real-wood front porch and entry
• A second 540 square-foot recreation room
• Nintendo Wii gaming system to increase balance, coordination and visual perception
• Fully functional kitchen
• Two dining rooms
• Washer and dryer
• Grocery store to practice the physical rigors of shopping and money exchange
• Bathtub room
• Care for dialysis, trachea and bariatric patients
• A transitional living apartment

According to Christine Snedden, program director for the Acute Rehabilitation Unit, in addition to its size, the location sets the hospital’s facility apart from others in the area. “Being located inside a hospital gives patients access to care that is needed when it is needed,” she explains. “With close proximity to a full medical staff, we can handle patients with any medical complexity.” Acute Rehab accepts all commercial insurances.

Survivors and Loved Ones Receive Support

NKCH’s Acute Rehabilitation Unit runs a free stroke support group that offers a place for survivors, caregivers and loved ones to share challenges, triumphs and personal experiences. Both inpatient and discharged patients and their supporters may attend. The group is coordinated by Acute Rehabilitation in collaboration with several community resources. The meetings are conveniently located at the hospital.

To learn more, call 816.691.1499