Fredda Young of Flower Mound was the first patient treated at Medical Center of Lewisville’s new Rehabilitation Institute.

Young had been hospitalized for pneumonia in mid-May. The lengthy recovery time weakened her and she required inpatient rehabilitation to be able to walk again.

The 18-bed comprehensive medical inpatient rehabilitation unit at Medical Center of Lewisville opened on June 1, and Young was transferred to the facility the day it opened.

“I’ve been in other facilities before but this one is better,” she said. “It seems more organized and well thought out. The greenery in the courtyard area shows good planning.”

In addition to the aesthetics, the facility includes unique features such as a rehabilitation gym, a dining/activity room and a simulation suite – all designed to help restore independence to patients.

The average patient stay is 12 days. Young was on the unit 13 days before being discharged to home. She was the first patient to be discharged from the facility.

The Rehabilitation Institute delivers care based on an interdisciplinary team approach. This means that all members of the treatment team are equally responsible for the patient’s overall improvement in every aspect of their care. This team works together with the patient and family members to assess needs and determine the most appropriate individualized treatment plan. The goal is to help the patient become as independent as possible in the activities of daily living, including mobility and other functional skills, and to facilitate re-entry into the home and community.

Young was very complimentary of the team that attended to her during her stay. Dr. Arvind Peddada, medical director for the Rehabilitation Institute, “spoke to me in a way that I could understand without the usual medical jargon.” She was also pleased with the nursing and support staff that provided care during her stay. “Everyone was so nice. The nurses were patient and kind and gave me pats on the back.”

Adults age 55 and over represent the fastest growing age segment in Lewisville and the surrounding areas, according to the hospital.

Medical Center of Lewisville’s Rehabilitation Institute provides comprehensive physical rehabilitation services, including nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and more. Collaborative physician services include physical medicine and rehabilitation services to best treat each patient.

Admission to the Rehabilitation Institute is based upon the individual’s demonstrated inability to perform self-care or mobility activities, and upon a reasonable expectation that the patient can increase his or her ability to function independently. There also must be a demonstrated need of medical necessity. Patients may be referred by physicians, discharge planners, health professionals, third-party payers, social service professionals, family, friends or self.

For more information, visit www.lewisvillemedical.com or call 972-420-1005.