NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ — Science Daily has recently released an article that explains the value of physical therapy when performed in the intensive care unit (ICU). While the use of physical therapy at such an early stage in a patient’s recovery has not always been accepted, the article asserts that researchers from Johns Hopkins have revealed that the ability to reduce a patient’s hospital stay and assist them in leaving the ICU faster outweigh the costs that such therapy may incur. Sherrie Glasser-Mayrsohn, physical therapy professional, agrees that the earlier a patient can begin physical therapy the better their outcomes.
According to the article, a team of researchers at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine has uncovered evidence that early rehab can improve patient outcomes and, ultimately, reduce the expenses that hospitals generate while treating patients who are in the ICU—savings that can be passed on to patients and their insurance companies.
Dale M. Needham , M.D., Ph.D., who is the senior author on the study, explains: “The evidence is growing that providing early physical and occupational therapy for intensive care patients—even when they are on life support—leads to better outcomes. Patients are stronger and more able to care for themselves when they are discharged […] However, our study shows that a relatively low investment up front can produce a significant overall reduction in the costs of hospital care for these patients. Such programs are an example of how we can save money and improve care at the same time.”
