Choosing a Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center

Three women are engaged in a therapeutic exercise with colorful plastic cups. The woman in the middle is stacking them, assisted by a woman in a pink shirt and another woman smiling beside her. A vibrant painting hangs on the wall behind them.

How to compare brain injury rehabilitation programs?

Choosing a rehabilitation facility for recovery from a brain injury is one of the most important decisions you will make. It’s crucial to be confident about the quality of care you or a loved one will receive. At Shepherd Center, we want to help you make an informed decision by providing some important criteria and questions to consider when selecting a facility.

While the final decision will depend on individual circumstances, such as insurance and location, every rehabilitation program has features you can evaluate to determine the best fit for your needs.

Important criteria for selecting a facility

When comparing rehabilitation facilities, it’s best to look at a few options before making your decision. Here are some key factors and questions to help guide your choice.

Look for a specialized comprehensive program that is experienced caring for your type of injury for your age group.

Questions to ask

  • How many patients are admitted to the acquired brain injury rehabilitation program each year?
  • How many patients has the facility treated with injuries similar to yours?
  • Does the hospital specialize in acquired brain injury rehabilitation services, or is it one of many services offered?
  • Is the facility equipped to manage life-threatening emergencies on-site?
  • Are patients able to begin rehabilitation even if they have significant medical problems?
  • Does the facility offer services for every stage of recovery, including intensive care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient services?

Questions to ask

  • How often and for how long each day do patients receive treatment from specialists like physical and speech therapists?
  • Are there activities planned for patients on weekends and evenings?
  • Does the facility have an inpatient program for those in a minimally conscious state?
  • Does the facility have full-time clinical educators to ensure staff development and training?

Look for a program with a variety of integrated supportive care services for patients and families going through a significant life event.

Questions to ask

  • What types of coping and support services are available?
    • Peer support?
    • Individual and group therapy?
    • Neuropsychology?
    • Family counseling?
    • Vocational counseling?

Look for a program that meets the needs of both patients and their families.

Questions to ask

  • Are family members encouraged to participate in rehabilitation?
  • Does the facility have a family education program to prepare caregivers for their role in the recovery process?
  • Are there free or low-cost living arrangements for family members participating in training?
  • What type of support is offered after discharge?

Look for a program with engaged staff that has a track record of success in returning patients to healthy lives with purpose, and as much independence as possible.

Questions to ask

  • What percentage of patients return to their home or community rather than long-term care facilities?
  • How does that compare to other brain injury treatment centers?
  • What is the facility’s average functional improvement measure (FIM) score for patients with brain injuries?
  • What is the average length of stay for patients with injuries similar to yours?

Questions to ask

  • Are staff members helpful and friendly when information is requested?
  • Are tours of the facility offered?
  • What is the overall atmosphere like?
  • Is there an opportunity to speak with current patients or their families? Were they satisfied with their experience?

Download our center comparison worksheet

To help you compare and contrast up to three rehabilitation facilities, we offer a worksheet titled “Questions to Ask When Choosing a Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program.” This tool is designed to assist you in evaluating the important factors that will help determine the best facility for your care.

Download Brain Injury Program Guide (PDF)

Why choose Shepherd Center for brain injury rehabilitation?

Unmatched expertise in brain injury care 

We are a leader in brain injury rehabilitation, offering a comprehensive approach that is uniquely tailored to each patient. With cutting-edge technology and a team of highly trained specialists, we help patients maximize their recovery potential and improve their quality of life.

Specialized services and facilities 

Our inpatient rehabilitation program is designed specifically for people with brain injury, featuring advanced therapies, medical management, and innovative treatment options to address the complexities of brain injuries.

Multidisciplinary team approach 

You’re supported by a dedicated team of professionals — including physicians, therapists, nurses, and psychologists — who work together to create personalized care plans. This collaborative approach ensures holistic treatment, addressing both your physical and emotional needs.

Continuum of care and lifelong support 

Recovery doesn’t stop when you leave Shepherd Center. We provide a seamless continuum of care, including transitional services, outpatient therapy, and community reintegration programs. Our ongoing support helps patients adapt to life after rehabilitation with confidence and independence.

Shepherd Center is worth the trip

While other facilities may be closer, few match Shepherd Center’s level of specialization and expertise in brain injury rehabilitation. We’re proud to be a leader in helping patients recover, rebuild, and reclaim their lives after injury.

Our compassionate care, innovative therapies, and commitment to your long-term success make us the clear choice for brain injury rehabilitation. Choosing Shepherd Center means choosing a brighter future, no matter where you’re coming from.

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