Chamber learns about rehab services

Hidden between Lakeshore Drive and Highway 31 sits a rehabilitation hospital that has served the community for decades. HealthSouth’s Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital has 100 acute care beds as well as outpatient services designed for patients to return to active and independent lifestyles.

Kathy McKerley addressed the Homewood Chamber of Commerce on May 19 to paint a picture of the hospital’s work. Lakeshore CEO Vickie Demers was originally scheduled to speak but was unable to due to laryngitis.

The hospital was founded in 1925, started rehabilitation services in 1972 and was bought by HealthSouth in 1994. It now offers physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to patients through a multidisciplinary team. Patients must receive a minimum of three hours of therapy a day and also have frequent physician visits.

Seventy-five percent of patients are discharged to go home, and the average length of stay is 12-14 days. Typical patients have had a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputation, hip fracture, neurological disorder, neuropathy, pulmonary issues, cardiac issues or wound care. In the realm of outpatient services, they also offer a BIG program for patients with Alzheimer’s and lymphedema services.

McKerley also recognized how acute rehabilitation is particularly technology driven and how the hospital partners with the Lakeshore Foundation next door to transition patients back into the community. They also have a music therapist who works with pulmonary and neurological patients.

In 2016, Lakeshore is planning to begin a renovation project that will add a patient wing, renovate rooms and clinical areas, and enhance the front entrance. McKerley said she is particularly looking forward to this.

The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will hold its June Membership Luncheon June 16 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Club. Samford University Head Football Coach Chris Hatcher will speak. For tickets or more information, visit homewoodchamber.org.