Frequently Asked Questions

An informed decision is the best decision. There are several questions you should ask when choosing a rehabilitation facility.

1. Does the facility have a solid history providing rehabilitation services to people with disabilities?
2. Are the rehabilitation programs accredited by the highly respected Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)?
3. Are the attending physicians in the program physiatrists – specialists trained and board-certified in the practice of rehabilitation medicine?
4. Does the program include rehabilitation services for children?
5. Does the facility’s nursing staff include certified registered rehabilitation nurses (CRRNs)?
6. Does the program have a strong family component?
7. How are the rehabilitation services provided?
8. Does the program offer a wide range of services and resources?

1. Does the facility have a solid history providing rehabilitation services to people with disabilities?
   Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Centert at SMDC Medical Center is a pioneer in the region, providing comprehensive medical rehabilitation services for nearly 40 years.
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2. Are the rehabilitation programs accredited by the highly respected Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)?
   Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center at SMDC Medical Center has nine CARF-accredited programs:
   • Comprehensive medical rehabilitation (Inpatient)
   • Brain Injury, both inpatient and outpatient, for adults, adolescents and children
   • Spinal Cord System of Care for adults, adolescents and children
   • Pediatric Family Centered Care (Inpatient)
   • Stroke Specialty Program
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3. Are the attending physicians in the program physiatrists – specialists trained and board-certified in the practice of rehabilitation medicine?
   Physicians who work in our adult programs are all board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Our physicians specialize in rehabilitation and the coordination of care of people who need inpatient rehabilitation. The director of our Spinal Cord System of Care program is board-certified in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine. Our pediatric program is led by an experienced Pediatric Neurologist.
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4. Does the program include rehabilitation services for children?
   Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center at SMDC Medical Center has specialized pediatric rehabilitation services, treating children with neurological and orthopedic conditions, and managing spasticity associated with these impairments.
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5. Does the facility’s nursing staff include certified registered rehabilitation nurses (CRRNs)?
   Yes, many of our rehabilitation nurses are certified registered rehabilitation nurses who have received specialized training and extensive experience.
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6. Does the program have a strong family component?
   We encourage family involvement through participation in patient therapies and care conferences. Families may room with the patient, when possible, and most pets can visit, too. Our home-like environment, with community dining areas and lounges, encourages socialization and family interaction.
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7. How are the rehabilitation services provided?
   In the program at Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center at SMDC Medical Center:
   • All services are offered on one floor
   • Patient care is provided from an interdisciplinary team.
   • Apartment settings are available, creating an environment similar to home.
   • Community outings allow patients to practice social or cognitive skills necessary for community re-entry.
   • Therapeutic passes enable the team to assist patients in adapting to challenges at home.
   • Referrals to support groups and other agencies foster a smooth transition back into the community.
   • Recreation therapy specialists assist patients in adapting activities enjoyed prior to injury. We also have an accessible outdoor garden.
   • Home assessments are offered for accessibility and modification needs.
   • Peer visits bring in someone who has experienced a similar event and now lives independently in the community
   For more details on our programs, click here.
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8. Does the program offer a wide range of services and resources?
    
   Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center at SMDC Medical Center offers the largest and most comprehensive rehabilitation program north of the Twin Cities. Learn more about our programs, our facilities and our staff. 
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Be Informed
The more you know about your medical condition and the rehabilitation programs available, the better you will feel about choosing your rehabilitation center. If you have questions regarding rehabilitation services, please call Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center at SMDC Medical Center at (218) 786-2850 or (800) 225-7723. TTY at (218) 720-1950. Or e-mail rehabinfo@smdc.org.