Joint Surgery
Our hospitals have received some of the highest marks in the country for knee, hip, shoulder and other joint care provided to our patients. That is a difference that demonstrates better outcomes and fewer complications for patients across Northwest Indiana undergoing joint surgery at the hospitals of Community Healthcare System.
Our Joint Academy programs begin with each patient being fully educated about his or her procedure prior to surgery and continues with inpatient group therapy, followed by education and readiness for recovery at home. Each patient has a specialized dedicated team of orthopedic professionals.
Board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic physicians, specially trained orthopedic nursing staff and surgical technicians support our patients. After discharge, patients continue therapy at the hospitals’ outpatient rehabilitation locations, where they receive education and follow up from certified physical therapists, occupational therapists and social workers.
Continuum of care include:
- Board-certified and/or fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, licensed nurses and therapists, who specialize in the care of joint replacement patients
- A dedicated Joint Care team member who facilitates patient care from the pre-operative phase through discharge and recovery
- Education of family and friends to enable them to participate as coaches in the recovery process
- A patient guidebook that includes information on the plan of care from six weeks prior to surgery through discharge and outpatient recovery
- A pre-operative orientation class for the patient and coach to help them feel confident in what to expect before, during and after surgery
- Emphasis on group activities and therapies as well as an individualized plan of care
- Group social time and lunches with other patients
- Associated after-care program and follow-up
- Reunion luncheons for former patients and their coaches
- Public education seminars about hip, knee, shoulder, hand and elbow conditions and the latest in related technology and treatments
- Educational and motivational tools, such as a tracking board for walking progress, and newsletters for the patients and family members
