A Model for Designing a Training Program for Rehabilitation

- Rehabilitation for Improving ADL at Recovery Stage -

Abstract

In Japan, the importance of rehabilitation is increasing as people face the growing risk of disease and injury, with aging society. Along with the amendment of the medical service fee system enforced in April 2006, length of rehabilitation program covered by medical care insurance is limited to 180 days at maximum from onset. On one hand, greater time pressure is imposed on rehabilitation by the medical care insurance scheme, and on the other hand, needs for rehabilitation are ever growing. To address these challenges, it is required to provide rehabilitation services more effectively and efficiently. Rehabilitation services are provided in accordance with a rehabilitation program, which is designed by therapists according to a doctor's prescription. However, a scientific methodology for designing a rehabilitation program has not been established, and it depends on the personal ability of each therapist. In this paper, we aim to establish a methodology for designing a rehabilitation program by visualizing and structuring the thinking process of therapists. We propose a logical model and implementation model, focusing on rehabilitation, which is provided to improve ADL ability of a patient in a hospital at recovery stage. Then, we make a verification to assess the validity of our model, through a workshop, in which therapists designed rehabilitation program for a supposed patient.