RML Specialty Hospital Offers Patient and Family Relations Team

Leaving a hospital ICU and entering a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital can be stressful, even if the patient is “out of the woods” and improving.  Most patients and family members have questions and concerns about the transition and the plan of care.

At RML Specialty Hospital, the Patient and Family Relations Care Team consist of Psychologists, Chaplains and Patient Ambassadors.  The team works together to assist the patients and families through the emotional process of a hospitalization, to provide comfort and to help alleviate the anxiety associated with a long hospital stay.  They keep the lines of communication open between patient and families and the clinical team, clarifying what to anticipate in the recovery, and alleviating feelings of being overwhelmed.  Knowing someone is there for them and understands what they’re going through is a huge comfort for patients and families.

Following admission, a patient is evaluated by a psychologist, who works closely with the patient to provide emotional support.  The psychologist also supports family members, offering suggestions for dealing with the stress of their loved ones illness.  The Chaplain offers non-denominational spiritual support to the patient and family members, meeting with them on an ongoing basis from a spiritual aspect.

Mara Mackey, Manager of Patient and Family Relations at RML, was a former Patient Ambassador.  “The Patient Ambassador serves as a patient advocate and assists in the resolution of any issues the patient and their family may have during their stay,” said Mara.  She served in the role for 8 years, and now leads the team.

“As a team, we meet with the patients and their families regularly.” Mara added.  “Monthly we offer families  “Take a Break”, where the Patient and Family Relations team offer family members a chance to take a break from the stress of their loved one’s illness by talking with the team, as well as with other patients’ family members to share experiences.”  For more information, please contact:

RML Specialty Hospital

5601 South County Line Rd., Hinsdale, IL                                              

Tricia Vaisvila

630-286-4125

or

3435 West Van Buren, Chicago, IL

773-826-6400

[ www.RMLSpecialtyHospital.com ]