Understanding Healthcare

Patient and Family

Choose a preferred language


The patient and family as rehab team members

The patient and family are the most important members of the rehab (rehabilitation) team. All of the team members need to be open and honest with each other. This is key for the rehab program's success.


Patient and family rights

The patient and, if they permit, their family, have certain rights during rehab. These include:

  • To know what the disability and rehab plan is.

  • To get a second opinion on the rehab plan.

  • To ask for a different health care provider.

  • To have an equal voice in care decisions.

  • To be treated as equal team members.

  • To have the chance to increase self-care activities and independence.

  • To have ways to resume social and community roles.

  • To know about the family's role in the rehab process.

  • To be told about community resources, support groups, and continuation of care after discharge.

  • To have hope and assurance for the patient's future.


Patient and family responsibilities

The patient and family also have certain responsibilities during rehab, such as:

  • To give the team correct medical information.

  • To support and encourage the patient.

  • To follow agreed-on treatment plans.

  • To meet financial obligations.

  • To take part in patient and family conferences, education sessions, and discharge planning.

It's important for the patient, family, and other team members to all work together. This is the best way to set and reach goals. These include goals for the best health and function, good discharge planning, and over time, community re-entry.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read article
Wellness
Rehabilitation Case Manager

A case manager is a patient advocate. They often don't provide direct patient care. But they may work either as part of the rehab team or for the patient's insurance company.

Read article
Wellness
Choosing a Rehabilitation Unit/CARF

Rehab services are provided in many different places, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers. Read on to learn about what to look for when choosing a rehab facility and services.

Read article
Wellness
Physical Rehabilitation at the Hospital

If you are in the hospital recovering from surgery, healing from an injury, or being treated for a disabling medical condition, physical rehabilitation may be an important part of your treatment.

Read article
Wellness
Chaplains for Physical Rehabilitation

Chaplains act as spiritual counselors to help patients and families through periods of crisis.