Frequently Asked Questions
What is the admission criteria?
Individuals who have sustained neurological compromise are considered for admission into the program. Consideration is given to those individuals that can benefit from a community based model. The rehabilitation program targets functional domains, within a prosthetic supportive environment (PSE), provided by trained, competent rehabilitation professionals familiar with flexible, behavioral treatment.
Who pays for my treatment?
Ultimately, you are responsible for your treatment. But, our Accounts Staff communicate with your insurance provider upon intake. The Accounts Staff bills your insurance company for treatment. If you have more than one insurance company, as in coordinated health care benefits, our staff will bill those involved insurances on your behalf. You are always welcome to speak directly with the Accounts Staff regarding your bill and any related copays.
What insurances do you accept?
Some private insurance companies, including Medicare, have established contacts with specific AARC providers. When services are related to a motor vehicle accident in the State of Michigan, personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, provided through the Michigan No Fault law, are billed for reasonable, necessary services. Our Accounts Staff are trained to answer specific questions that are unique to your situation.
How is the program tailored to meet each persons individual needs?
The cornerstone of our program is a 'person-centered' philosophy. This approach requires that our professional staff be proficient in their area of expertise, as well as have the necessary skills in teamwork, flexibility and creativity. Goals are identified in conjunction with the individual served, their family, the Interdisciplinary Team and others interested in the individual's care.
Will one staff member be responsible for the individual's program?
Each person is assigned a Team Leader upon admission. This "lead person" is responsible for coordinating treatment and communicating with all team members.
How many hours are spent in individual treatment with a therapist?
The majority of rehabilitation contacts are provided 'one on one' with trained professional staff.
Are therapists employees of the organization?
All of the therapists are employees of Ann Arbor Rehabilitation Centers, Inc. Most are employed on a full-time basis.
Are those involved provided with a consistent and structured schedule?
Schedules are provided to the individual on a weekly basis. All efforts are made to coordinate schedules so that consistency is maximized and confusion does not occur for the person served. The schedule is modified and updated regularly as the person achieves goals.
Are families encouraged to participate?
Absolutely! Families are an integral and important member of the Interdisciplinary Team. Family members are encouraged to participate in goal setting and rehabilitation activities. Questions and comments are welcomed. Progress Meetings are scheduled and the family is encouraged to attend.
What does the initial evaluation consist of?
Medical records are requested and reviewed by the Interdisciplinary Treatment Team. Initial evaluations can consist of formal rehabilitation assessments (i.e.: neuropsychological evaluation, occupational therapy evaluation, speech and language evaluation, nursing assessment, strength and stamina evaluation). An assessment of functional living skills, safety, and supervision needs occurs as the person acclimates into the program.
How often are therapies scheduled?
Therapies are scheduled based on individual needs and identified goals. Therapy is available on a daily basis.
How often does the Interdisciplinary Team meet to evaluate the treatment plan and services?
The professional team and support staff meet regularly on Wednesday mornings for training and individual updates. Progress Meetings are scheduled on a monthly, quarterly or more frequent basis as needed or requested by the individual, family or other concerned parties.
Can I contact a staff member during the evening or weekend hours?
On Call staff are available 24 hours a day. The Clinical Director is available to the individual and their family as well, outside of regular business hours.
Will I get better?
Most people recover from acquired brain injury depending on severity and primary location of injury. Recovery can be slow. Steady progress can be documented and noted. For example, 80% of individuals that sustain mild traumatic brain injury recover in six to twelve months. Progress is not limited to the "window" but can occur over the ensuing months and years. Hope, effort, motivation and a supportive network are significant contributors to a positive outcome.