The Division, established in 1993, brings together efforts to improve functional outcome among patients at risk for disability, debilitation, and dependence. By providing a forum for scholars and practitioners with eclectic perspectives but common goals, the Division fosters collaborations to address the diverse issues in health care. The Division members participate in the education of Harvard medical students, residents, fellows, and practitioners in every specialty. In the field of research, the Division promotes the ongoing transfer of technologies from the laboratory to the clinic. The use of effective research innovations in clinical practice improves the overall quality of rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation is the medical management of patients with major disabilities.
A willingness to look beyond the pathology and deal with the patient's residual abilities and resources. A coordinated therapeutic approach by a team representing various health-related disciplines which can improve function for a person with a disability. A commitment to addressing cognitive, behavioral, social, and vocational priorities along with physical and medical issues. A medical philosophy, supported by hospital policies, which prevents or corrects the harmful effects of deconditioning by encouraging functional activities. An environment where success is measured by functional outcome and quality of life, as well as the traditional measures of mortality and morbidity.