Select Specialty Hospital (Pittsburgh UPMC)

This year has brought challenges and changes. As we reflect on 2020 ahead of the holiday season, we hold space for those who experienced loss and celebrate with gratitude the hard work and ongoing healing that has occurred across the country. To our PATIENTS and their FAMILIES, thank you for entrusting us with your care. From our specialty hospitals’ most critically ill patients to those seeking recovery from injury or illness in our rehabilitation hospitals and outpatient c...enters, everything we do focuses on helping YOU recover. To our COLLEAGUES, your unwavering COMMITMENT to our patients, their families and each other is our greatest asset. This year has been unprecedented, but your dedication and resilience has impacted the lives of thousands of patients. To the COMMUNITIES we call home, it is our PRIVILEGE to serve you. Through our specialty hospitals and physical therapy centers, and joint venture partnerships with some of the nation’s leading health systems, we are honored to provide a continuum of post-acute at a time when our nation needs it most. #Thanksgiving #Thankful

8 TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF THE CAREGIVER #NationalFamilyCaregiversMonth 1. Seek support. Hospitals, social services agencies and other organizations offer a wide range of programs and resources. Many offer local support groups, meal programs, transportation and other assistance that can help ease the burden of care. 2. Get connected. There are many online groups and mobile apps that can connect people facing similar circumstances, offer ways to manage needs, and provide other... resources, strategies and support. 3. Keep in touch. It’s important to maintain relationships with family, friends, co-workers, and others in their community. A friendly phone call, a shared joke, or a brief text message can go a long way. 4. Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for assistance. Family, friends and others are often willing to help, but may be unsure of what they can do. 5. Exercise and eat well. Even if you can’t get to the gym, talking a walk, doing yoga or exercising can help to reduce stress, improve your health and feel energized. Be sure to follow a healthy diet. All too often, caregivers fail to eat properly, which leads to weight gain or loss, higher cholesterol levels and other problems. 6. Get some rest! A lack of sleep can lead to serious physical, psychological and cognitive issues from falls to forgetfulness. Give your body the time it needs to rest and re-charge. 7. Create some me time. Don’t overlook your own needs/interests. Make arrangements to get a haircut, go to a movie or simply to have some personal time to pursue hobbies or activities you enjoy. 8. Be patient with yourself. Being a caregiver is an enormous responsibility and a role that few people are prepared for. Over time, you will learn how to manage this role. You will figure out what works for you and your loved one, as well as for your family. And you will understand the reward that comes from doing the best you can to help an important person in your life.

This Veterans Day, and every day, we express sincerest gratitude to the men and women who served our country. From outpatient therapy centers and specialty hospitals to our shared services teams, we are honored to work alongside these military veterans, who elevate the patient experience through tireless dedication, commitment and compassion. #VeteransDay

Our specialty hospital patients benefit from the skill and expertise provided by more than 1800 respiratory care team members across the country. In the face of a global pandemic, their care is essential to COVID-19 patients as well for those recovering from other critical illnesses. #RespiratoryCareWeek #RCWeek2020

The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the pivotal role respiratory therapists play in helping critically ill patients liberate from the ventilator and continue their recovery. In the face of incredible challenges, our respiratory care teams rose to the occasion amid the pandemic, providing healing, hope and a hand to hold for more than 4,000 COVID-19 patients since March. In this video, Select Medical Director of Respiratory Services for Specialty Hospitals LoriAnn Kettler discusses the passion and focus our respiratory teams bring to their work. #RCWeek20