Rehabilitation Services at UNC Hospitals provides an interdisciplinary program for individuals with acquired brain injury. The goals of the Acquired Brain Disorders Program are to maximize functional recovery and independence and to minimize the effects of cognitive and physical disabilities.  Individuals with a traumatic brain injury experience a number of functional limitations that may include difficulty walking, speaking, or eating, disorders of mood, and cognitive difficulties that are addressed in the rehabilitation process.

Patients with stroke, traumatic brain injury, encephalopathy, brain tumors, hypoxia or central nervous system infections may be admitted to the brain injury program for patient-centered multidisciplinary care.  Our team includes physiatrists (physicians who specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation), rehabilitation nurses, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, recreational therapists, social workers, care coordinators, recreational therapists, psychologists, neuropsychologists, prosthetists and orthotists, teachers from the Hospital  School, pharmacists and a registered dietician. 

Rehabilitation for patients with acquired brain disorders may include a full spectrum of rehabilitation care including consultation in the acute hospital setting, acute comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation, home and community-based services, outpatient services and follow-up care. Patient care is based on individual abilities and response to treatment. Community referrals for return to driving and vocational rehabilitation or independent living services will be recommended as indicated.  Treatment is patient-centered and goal directed. The acquired brain disorders team actively involves the patient and family in goal setting and encourages family participation