This fall, Baptist Health Rehabilitation Institute-Little Rock (BHRI) celebrated its 50th anniversary. As Arkansas’ largest, most comprehensive and frequently awarded rehabilitation hospital, BHRI also operates 15 outpatient therapy centers across central Arkansas.
BHRI is the state’s sole inpatient rehabilitation facility certified by the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities for stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury and amputation rehabilitation. It provides crucial support to individuals rebuilding their lives after life-altering events.
For half a century, BHRI has focused on patient recovery and adaptation to injuries and illnesses, treating more than 1,500 patients annually. Kourtney Matlock, president of BHRI, notes that without the institute, many of these cases would require out-of-state care.
“We are here to support them along the way, and because of that, our staff and providers connect with them in a way you don’t get to see in most health care settings,” Matlock says. “We are the patient’s coaches, their biggest fan and their eternal support.”
The institute is dedicated to helping patients regain function and live their fullest lives, employing innovative rehabilitation programs. In 1978, BHRI established a therapeutic recreation department featuring activities like bowling, swimming, target practice and wheelchair basketball. In 2009, thanks to a donation from the family of former patient David Shoptaw, BHRI launched David’s Village, a community training center that aids patients in their transition back to daily life.
In 2011, BHRI made history as the first rehabilitation hospital in Arkansas to receive an Arkansas Governor’s Quality Award for Performance from Gov. Mike Beebe.
For more details on Baptist Health rehabilitation and therapy services, visit BaptistHealthRehab.com.