Columbia VA Health Care System Opens New State-of-the-Art Rehabilitation Clinic

The clinic brings together physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), kinesiotherapy (KT), and rehabilitation physicians under one roof, offering Veterans access to a wide range of specialized therapies and cutting-edge equipment.

The new clinic houses an interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving the quality of life for Veterans. Dr. Meredith Hall, Chief of Physical Therapy, emphasizes the diverse services available, including musculoskeletal evaluations, pain management, gait training, prosthetic training, and specialized therapies for stroke and amputee patients. “We also have certified specialists in vestibular therapy, orthopedic care, and lymphedema treatment, which sets us apart from other facilities,” she says.

In addition to comprehensive physical and occupational therapy services, the clinic supports Veterans with neurological and balance disorders, providing driver’s rehabilitation, wheelchair mobility training, and adaptive equipment to help maintain independence. “Our team includes hand specialists, wheelchair and mobility seating experts, and therapeutic pain specialists, ensuring that each Veteran receives tailored care based on their individual needs,” Dr. Hall explains.

One of the standout features of the new clinic is its advanced technology. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge tools, which will be instrumental in treating Veterans with vestibular and balance issues. The clinic is also acquiring a four-sided weight stack for strength training, allowing Veterans to continue their fitness routines post-rehabilitation.

Additionally, OT has access to a fully equipped simulated kitchen and bathroom, where Veterans can practice daily living activities, such as cooking and bathing, in a safe, controlled environment. This helps patients regain confidence and independence as they transition back to their everyday lives.

Collaboration among the PT, OT, and KT teams is key to the clinic’s approach. “We work together with a shared goal of improving our Veterans’ health and independence,” says Dr. Hall. “For example, a stroke patient may work with PT to regain strength and balance, with KT for driving rehabilitation, and with OT to practice daily tasks like bathing and dressing. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that each Veteran receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique recovery needs.”

Dr. Mehr Ahmed, Chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, echoes this sentiment: “The new clinic allows us to easily collaborate across disciplines, making communication seamless and improving patient outcomes. We also offer group classes, such as yoga and Tai Chi, both in-person and via telehealth, to accommodate Veterans who may have difficulty traveling.”

The rehabilitation clinic is committed to providing Veterans with timely, accessible care. While Veterans must receive a consult from their provider before scheduling appointments with rehabilitation services, amputees have the unique ability to self-refer. Dr. Hall explains, "We’ve expanded from just 4 physical therapy providers to 38 across multiple locations, including Greenville and Anderson, with Florence set to open soon," ensuring that Veterans across the state can access services closer to home.

Veterans have expressed appreciation for the new facility’s modern design, natural lighting, and outdoor spaces. “Patients enjoy the views of the large oak tree outside and the open, bright atmosphere, which is a significant improvement from our previous location in the hospital’s basement,” says Dr. Hall.

Looking ahead, the clinic is excited to introduce more innovations in rehabilitation care. “We are particularly excited about virtual reality tools that may benefit chronic pain patients and those with limb loss,” Dr. Hall shares. “Additionally, we aim to focus more on preventative care, working with Veterans before they experience major health issues to help them maintain their health and independence.”

Dr. Ahmed adds that the team is always striving to stay ahead of advancements in rehabilitation care. “We’re committed to integrating whole-health approaches and providing more educational opportunities for Veterans. Exercise will remain a core component of rehab, but teaching Veterans how to maintain their health and manage pain long-term is crucial for their overall well-being.”

While the new clinic has faced some initial challenges—such as parking and signage issues—the team has worked diligently to address them. "We've created designated parking spaces and improved shuttle services to help Veterans access the clinic more easily," says Dr. Ahmed.

With these challenges being resolved, the clinic looks forward to expanding its services. Dr. Hall notes that the outdoor spaces around the facility will allow for real-life practice on different terrains, which is particularly helpful for Veterans with prosthetics or sensory impairments. “We’ve designed the clinic to challenge our patients with varied surfaces like grass, gravel, and sand, so they can feel confident using their devices in their own environments,” she says.

As the Columbia VA Health Care System’s rehabilitation clinic continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to providing Veterans with the highest standard of care. With its innovative therapies, advanced technology, and collaborative approach, the clinic is poised to become a regional leader in Veteran rehabilitation services.

Veterans interested in rehabilitation services can contact the clinic through their primary care provider or reach out directly via My HealtheVet or the clinic’s front office to schedule an appointment.

For more information about what’s going on at the Veterans medical center, clinic locations and other services available to Veterans in and around Columbia, visit the website https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, keyword: VAColumbiaSC.

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About the Columbia VAHCS:

The Columbia VAHCS comprises the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center and seven community-based outpatient clinics located throughout South Carolina in Anderson, Florence, Greenville, Orangeburg, Rock Hill, Spartanburg, and Sumter; serving more than 90,000 veterans annually in 36 of 46 counties in South Carolina. The Columbia VA is a level 1b teaching hospital, providing a full range of patient care services, with state-of-the-art technology, education, and research. Comprehensive health care is provided through primary care, tertiary care and long-term care in areas of medicine, surgery, psychiatry, physical medicine, and rehabilitation.