Merwick Post Acute has introduced OrthoWIN, a highly specialized subacute care program for orthopedic recovery.
Dr. Stacey Miller-Smith, a physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist, is directing the new initiative with the support of an interdisciplinary care team at the Plainsboro skilled nursing facility.
OrthoWIN is a PM&R-centered care model available to clients of Brick-based Marquis Health Consulting Services, which supports Merwick Post Acute. OrthoWIN caters to patients recovering from orthopedic surgeries and injuries. The model can help those with co-morbidities or without social support to recover at home independently. PM&R, also known as Physiatry, focuses on the restoration of health and function with an integrated treatment plan including pain management and physical therapy.
“OrthoWIN responds to a direct call from health-care systems for this type of skilled nursing specialization,” said Marquis’ Jennifer Lucas, regional director of care transitions. “Merwick Post Acute’s goal is to help its area hospital partners address the growing volume of joint replacement care and fracture care patients unable to transition home following a surgery or injury.”
Under the leadership of Miller-Smith, OrthoWIN’s “whole body” approach offers customized support to manage complex cases. The OrthoWIN platform – with its clear quality measures and a standardized approach – features a guided PM&R plan, seven-days-per-week therapy services as warranted, coordination with a patient’s surgical team on preferences, and wound care management. OrthoWIN also includes patient and caregiver education, as well as a virtual or in-person home evaluation prior to discharge.
Miller-Smith, who is board-certified in PM&R, has more than 15 years of medical experience and is affiliated with Sea Girt Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Associates.
“Merwick Post Acute is fortunate to have Dr. Miller-Smith lead this new initiative, supported by a dedicated team of talented specialists,” said Lucas. “With OrthoWIN, Merwick is well-positioned to bridge the gap between hospital and home.”
