A new pilot program on Prince Edward Island will provide rehabilitation physiotherapy for uninsured and underinsured patients who have had total hip or knee replacements.
The province is spending $80,000 on the one-year pilot program to help improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term health-care costs.
The provincial government says the program will provide eligible patients with an initial assessment and up to six follow-up physiotherapy treatments at no cost to the patient.
“Access to timely rehabilitation is essential for recovery following joint replacement surgery. This pilot program will help patients regain mobility, improve their quality of life, and support better long-term health outcomes,” said Mark McLane, minister of Health and Wellness, in a news release.
Patients scheduled for a total knee replacement will be referred to the program during their pre-operative clinical check-in, one week before surgery.
Anyone who has had a total hip replacement will be referred at their six-week post-operative clinical assessment with the orthopedic team.
The province says referrals will be facilitated through the orthopedic rehabilitation team at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, orthopedic surgeons, and other members of the patient’s care team.
“Early and structured rehabilitation is key to a successful recovery following a joint replacement surgery,” said Chad Cameron, physiotherapist and partner at Reactive Health.
“This program ensures that patients have direct access to the support they need to restore mobility, reduce pain, and regain independence. By providing access to post-operative care, we are helping Islanders achieve better long-term health outcomes and improving overall quality of life.”
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