Understanding the role of the physiatrist and how to improve the continuum of care for trauma patients: a qualitative study.

Although both acute and rehabilitation care staff find early PM&R consults as being important to support the recovery of trauma patients, there is a need for greater role clarity of the physiatrist across settings and a more refined implementation approach to better meet the communication needs of clinical staff. Implications for RehabilitationEarly physical medicine and rehabilitation consults are seen by acute care and rehabilitation front-line staff as valuable for optimizing the continuum of trauma care.There is a lack of clarity on the role of physiatrists among acute care and rehabilitation clinical staff.The physiatrist plays an important role to help prepare trauma patients for rehabilitation. For patients with complex physical and/or mental health challenges, the physiatrist can also serve as an advocate for access to rehabilitation services.