How to Refer

Patients are admitted to the inpatient or outpatient programs at Rehabilitation Institute at Santa Barbara (RISB) on the basis of their potential to benefit from medical rehabilitation. Patients are referred to RISB by private physicians, medical/surgical hospitals, insurance companies, the California State Department of Rehabilitation, and other agencies serving persons with disabilities.

Each patient must be medically stable and possess a realistic potential for functional improvement. In instances when potential is not clear, the patient may be admitted for an evaluation period. Diagnoses appropriate for admission are stroke and other neurological conditions, amputation, multiple sclerosis, and orthopedic injuries.

If the patient is considered appropriate for services based on a physician's consultation and/ or by a Clinical Liaison. RISB's V.P of Medical Services/Medical Director approves the admission. A treatment plan, including medical rehabilitation goals and estimated length of stay are then developed. Once admitted, a patient's primary care physician or the Institute's staff physiatrists oversee the treatment program working with RISB's transdisciplinary team.

To refer a patient, contact RISB's Admissions Office at (805) 687-7444, ext. 2317 or fax (805) 687-3584.

To arrange for a tour or for general information, please call (805) 569-8999, ext. 2177.