EXPERIENTIAL FIELD VISIT REPORT
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR)
St. John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru
Introduction
St. John’s Medical College Hospital, located in the dynamic city of Bengaluru, stands as
one of India’s premier institutions for medical education and patient care. Operating
under the St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, the hospital was founded by
the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) with the vision of uniting high
academic standards with compassionate healthcare services. Since its establishment in
1975, it has developed into a tertiary care center with over 1,350 beds, offering a broad
range of clinical and rehabilitative services.
The institution places a strong emphasis on ethically driven and holistic care, seamlessly
combining cutting-edge medical technology with values centered around dignity and
community outreach. It provides services across all age groups and socio-economic strata
from intensive neonatal care units to far-reaching public health programs ensuring
inclusive access, particularly for underprivileged populations.
Among its many departments, the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
(PMR) stands out for its comprehensive and patient-centered approach. The department
uses a collaborative care model, integrating services like physiotherapy, occupational
therapy, speech-language interventions, psychological care, and social rehabilitation, to
help patients regain autonomy and enhance their quality of life.
Objectives of the Visit
The primary purpose of the field visit was to bridge classroom learning with real-life
clinical practices. Key goals included:
1. Understanding the integrated and team-based structure of rehabilitation services.
2. Gaining clarity on the specific functions of various professionals within the PMR
team.
3. Observing how treatment is tailored to meet each patient’s physical,
psychological, and social needs.
4. Engaging with patients to gain insights into their experiences with disability and
recovery.
5. Reflecting on how theoretical frameworks apply in a real-world rehabilitative
setting, especially in the realm of rehabilitation psychology.
Sessions Attended and Key Observations
1. Orientation Session- Mr. Badrinath (Head of PMR Department)
The visit commenced with an enlightening session by Mr. Badrinath, the head of
PMR. He provided a detailed overview of the department’s mission, the structure
of the care team, the patient population served, and how interdisciplinary
collaboration underpins the rehabilitation process.
He emphasized that rehabilitation is not merely about addressing physical
impairments, but about promoting long-term well-being and functional recovery.
The PMR department caters to individuals dealing with conditions such as stroke,
spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injuries, and
developmental disorders.
A vital point discussed was the collaborative design of patient care plans,
involving physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists,
psychologists, doctors, social workers, and rehab nurses. These efforts target
recovery across emotional, cognitive, physical, and social dimensions. He also
shared insights into the patient’s journey from acute care through to reintegration
into society, highlighting the importance of setting realistic goals, involving
families, and applying adaptive strategies for long-term results.
2. Speech and Language Therapy- Miss Ansha
This session, led by Speech-Language Pathologist Miss Ansha, focused on
communication and swallowing disorders typically seen in patients with
neurological issues such as strokes and head injuries.
She presented the therapeutic tools and strategies used, such as neurostimulation
devices, visual aids, language boards, and flashcards. We also observed how
FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is employed to assess
swallowing issues.
A particularly moving aspect was her integration of emotional and motivational
support within sessions, especially with patients struggling to cope with speech
loss. In the pediatric context, therapy involved playful methods and sensory
techniques with active involvement of parents to foster language skills.
3. Occupational Therapy- Mr. Surya and Mr. Adnan
In this session, occupational therapists Mr. Surya and Mr. Adnan shared how OT
enables individuals to regain their ability to perform everyday activities such as
feeding, grooming, dressing, and using the toilet. They cater to a diverse age
group, from children with developmental delays to adults with neurological
impairments or post-surgical limitations. They demonstrated the following:
Sensory integration strategies for children with autism and sensory issues, Fine
motor training and hand-eye coordination activities using toys and tools, Usage of
assistive devices like adapted kitchen tools and mobility aids, Simulation setups
that mimic real-life environments to practice tasks safely.
The therapists emphasized the notion of using meaningful “occupations” as a
therapeutic approach, asserting that engaging in purposeful activities itself has
healing potential. Their presentation reflected the innovation and empathy
required to support patients toward independent living
4. Medico-Social Work Session- Dr. Arokiasamy
This session highlighted the social and psychological dimensions of rehabilitation.
Dr. Arokiasamy discussed the emotional challenges individuals face post-injury
such as grief, identity disruption, and depression and how these can impede
physical recovery. He emphasized the necessity of psychological counseling,
caregiver education, and mental health evaluation.
Mr. Swami, a medical social worker, elaborated on his role in connecting patients
with rehabilitation programs, financial assistance, and government schemes like
disability pensions and job placement services. He highlighted the particular
struggles of rural and low-income patients in accessing consistent care and
community support.
5. Patient Case Interactions- Facilitated by Dr. Manjari
The final session provided an emotionally resonant learning opportunity through
direct interaction with two patients undergoing long-term rehabilitation for spinal
cord injuries. Guided by Dr. Manjari, we learned about each patient's clinical
background and personal journey.
One was a 35-year-old male injured in a road accident, now paraplegic. Despite
his physical challenges, he expressed hopefulness and candidly shared struggles
related to memory, incontinence, and emotional intimacy. He was undergoing
intensive therapy and had reached the advanced stages of rehab.
The second was a middle-aged man from a rural setting, injured from a fall. He
had faced substantial economic hardship and had experienced suicidal thoughts
during recovery. Although not yet ambulatory, he had regained some sensory
awareness and was being supported through community outreach.
These sessions offered invaluable insight into the real-world complexities of
living with a disability and the profound emotional, social, and financial impacts
it can entail.
Reflective Learnings and Takeaways
This field experience offered far more than textbook reinforcement—it reshaped how we
perceive care and healing.
1. Collaborative Healing: The sessions demonstrated the strength of team-based
rehabilitation.
2. Ethics in Action: The care models observed were deeply rooted in respect,
dignity, and compassion.
3. Technology Meets Humanity: While tools enhanced treatment, human
connection amplified outcomes.
4. Psychosocial Realities: Mental health support is inseparable from physical
recovery.
5. Personal Growth: The exposure strengthened my resolve to contribute
meaningfully to inclusive mental health services.
Conclusion
The educational visit to the PMR department at St. John’s Medical College Hospital
offered a rich, real-world understanding of multidisciplinary rehabilitation. It underscored
the importance of empathy, teamwork, and functional empowerment in patient recovery.
Beyond deepening our academic foundation, the experience inspired a commitment to
socially responsible and dignity-driven care practices in our future professional roles.
