Medical Management
As On With Life’s outpatient program has grown over the years, the gap in post-injury medical support has become apparent. Recovery does not end at discharge – many individuals leave acute care with new medications, ongoing symptoms, and unanswered questions. Hoping to further support persons served, On With Life began to envision a dedicated medical clinic that would address these issues and in 2024, took the first step by hiring an advanced practice registered nurse – Jen Blaylock.
What do medical management services currently look like at On With Life?
Right now, On With Life’s medical clinic focuses on medication review and stabilization, as well as addressing issues like uncontrolled blood pressure, recurrent stroke risk and treatment complications. We have also implemented Botox for spasticity management, which allows for earlier intervention for tight, painful, or involuntary contracting muscles. Earlier access to treatment improves outcomes and reduces delays that many had previously experienced.
What has the impact been so far?
We have helped prevent rehospitalizations, adjusted medications to improve function and safety, collaborated closely with therapy teams in real time, and supported complex diagnostic evaluations. In several cases, earlier diagnosis has led to more appropriate treatment and clearer care pathways for persons served and their families.
What does the future look like for these services at On With Life?
We have plans to grow our clinic capacity by expanding beyond our current internal population as well as creating a seamless transition from inpatient to outpatient care. We hope to treat spasticity at its earliest signs, collect meaningful data on early intervention, and eventually expand space and staffing as need grows. As the incidence of neurological injury/diagnosis remains high, our commitment is to adapt, innovate, and provide individualized, advanced care that truly meets people where they are in their recovery journey.
As part of On With Life’s goal to deliver high-quality, coordinated medical care across all settings, Dr. Eric Dreibelbeis has joined the team as the chief medical officer. Dr. Dreibelbeis will not only help to further develop this outpatient medical clinic, but he will also oversee all medical needs and services at On With Life.