endurhæfingarstöðvar

Endurhæfingarstöðvar are rehabilitation facilities that provide multidisciplinary care to individuals whose physical, cognitive, or emotional functions have been impaired due to illness, injury, surgery, or disability. The aim of these centers is to restore and optimize daily functioning, independence, and participation in work and social life.

A typical endurhæfingarstöð offers a range of services delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Teams commonly include physicians, physical and occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and other specialists such as prosthetics and orthotics experts. Core activities include comprehensive assessment, individualized rehabilitation plans, therapy sessions, education for patients and families, and access to assistive devices and technologies. The focus is on functional goals rather than solely on medical treatment.

Endurhæfingarstöðvar operate in several settings, including inpatient units within hospitals, standalone rehabilitation centers, and outpatient or day-rehabilitation facilities. They work with diverse patient groups, such as people recovering from stroke or brain injury, spinal cord injuries, major orthopedic procedures, chronic illnesses, burn injuries, or pediatric and geriatric populations. Programs may also address vocational rehabilitation and social reintegration.

Service delivery is typically coordinated through referrals from physicians or primary care providers. Funding and organization are usually part of the public health system, though private and hybrid providers may exist. Emphasis is placed on patient-centered goal setting, continuity of care, discharge planning, and collaboration with community services to support home-based rehabilitation and long-term independence. Quality improvement and outcome measurement are common to monitor progress and guide practices.