Mercy Health is unveiling the new look of its recently redesigned acute rehabilitation center (ARC) at Mercy Health – Springfield Regional Medical Center.
The ARC provides an average of 3 hours of daily physical, occupational, and speech therapy to members of the community who are not capable of returning home and require a more intensive level of rehab and physician oversight than a skilled nursing facility, outpatient rehab, or home health program can provide.
The goal of the “One Step Closer to Home” project is to bring the look and feel of Springfield into the rehab center. With tremendous support from the Mercy Health Foundation of Clark and Champaign Counties and through philanthropic support from local business leaders, arts organizations, and colleges, the project incorporates the names of Springfield organizations and businesses, as well as local landmarks, to help the patient feel like they are making progress in their recovery and getting closer to being back in their community.
“We are proud to see the generosity of our community come to life in a project that will touch so many patients and families,” said Kristy Kohl McCready, President of Mercy Health Foundation Clark & Champaign Counties. “This effort shows what can happen when local businesses, donors, and health care come together for a common cause – creating a healing environment that truly reflects the spirit of Springfield.”
In addition to celebrating the generosity that made the project possible, Mercy Health leaders are emphasizing how the new design supports both patient recovery and community connection.
“Our goal was to create a welcoming environment that encourages the community spirit within our center, fostering a sense of belonging and support,” explained Bobby Parrett, Director of Rehabilitation for Mercy Health - Springfield. “With 10 interactive, functional areas, we will enhance patient care by providing accessible resources tailored to their daily needs. This initiative not only improves the quality of services offered but also strengthens the bond between our center and the community we serve. We are bringing them one step closer to home, while maximizing the quality of the care that we provide.”
Studies have shown treatment environments have an influence on a patient’s anxiety and stress levels, recovery time, length of stay, amount of medication used, and physical comfort.
“This project isn’t about putting fresh paint on the walls for aesthetic purposes. Our intention is to drive quality outcomes and better engage our patients and their families – to make the whole rehab process beneficial and more meaningful for everyone involved,” adds Dr. Chris Kusmierczyk, program director for the acute rehabilitation program at Mercy Health – Springfield.
The ARC overhaul also includes the addition of new adaptive therapy equipment and technology to enhance patient experience as well as functional spaces like a restaurant, bank, porch, and grocery store to practice real life skills prior to reintegrating back into the community.
Mercy Health’s Acute Rehabilitation Center is the only program of its kind within 30 miles of Springfield. It serves more than 500 patients annually.