Commitment to Excellence: Rehabilitative Care at James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital

This interdisciplinary team of professionals, equipped with specialized training, provides acute, comprehensive, inpatient rehabilitation tailored to the unique needs of Veterans.

"We are proud to offer an outstanding rehabilitation program that provides top-tier care to our Veterans who have so honorably served this country," said Dr. Steven G. Scott, Chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at James A. Haley VA Department.

Tampa VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center

Central to this commitment is the Tampa VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (PRC), one of only five VA facilities nationwide designed to deliver intensive rehabilitative care. The PRC serves Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members who have sustained complex physical and/or mental health injuries, offering them unparalleled care and support.

Multifaceted Training Programs

The Physical Therapy Department at JAHVH is recognized as one of the largest and most comprehensive clinical training programs in the country. Annually, over 50 doctoral physical therapist students gain invaluable experience through various clinical training opportunities. Moreover, the department hosts a prestigious yearlong residency program, admitting 13 Doctors of Physical Therapy each year to specialize in orthopedic, neurologic, acute care, or geriatric physical therapy.

"Since 2013, nearly 100 residents have graduated from this program, many of whom have continued to serve within the VA system," Dr. John Seiverd, Chief of Physical Therapy, added. "This reflects the program's success in fostering dedicated healthcare professionals."

In addition to physical therapy, the Tampa VA Occupational Therapy Training Program offers extensive training, including pre-degree internships and post-graduate fellowships accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). These fellowships cover areas such as assistive technology, hand therapy, mental health, and neurorehabilitation.

Trainees gain hands-on experience across a wide spectrum of care, including polytrauma, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury, and general rehab programs. Since 2019, this program has graduated 21 fellows, with a retention rate of 52% within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

The hospital is also home to a nationally recognized Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Residency Program. Each year, this highly competitive program selects four residents from over 600 applicants. These residents receive specialized training in polytrauma, TBI, spinal cord injury, amputee care, and general rehabilitation.

"On the eve of my departure, it is only fair to declare the excellence of the entire staff,” remarked another Veteran. Everyone had their special qualities and unique touches that they brought to work every day." 

"The comprehensive training provided not only equips residents with exceptional skills but also instills a deep passion for Veteran care, leading many to continue their careers within the VA system post-training," stated Dr. Standley.

Testimonials Reflect Dedication

Patients frequently express admiration for the care they receive.

"I believe this department is the best in any hospital I have been in, from the doctors to the nurses to all of the staff," shared another grateful Veteran.

“Not only did the entire staff treat me with caring concern, but each one also did things that went beyond the call of duty. That is what I consider excellence in customer service,” added another Veteran.

Dr. Standley emphasizes the dual mission of the department: "Our commitment to excellence means that our patients receive innovative, evidence-based treatments while future healthcare professionals gain invaluable experience and training. I think of training residents and medical students as a coaching tree. If I can train them to be better than me, they will train the next generation to be better than themselves."

The PM&RS at James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital exemplifies a profound commitment to excellence in rehabilitative care. Through its comprehensive training programs, the department ensures that Veterans receive the highest quality of care while preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to continue this vital mission.

Veterans’ quotes were provided via our Shining Star program.

James A. Haley proudly reports that it has earned a four-star rating as part of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2025 hospital quality ratings.  

CMS's hospital ratings are based on five categories: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care. A higher star rating, out of 5, indicates better performance on these quality measures. 

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