School Physiatry Clinics: Why I Love Going to School

I have Dr. Martin Diamond to thank for one of the most fulfilling parts of my career. 30 years ago, Dr. Diamond had a very innovative idea. Here in New Jersey, peppered across the state, are specialized schools for students with special needs. Most of these schools are amazing non-profit organizations that embrace the mission of providing the best education possible for children with disabilities. These schools are essential to fill the gap for children who live in school districts that lack adequate programs and services.

 These schools are oases, bringing wonderful and skilled therapists, teachers, nurses, and compassionate staff to children who otherwise would be deprived of their care. So many of these children come from underserved communities and families who are facing multifaceted challenges. For many, accessing essential medical care is often very difficult and sometimes impossible. To address this need, Dr. Diamond partnered with a handful of these schools to establish true multidisciplinary clinics. Rather than depending on families to find ways to bring their children to the hospital or office (New Jersey far from the best public transportation system), these clinics brought services to the children.  They also bring together multiple members of each student’s care team. It is not uncommon for a child to have to travel to half-a-dozen or more different facilities to access their care. These clinics allow students, their parents, therapists, and a physician to troubleshoot challenges together. Sometimes we are fortunate to even have an orthotist or equipment specialist join in the discussion.  Though the field of Physiatry was built on the philosophy of the team approach, because of logistical challenges and insurance-imposed limitations, true multidisciplinary opportunities are rare. This fact makes these multidisciplinary school clinics even more unique and needed.

Fast-forward three decades, there are a dozen or more Physiatry clinics found at specialized schools across the state. I’m so fortunately to partner with six of them and I hope they will always be part of my practice. It has been a true honor to work side-by-side with such dedicated individuals who share the mission to help children with disabilities reach their potential.