The SCI care pathway

Author: Dominik Zbogar | Reviewer: Giorgio Scivoletto | Published: 30 April 2025 | Updated: ~

How long people receive inpatient rehabilitation for spinal cord injury (SCI) is called rehabilitation length of stay (LOS). Rehabilitation is often part of the care pathway for a SCI patient. From initial injury to discharge into the community, the care pathway typically involves acute care, rehabilitation and discharge into the community, each addressing different aspects of recovery. Progression through the care pathway is not always seamless. For example, the interval before rehabilitation can involve more than one acute facility, or a patient may be readmitted to acute care while in rehabilitation.

This period of early health care after a major injury or illness includes both emergency services in the community (like ambulance and paramedic services) and treatment at an acute care hospital. During this time, serious and urgent health problems are addressed to stabilize the patient.

30 days in the 1970s to 19 days since 2015

Between 25-37 days depending on injury severity/level

When a person is medically stable, most people leave acute care and are transferred to a “rehabilitation center” or “rehabilitation hospital”, where they focus on recovering and developing the skills for living with an SCI long-term. In some cases, the acute and rehabilitation services are in the same hospital. In other cases, the rehabilitation hospital is a separate centre.

Inpatient rehabilitation involves staying at a rehabilitation centre and receiving full-day programming.

Outpatient rehabilitation has individuals living in the community and visiting the rehabilitation centre for regular services. This phase can continue for several months, focusing on further functional improvements, community reintegration, and vocational training.

Returning to community living after an SCI involves planning for suitable living arrangements after rehabilitation and for a possible return to previous activities. Some return home while others may go to a long-term or transitional care facility. This is done with support from the whole health team and may be led by a social worker or discharge planner.

Refer to our article on Understanding Rehabilitation for more information!