ABSTRACT
The role of palliative care medicine embodies the general tenets of medicine. If there is a lack of homeostasis after analysis of the physiologic state of the patient, supportive care attempts to define the imbalance, remedy symptoms of disease/distress, and promote functional improvement. In much the same way as supportive care, the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation—or physiatry—predicates itself on function. Both disciplines have traditional roles in the care of acute, subacute, and chronic patients. Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R)—or physiatry—arose more of out of necessity than as a well-established allied field of medicine. This specialty initially comprised the practice of modalities of medical treatment. Patients leaving the hospital following significant medical issues need to function in the community. In addition to remastery of self-care and household management, many individuals will want to resume their premorbid lives.
