Clinical Referral

A good rehabilitation clinician should foster independence rather than dependency. Interpersonal fit is a key quality for pain-related rehabilitation referrals. For procedural specialists, technical excellence and repeated procedural experience are prioritized over bedside manner. Direct communication between clinician and coach is treated as essential because messages passed through the patient can be distorted. Referral is warranted when a client's needs exceed the provider's scope or skill. Referral may apply to medical needs or nonmedical skills such as kettlebell coaching. Good rehabilitation clinicians should assess beyond the isolated painful part.