Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center Celebrates Renovation and Reopening of Patient Apartment

Knoxville, Tenn., May 2, 2019 - Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center is pleased to announce the grand reopening of its patient apartment, newly renovated through the generosity of Clayton and Fort Sanders Foundation.

The only one of its kind in the area, the apartment provides a unique opportunity for patients to practice the skills they will need to care for themselves at home after they are discharged from inpatient rehabilitation. It is located at PNRC within Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and has been in use since the rehabilitation center opened in 1978.

The apartment’s kitchen, bedroom and living areas were fully accessible, but the last renovation was more than 20 years ago. The new renovation features a more contemporary look and design with adaptable features such as easy-turn faucets, drop-down kitchen cabinetry and grab bars.

PNRC medical director Mary Dillon, MD, calls the renovation “an incredible gift.”

“Clayton has helped us build a home within Patricia Neal to help our patients get back to their homes,” said Dr. Dillon. “We have been very blessed, not only by the materials Clayton gave us and the products that were installed, but also by their generosity of time and talents in building such a beautiful environment for our patients.”

While at the apartment, patients who are recovering from the effects of a serious stroke or injury learn how to cook, clean and live with their “new normal.” Patients stay in the apartment for an average 1-2 nights.