The services involved in helping patients recover their functions and abilities after a serious illness or surgery. Patients in rehabilitation are usually supervised by a rehabilitation physician (also called a physiatrist). They receive the services of physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, as well as cognitive therapists, dieticians, and prosthetists, as needed.RelevanceA prerequisite of rehabilitation is the ability of the patient to follow commands. If a patient cannot follow commands, they are not eligible for rehabilitation. See also “Rehabilitation Hospital” for more information.