Implementing a patient self-medication program.

The ultimate goal of any rehabilitation program is to discharge patients into the community with the preparation they need to meet their healthcare requirements as independently as possible (White & Holloway, 1990). Rehabilitation patients actively participate in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and, if needed, speech therapy. They should also be actively involved in their medication programs. When patients leave the hospital setting, they will be expected to be independent in their medication management. A program in which patients receive instruction on medications and are permitted to self-administer their medications would better prepare them for this role after discharge. A self-medication program increases patients' independence, knowledge, and compliance and is congruent with the philosophy of rehabilitation.