Duke Orthopaedic Surgery continues to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration in rehabilitation research through its Interdisciplinary Rehabilitative Research Seminar Series, which this week featured Megan Kennelly, MD, assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery with expertise in Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM).
Kennelly presented her research, Path to Practice: Advancing Rehabilitation and Reducing 30‑Day Readmissions, highlighting team‑based approaches that improve transitions from hospital to home for pediatric patients. Her work brings together Duke OTD and DPT students, orthopaedic trainees, and faculty, underscoring the role of interdisciplinary education and research in advancing patient‑centered care.
Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine focuses on optimizing function, mobility, and quality of life while preventing secondary complications and supporting patients across the lifespan—from infancy through adulthood. PRM physicians care for children with a wide range of conditions, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, neuromuscular disorders, brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke, amputations, brachial plexus injuries, and genetic or metabolic conditions. Despite the growing demand for pediatric rehabilitation services, the specialty remains small nationwide, with just over 400 PRM physicians across the U.S. and only seven currently practicing in North Carolina.
During the seminar, Kennelly shared findings demonstrating the impact of structured transitional care services delivered through an integrated practice unit. Her research showed that patients who participated in these transitional services experienced 30‑day readmission rates comparable to the general population and an 80% reduced risk of readmission compared with high‑risk patients who did not receive transitional support.
“When we invest in coordinated, team‑based transitions of care, we can meaningfully improve outcomes while supporting patients and families at some of their most vulnerable moments,” said Kennelly.
The presentation also reflected Kennelly’s personal commitment to pediatric rehabilitation, shaped early in her career by volunteering at Victory Junction Camp in Randleman County—a milestone she credits with inspiring her path to medicine. Her work integrates clinical care, education, and systems‑level research to address gaps that affect pediatric patients long after discharge.
Attendees from across disciplines engaged in lively discussion following the presentation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among orthopaedics, rehabilitation medicine, physical and occupational therapy, and health systems researchers. The session reinforced Duke Orthopaedics’ commitment to team‑based, practice‑informed rehabilitation research that translates evidence into real‑world improvement for patients and families.
The Interdisciplinary Rehabilitative Research Seminar Series continues to spotlight faculty work that bridges specialties, fosters trainee engagement, and advances Duke’s mission to improve health through innovation, collaboration, and discovery.