The Riverside Walter Reed Hospital Therapy Department recently relocated to a suite in an office building near the Gloucester hospital.

Sean Schwarting, director of physical therapy and rehabilitation, said the new facility has 5,000 square feet compared to the just 1,400 square feet it occupied inside the hospital.

Larger quarters have allowed for expanding a variety of services. Physical therapy now has four physical therapists and two physical therapy assistants. Nutritional counseling has been expanded, with counseling for diabetics now being offered.

A speech therapist is also housed in the new facility, and an occupational therapist is expected to join the team in 2011.
Also, the larger office provides space for use once or twice a week by Reach Orthotics & Prosthetics, and Dr. Ron Gharbo, who performs nerve testing. "Our goal is to provide a comprehensive therapy center close to home," Schwarting said.

By using a cluster concept, a patient can receive a...