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Joint Camp

Experience the uniqueness of our nationally recognized joint replacement program, and get back to doing the things you enjoy!

Judith Starkloff (seated), Dr. John Greco (standing, in blue) and members of the Joint Camp care team.
Judith Starkloff (seated), Dr. John Greco (standing, in blue) and members of the Joint Camp care team. Starkloff was the 7,000th Joint Camp patient in summer 2007.

Joint Camp patients need specialized care before and after surgery for the best outcomes. Because we understand these unique needs, more patients trust Huntsville Hospital with their joint replacement procedures than any other hospital in Alabama.

From 10 patients per week in 1998 to approximately 25 per week currently, Joint Camp has cared for more than 8,000 joint replacement patients.

Joint Camp was created so patients could build physical strength and independence in a supportive and creative setting. “Campers” get to know one another, and through group therapy, provide motivation to lift each other’s spirits.

Comprehensive presurgery orientation includes seminars that cover:

  • What will happen each day of the hospital stay and recovery
  • How patients are cared for including anesthesia options
  • What is expected of the patient
  • What happens upon discharge
  • Overview of therapy exercises so patients can improve flexibility and strength prior to surgery
  • Homework assignments for patients to prepare their living spaces, especially bathrooms and bedrooms

Joint Camp patients

Specialized, friendly nursing unit for post surgery hospital care and therapy

  • Patient is encouraged to stand and/or take a few steps the day of surgery
  • Group therapy begins the day after surgery
  • Special information on living at home during recovery
  • Gourmet meal for patient and a guest prior to discharge
  • Average length of stay has gone from one week to three or four days!
  • Private rooms

Continuing therapy after discharge – graduate campers choose from:

  • Discharge to home with outpatient therapy three times per week for at least four weeks
  • Discharge to home with home health nurses and therapists for several weeks
  • Nursing home with correct joint replacement therapy for two or three weeks

According to United Healthcare, Huntsville Hospital is a Premium Total Joint Replacement Specialty Center based on criteria regarding quality and cost efficiency. In 2000, Solucient, an independent company that reviews healthcare data, evaluated hospitals nationwide for quality orthopedic care and named Huntsville Hospital a “Top 100 Hospital in America for Orthopedics.”

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For more information, call (256) 265-8343.