Message From the Chief Executive Officer

As Rhonda Abbott pointed out in our lead story, education is the beginning of practice in health care, and it is also the beginning of learning to live life with a disability. By investing in the education of our staff members, we help them advance in their disciplines and contribute to improved outcomes for our patients.

More than 60% of our clinical staff holds advanced certifications. We encourage and support certification and we are also committed to being a teaching and academic affiliation location for all disciplines that treat patients here.

TIRR Memorial Hermann Education provides a comprehensive package that allows our employees and professionals from around the world to expand their knowledge and keep their clinical skills up to date. Students and professionals may also apply for a residency, fellowship, clinical rotation or internship, or participate in student observation. We work with schools across the country to offer preceptorships, opportunities for education and volunteer options for more exposure to the rehabilitation hospital experience.

Our commitment to educating patients continues when they leave the hospital. Independent Living Research Utilization has supported community living for people with disabilities for more than 40 years. ILRU’s goal is to help people with disabilities lead productive lives and promote barrier-free communities. That kind of education is a win-win for all of us.

Jerry A. Ashworth, FACHE
Chief Executive Officer
TIRR Memorial Hermann
System Executive for Rehabilitation Services
Memorial Hermann Health System