The subacute unit offers care for longer term illnesses which involve respiratory failure and tracheostomy. This unit has an aggressive interdisciplinary approach to rehabilitation of ventilator-dependent and post ventilator-dependent patients. Physical therapy at the subacute unit focuses on strengthening, mobility, cognitive retraining and coordination, and range of motion. Physical therapists work closely with occupational therapists, speech therapists, nursing staff, and the patient’s physician to ensure that each patient achieves the highest level of independent mobility.

Many patients are discharged from the Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital Subacute Unit to the next level of rehabilitation, which can include the Rehabilitation Institute of Santa Barbara or home. Other patients choose to remain at the subacute unit on a long-term basis.