One of the newest techniques for managing care and involving patients in their own recovery is a process called clinical pathways. Patients are given a specific set of short- and long-term goals, starting from the first steps they take in the hospital until they return to a full and active life.

Clinical team members meet regularly to review each patient's progress and collaborate on removing any obstacles to recovery. Using clinical pathways not only improves outcomes, it provides continuity of care - an important element in recovery, since several types of clinicians are involved at different stages. With predetermined milestones and a simple checklist, patients know what to expect - and what is expected of them - throughout the recovery process. What's more, when families and caregivers participate, they are able to help keep patients on track once they leave the hospital.