What is Polytrauma?

The Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center is one of four facilities in the country designed to provide intensive rehabilitative care to veterans and service members who experienced severe injuries (including brain injuries) to more than one organ system.  For more information about Polytrauma, visit the national Polytrauma System of Care page.

Mental Health Support

Many veterans with Polytrauma injuries also need mental health support.  If you or someone you know is having trouble readjusting to civilian life, is having trouble sleeping, or is experiencing mood swings, depression, or other signs of extreme stress, we can offer free or low-cost assistance and care. 

You are not alone.

Readjustment Counseling System (Vet Centers)

National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

VA Mental Health Program

Admission Information

If you are interested in more information about admission to the Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center or want to schedule an evaluation, please contact Debbie Shepherd (RN, BS, CCM) at (813) 972-2000 Ext. 6149.

Veterans returning from Operation Enduring Freedom and/or Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) should contact their local OEF/OIF Coordinator for information about benefits and health care enrollment.

Locate points of contact for returning veterans and soldiers throughout the Florida region.

Information for Family Members

We offer a Family Support Group for family members coping with the traumatic injury of a loved one.  This Group is completely voluntary and assists families with an active support network and encouragement.

The Group Meets every Saturday morning at 10:00 am on the Rehab Unit.  The facilitator, Steve Klemz (MS, MSW, LCSW), can be contacted at (813) 972-2000, Ext. 6663.

Family members of any military service member or veteran who was traumatized or severely disabled and now receiving rehabilitation or dealing with readjustment issues are eligible to participate.