The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (SRALab), formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), is one of the most innovative care facilities in the world for its science-driven breakthroughs in human ability. It is the first-ever “translational” research hospital where clinicians, scientists, technologists and patients work together in the same space to make real-time discoveries and maximize outcomes, ultimately improving patient recovery. During construction of the building, Code and Theory brought SRALab’s approach into the digital space, using many of the organizing principles around the physical design of the new facility, and its progressive approach to patient care, to reimagine and create its new website.

“We know that technology empowers people and businesses alike, but what the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab is doing to maximize patient recovery, both online and offline, is a game changer for patients, and further pushes the healthcare industry toward digital innovation,” said Michael Treff, Managing Partner, New York at Code and Theory.

Previously patients received a physical treatment binder personalized to their new abilities, now they can access all of the information they need anytime, anywhere, on the website. As the digital transformation of the healthcare industry progresses, and patients are able to take more of an active role in their own care and rehabilitation, converting the experience from primarily analog to completely digital was a primary objective.

In addition to serving patients, the site also showcases the research being done at AbilityLab, the labs that partner with SRALab (by way of Northwestern), and aligns profiles for every doctor, scientist, physical therapist, and occupational therapist, highlighting the world-class talent at The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

The launch of the new site is in conjunction with the opening of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab hospital and research center on March 25th in downtown Chicago. The 27-story, $550 million facility comprises 1.2 million square feet, 800,000 of which is devoted to clinical care and research that will make the new hospital one of a kind in the U.S.