Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Desert Canyon

07/23/2025

At Encompass Health, recovery isn’t confined to a hospital room. Our patients can engage in outdoor therapy, using nature as a partner in their rehabilitation. Whether it’s practicing walking on different surfaces, engaging in activities like gardening and golf or simply enjoying the fresh air and sunshine — the outdoors plays a powerful role in the healing process.

07/22/2025

Teri Campbell, a 55-year-old elementary school teacher, was admitted to Encompass Health after fracturing her hip and was also diagnosed with cancer. Having missed her yougest son's graduation while she was in the hospital, we didn't want Teri to miss another major event. Her goal was to walk down the aisle and dance with her son at his wedding, and we're thrilled to see that this dream became a reality.

We are so thankful to have been part of Teri’s accomplishments. We wish her all the best with her treatments moving forward!

07/17/2025

After a life-changing diagnosis, it may be difficult to think of all the questions to ask your physician. You may be wondering about your next steps and where to go if you need additional medical care. Ask your doctor these four important questions to help you understand your care and make an informed decision.

After a serious illness or injury, your doctor may recommend post-acute care. Understand the settings, so you can advocate for your care.

07/16/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Mark Pierre-Louis and Christine Fortney! 🎉

We’re proud to celebrate Mark Pierre-Louis and Christine Fortney, two of our outstanding case managers, for earning their Certified Case Manager (CCM) credentials!The CCM is a prestigious certification that equips healthcare professionals with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to lead in the field of case management. This achievement reflects their commitment to excellence and to delivering high-quality, coordinated care.

💡 Why it matters: Effective case management plays a vital role in improving patient outcomes, enhancing the quality of care and managing healthcare costs. Mark and Christine’s dedication helps ensure our patients receive the support they need—every step of the way.

Please join us in congratulating them on this well-earned accomplishment!

07/15/2025

Meet Thelma Cathey, a joyful and determined patient at Encompass Health. Thelma came to us after a hospital stay for complications related to her kidneys. When it came time for rehabilitation, she chose Encompass Health because of the great care her husband received here in the past.

Upon admission, Thelma was weak and needed significant help. But she had a clear goal - to regain her independence with transfers and walking. Through hard work and dedication, she achieved exactly that.On discharge day, Thelma walked out with a big smile and our team couldn’t be prouder of her progress. Congratulations, Thelma!

07/15/2025

Congratulations to Gina Stevens, speech language pathologist! 🎉

We’re proud to recognize Gina Stevens, speech-language pathologist, for earning her Lee Silverman Voice Treatment certification! LSVT LOUD is one of the most respected voice treatment approaches for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. This certification empowers speech, occupational and physical therapy professionals to deliver evidence-based care that helps patients speak with greater clarity and confidence.

🗣️ Why it matters: The goal of LSVT LOUD is to help patients speak at a normal loudness level—improving communication and quality of life. With continued practice, patients can maintain a stronger voice after treatment ends.

We’re so proud of Gina for her dedication to advancing patient care and supporting lifelong communication success!

07/14/2025

🎉 Congratulations, Raechelle Collins and Jean Madrid! 🎉

We’re proud to celebrate nurses Raechelle Collins and Jean Madrid for earning their Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse certification! Your dedication to advancing your skills and providing exceptional care is truly inspiring. Thank you both for your commitment to excellence and for making a difference every day.

07/14/2025

If you’re spending time in the water this summer, think before you dive in. Diving is a leading cause of spinal cord injury and can lead to paralysis. Whether you’re at the beach or poolside, remember to jump feet first to avoid an injury that could change your life forever.

07/10/2025

Did you know 15% of caregivers are long-distance? Being a caregiver often comes without a warning after a loved one experiences an accident or illness. It is possible to still care for your loved ones even if you live far away.

Long-distance caregiving can be challenging, but there are ways to stay connected and keep your loved one save, even from afar.

07/09/2025

It’s Therapeutic Recreation Week! In recognition of it, we’re celebrating the incredible impact of recreational therapy in helping our patients recover, rebuild and rediscover what brings them joy. From adaptive games to dancing and golf, our therapy teams are here to help our patients get back to the recreations they love — proving that recreation is more than fun; it’s therapy.

07/08/2025

Alex Franco was admitted to Encompass Health following a cardiac stent placement. Upon arrival, Alex wanted to get back to doing the things he loves, such exercising, biking and gardening. Alex was also accustomed to starting his mornings with a headstand. He shared that he was doing a headstand every morning prior to his condition. This was a goal for him when he arrived at our hospital - and our team helped him achieve it. Thank you, Alex, for trusting us with your care!

07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day from Encompass Health! Today, we celebrate freedom in every form — especially the hard-earned victories of our patients as they regain strength, confidence and independence.

Across our hospitals, ringing the independence bell marks more than a discharge — it’s a powerful symbol of determination, recovery and the next chapter. Wishing everyone a safe, meaningful and hopeful Fourth of July!

07/03/2025

The kitchen is said to be the heart of the home and the center of family gatherings. Because of that, it is essential to ensure it’s a safe, accessible space, especially for older adults. Falls and burns are the leading causes of household injuries amongst seniors. These tips can help you address safety concerns in the home early.


The kitchen can become unsafe as you get older. Kitchen safety for seniors is possible if you follow some of these tips.

06/30/2025

Does advanced age or limited mobility have you concerned about planning your next great getaway? Being a certain age or living with a disability can present challenges when traveling, but today there are more options than ever for those with limited mobility. With some advanced planning, you can visit the destination of your dreams be it by plane, train or automobile.

✈️ Traveling by plane:
- Arrive early. Allow two to three hours for domestic flights and more if traveling internationally.
- Book a wheelchair when you are booking your flight, and let your airline know at check in that you reserved a wheelchair.
- If you require a wheelchair during the flight, the request must be made 48 hours in advance.

🚂 Traveling by train:
- Check to see if discounts apply. Some rail companies offer discounts to those with disabilities or caregivers.
- Be sure to book wheeled mobility device space, wheelchair transfer accessible seats and accessible bedrooms.
- Make sure you to have your proof of disability with you.

🚘️ Traveling by automobile
- Swivel car cushions can help assist you in getting in and out of the vehicle.
- If you use a wheelchair, scooter or powerchair, make sure the vehicle has a lift.
- Check public transportation and ride sharing programs in advance to ensure they have accessible vehicles.

06/27/2025

We celebrated national barbecue day at our hospital to show our staff appreciation. Our staff enjoyed various barbecue trimmings and sides from All We Do is Wing .

Thank you to our employee engagement committee for planning this event.

06/25/2025

Congratulations to Joma Tagupa, certified rehabilitation registered nurse, for being named as a recipient of The DAISY Award! We are so proud of you, Joma. Thank you for your commitment to our hospital and our patients!

06/19/2025

During the sweltering summer months, it is vital to stay hydrated, especially for older adults. As we age, our bodies don't retain water as they once did, so hydration is more important than ever. A registered dietitian shares tips to help you and your loved one stay hydrated this summer and beyond.

A registered dietitian explains the link between dehydration and aging and why the risk of dehydration increases with age.

06/12/2025

Healthy eating does not have to be bland or complicated if you have diabetes; you can still enjoy delicious meals in moderation. To ensure you are getting all the benefits that comes with healthy eating, a dietitian shares how reading food labels and planning meals can help manage your blood sugar.

Healthy eating and meal planning for diabetics can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Try these practical tips to eat well and keep your blood...

05/29/2025

Did you know that having a stroke can put you at a greater risk for a second stroke? If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, these three strategies could help lower your risk of a having another one.

3 Strategies To Prevent A Second Stroke - Our experts explain what the odds of a second stroke are and what you can do to reduce them.