Encompass Health

08/12/2025

When Lynn Lewis came to our Pensacola rehabilitation hospital after a fall, her goal was about more than recovery—it was about reclaiming her life. Living with Parkinson’s disease had made it harder for her to enjoy the activities she loves, especially dancing.

With the support of her physical therapist, Lindsay Harrison, who is certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, Lynn was able to share a special moment during her therapy: A foxtrot with her husband.

Using the Bioness Vector System, Lynn practiced big, coordinated steps in a safe, supportive environment designed to reduce her risk of future falls and build her confidence.

Every person's recovery is unique, and we’re honored to he there to help our patients get back to everyday tasks as well as those that bring them joy.

Thank you, Lynn, for trusting us with your care.

08/11/2025

Mr. John came to Encompass Plano for a fresh start after he had spinal surgery and was ready to get back to his daily routine. With his occupational therapist, Amber, Mr. John began practicing self care while using adaptive equipment. With a focus on ambulating with a rolling walker to complete tasks in and out of his room, he eventually began stair training to prepare for home. Mr. John has made great strides in his recovery and looks forward to return home independent! Way to go John!

08/11/2025

With summer comes longer, sunnier days and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. But during the hottest months, you may need to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illness, especially if you are 65 or older. Learn the symptoms of common heat-related illnesses and get tips on how to prevent them.

08/08/2025

In May 2023, Kathy Estrada and her husband were ready to welcome their son, when what had been a normal pregnancy turned into a medical emergency that almost ended Kathy’s life.

After 30 days in the ICU and having to have all her toes amputated, her doctors determined she was ready for the next step in her recovery. Kathy insisted she go to our rehabilitation hospital in Miami. Afterall, that’s where she is director of pharmacy and experiences the life-changing impact of rehabilitation on a daily basis.

“I felt a sense of urgency,” she said. “The doctor who saved my life reminded me that I almost died, and I needed to stay in the ICU. He helped me remain calm, and about two weeks later he made sure I was admitted to my hospital.”

Today, Kathy is back as director of pharmacy, and her most important job of all, being mom.

After a complicated pregnancy, inpatient rehabilitation helped Kathy reach newfound independence to care for her baby and return to work.

08/07/2025

We're delighted to announce plans to build a freestanding, 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Haslet, Texas. Expected to open in 2027, this state-of-the-art hospital will serve patients recovering from debilitating illnesses and injuries, including strokes and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and other complex orthopedic conditions.

“We are excited to further expand Encompass Health’s presence in Texas,” said Brad Kennedy, Encompass Health group president. “We look forward to beginning construction of the hospital in Haslet so we can progress toward opening its doors and bringing high-quality inpatient rehabilitative care to the community.”

08/07/2025

Your furry friend does more than bring joy; they can also benefit your heart. Whether it’s getting in a brisk walk with your furry friend or just having a companion, pets can encourage movement and reduce stress. Learn how your pet may be boosting your heart health.

Research shows that owning a pet has positive health benefits

08/05/2025

Each quarter, our President and CEO Mark Tarr provides a company update for employees. His latest update includes a conversation about the launch of our new website. Check it out to learn what’s been happening at Encompass Health!

08/05/2025

Meet Mechell Mathews.

After undergoing surgery, Mechell was admitted to our Shreveport, Louisiana hospital to recover from an infection. When she arrived, she needed help with even the simplest daily tasks. But Mechell was determined to regain her independence.

Through hard work, dedication and the support of our incredible rehabilitation team, Mechell made remarkable progress. Now, she’s looking forward to getting back to the things she loves most — like fishing and spending time with her father.

Her journey is a reminder of how inpatient rehabilitation can help people rebuild their strength and return to the life they love. Congratulations, Mechell! 👏

08/04/2025

Staying up to date on vaccinations isn’t just for school-aged children or those traveling to exotic destinations. As you get
older, you could be at a higher risk of developing complications from certain illnesses; immunizations could help protect you and reduce these risks. Learn which ones you should consider getting if you are 50 or older and always consult your doctor when considering which are right for you.

As you age, your immune system declines in its ability to fight off harmful pathogens. Learn more about the benefits and recommendation of vaccines as you get older.

08/04/2025

Join us for our free virtual Continuing Education Lecture Series. This month, our chief medical officer, Dr. Elissa Charbonneau, will discuss how technology is transforming the lives of our patients.

Topic: New Technology in Rehabilitation
Speaker: Dr. Elissa Charbonneau, DO
Chief Medical Officer, Encompass Health
Dates/Times: Monday, Aug. 11 - Noon and 6 p.m. CT
Thursday, Aug. 14 - 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT

One hour credit available for PT, OT, LVN, RN, CCM, SW, SLP

Register: https://ehc.rehab/3HaK78D

07/31/2025

Have you noticed the foods you once enjoyed don’t quite taste the same? As you get older, your taste buds change for many reasons — some natural, others linked to health conditions or medications. Without the right guidance, these changes can affect your appetite and overall well-being. A registered dietitian shares tips on how to keep your meals tasty as well as healthy as you age.

Why Does Your Sense of Taste Change as You Age? Find out how aging, the olfactory system and other factors can affect taste.

07/30/2025

We are excited to announce that we are expanding our national footprint to Cleveland, Tennessee. This new 40-bed freestanding inpatient rehabilitation hospital will serve as a satellite location to our Chattanooga, Tennessee hospital and will allow us to help more individuals in need of our care in the area. The hospital is expected to open in 2026, and will serve those recovering from life changing illnesses and injuries, such as stroke, other neurological conditions and complex orthopedic conditions.

07/29/2025

Timothy James was admitted to our hospital after having a stroke. Upon arrival, he could not sit, stand, walk or complete basic activities of daily living. He also had little to no movement in his left leg and arm. Tim shared, "This place is a lifesaver, and the culture here is contagious as each therapist provided stroke education and uplifted me to walk out of here." Thank you, Tim, for choosing Encompass Health for your stroke rehabilitation. Congratulations on meeting your goals of walking and discharging back home!

07/28/2025

Sometimes the best medicine comes in the form of our four-legged friends and family. That’s why our animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted therapy programs at our hospitals are an integral part of the recovery process. From having trained animals assist in your therapy to setting up visits with your own pet, our locations offer a variety of ways to incorporate pets into your rehabilitation.

07/24/2025

Did you know that playing board games could improve brain health and help prevent dementia in older adults? It is a great way to increase working memory and cognitive function as you age. So grab a partner and pick your favorite game. Whether it’s Chess, Scrabble or Checkers, let us know your favorite in the comments.

Games of your youth may be valuable as you age. Play these brain games to prevent dementia and exercise the mind.

07/22/2025

Encompass Health Plano partnered with Carter BloodCare to host a blood drive and support the ongoing need for blood donations during the summer months. Blood drives play a vital role in helping patients in local hospitals by providing lifesaving support after accidents, surgeries or illness. Donations also benefit individuals with blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and those undergoing cancer treatment. We are proud to support our community in such an impactful way.

07/21/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Timber on becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse!

This prestigious certification reflects her advanced expertise in supporting individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses as they work toward recovery and independence. We’re proud of Timber’s commitment to professional growth and her dedication to delivering exceptional care. Way to go! 👏

07/18/2025

To celebrate reaching hospital metrics, the leadership team hosted a barbecue appreciation lunch. Kevin, Luiz, Leesha and Ashlin served staff a hot meal while employees gathered to fellowship in the cafe.

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

Our director of therapy operations, Moki, is shown educating our marketing team on our latest advanced therapy technology. The Bioness Vector® is an innovative system designed to improve balance and movement impairments. The Vector allows you to defy gravity by performing over-ground activities such as steps, squats, stair-climbing and lunges all while being safely supported.

07/14/2025

After experiencing cognitive and physical weakness, Shannon Strickland came to Encompass Health with one goal: to walk again. With the support and encouragement of her care team, Shannon reached a major milestone and was able to rebuild her strength, confidence and independence.

We’re so proud to be a part of your recovery, Shannon!

07/11/2025

Congratulations to our certified therapists!

We are proud to recognize our dedicated team members who have recently earned their certifications in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment LOUD and Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG.

These specialized courses are designed to help therapy professionals build confidence in treating individuals with Parkinson’s disease and a variety of other neurological conditions

Please join us in congratulating:

• Occupational therapists: Kesia and Ashley
• Physical therapists: Caron, Mital, Mindy and Rhushika
• Speech therapist: Tracy

Your commitment to excellence and continued learning to better serve our patients is inspiring!