Business Development Director Natalie Welanetz takes a moment to share hospital history, resources and qualities that distinguish Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital from the competition.
Q: Briefly discuss a little of the hospital’s history.
A: Encompass Health is the nation’s largest owner and operator of rehabilitation hospitals, with a national footprint that includes more than 150 hospitals in 36 states and Puerto Rico. We provide advanced therapy to patients recovering from a serious illness or injury, such as strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and orthopedic conditions. Our hospital team provides physical, speech and occupational therapy to help patients return to their community as independently as possible, usually after a hospital stay of 10 to 12 days or less.
Q: Briefly discuss the hospital’s focus and how that focus distinguishes Encompass from other hospitals.
A: Inpatient rehabilitation hospitals serve as a next step for many patients who are ready to leave the acute-care hospital but need intensive rehabilitation and medical care before returning home. Unlike skilled nursing facilities, inpatient rehabilitation hospitals are required to provide at least three hours of therapy five days a week and access to physical medicine, rehabilitation physicians and rehabilitation equipment and technology that may not be available elsewhere.
Typically, inpatient rehabilitation hospitals have a shorter length of stay and discharge more patients to their homes than skilled nursing facilities. This means inpatient rehabilitation hospitals are able to help individuals return to their families, their jobs and their communities effectively and quickly.
Q: Does Encompass Health require doctors, nurses and supporting staff have to have any extra training, degrees or certificates?
A: Our clinicians and supporting staff maintain the same qualifications as acute hospital staff. Many of our nurses are certified rehabilitation registered nurses.
Q: How many types of rehabilitation treatment does Encompass Health offer?
A: Our hospital offers specialized stroke, spinal cord injury, orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation programs. Patients participate in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology and/or respiratory therapy based on their
needs. Therapy takes place in the comforting environment of our state-of-the-art hospital, which includes a therapy gym, activities of daily living suite and therapy courtyard. We are also equipped with a dialysis suite for patients in need of this service.
Q: Has the need for rehabilitation care increased, decreased or remained about the same as it was 100 years ago?
A: The need for rehabilitative care has increased as life expectancy and quality of life standards for the aging population have increased over the past century. Most people want to be able to continue the activities that matter most to them as they age, such as taking care of themselves independently, hobbies and playing with grandchildren. The rehabilitative care we provide to our patients helps them get back to their life after a debilitating injury or illness.
Rehabilitation is covered in full or part by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. The hospital has contracts with most major insurance companies and is willing to negotiate with other companies, as needed.
For more information, call 864.537.4600 or visit encompasshealth.com/locations/greenvillerehab.