Encompass Health Corporation was founded in 1984 in Birmingham, Alabama, originally operating under the name HealthSouth Corporation. It began with a focus on delivering inpatient rehabilitation services, quickly growing into one of the largest providers in the country. In 2018, the company rebranded as Encompass Health to better reflect its nationwide presence and integrated approach to rehabilitative care. This rebranding unified its operations and clarified its mission of providing comprehensive, patient-focused rehabilitation services.
The company specializes in operating inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, offering intensive therapy for patients recovering from conditions such as strokes, neurological disorders, spinal cord injuries, joint replacements, and other complex medical events. Encompass Health facilities provide a high level of care, typically involving three hours of therapy five days per week, around-the-clock nursing, and frequent physician oversight. Its network spans over 160 hospitals across 38 states and Puerto Rico, making it the largest provider of inpatient rehabilitation services in the United States.
Encompass Health is known for its clinical quality and use of evidence-based treatment protocols. Many of its hospitals have earned certifications from The Joint Commission for disease-specific care, including for stroke and hip fracture rehabilitation. The company's scale and consistency have made it a leader in rehabilitative outcomes, with approximately one-third of all U.S. inpatient rehabilitation patients receiving care at its facilities. Its reputation is built on measurable patient progress and a commitment to continuous improvement in rehabilitation practices.
The company continues to expand its national footprint by opening new hospitals and forming joint ventures with acute-care providers. In 2022, Encompass Health spun off its home health and hospice segment into a separate publicly traded company, Enhabit, allowing it to sharpen its focus exclusively on inpatient rehabilitation. Looking ahead, it aims to leverage data analytics and clinical research to enhance patient outcomes, reduce readmissions, and develop predictive tools that support more personalized and effective rehabilitation care.