April 10, 2026 — The Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio, a joint venture between Premier Health and Encompass Health, has appointed Connie “CJ” Kostecka as chief executive officer. Kostecka joins the rehabilitation hospital after 24 years with Premier Health.
“It is an honor to step into this position with Encompass Health and yet still remain in the Premier Health family,” Kostecka said. “I know the powerful impact The Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio has on patients and their families. I look forward to leading the hospital’s expert team of clinicians and advancing the high-quality rehabilitative care we provide.”
Kostecka brings more than 30 years of nursing leadership experience to the CEO role. She previously served as Miami Valley Hospital’s associate chief nursing officer. In this role, Kostecka led complex clinical operations involving workforce strategy, quality and safety performance, and cross-disciplinary alignment with nursing, therapy, physicians and case management. She was also responsible for nursing strategies, budget and organizational direction.
“CJ is a seasoned health care executive who brings not only expertise in nursing and hospital operations but also a passion for patient-centered care,” said Mat Gooch, president of Encompass Health’s Northeast region. “She values building strong teams and has a proven ability to lead. CJ will have tremendous success at The Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio.”
Kostecka holds a master’s degree in health administration and a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership.
The Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio, located at 835 South Main Street, is a 60-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital that serves patients following a life-changing illness or injury. The hospital opened to patients in 2015 and holds Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certifications for Stroke and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation.