May 1, 2026 — As Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Greenville expands its footprint, Stroke Program Director Christopher Childs, M.D., is looking forward to the increased support that will soon be available to stroke patients.
Childs discovered his passion for stroke rehabilitation through his wife, a physical therapist who worked in inpatient rehabilitation during his medical training. Today, he works with stroke patients, guiding them through medication education and helping them understand what life at home may look like with new neurological deficits.
“Our education and focus on the patient are so important to how we can impact our patients' lives even once they are discharged,” Childs said.
Childs also plays a key role in strengthening the interdisciplinary approach at Encompass Health Greenville. He tracks and analyzes patient data tied to quality indicators such as oral hygiene, bladder continence and family training. This data helps the team refine care plans and improve outcomes for stroke survivors.
The interdisciplinary model is supported by a growing suite of advanced rehabilitation technologies — from body-weight support systems to virtual reality — helping patients safely relearn mobility and practice meaningful daily activities. Speech therapists use specialized equipment to assess and strengthen swallowing, ensuring patients receive the safest and most effective care during recovery.
“These tools allow us to meet patients exactly where they are in their recovery,” said Ashley Harris, a hospital occupational therapist. “Whether someone needs total support to relearn basic movements or is ready for higher-level challenges, we have technology that helps them feel safe, motivated and capable. It's incredibly empowering for our patients.”
In addition to new technology, the hospital offers several resources to support patients and caregivers, including a growing stroke support group. Former patients volunteer to meet with current survivors, offering guidance during the transition from hospital to home. The team is also exploring ways to expand outreach by having former stroke survivors connect with newly discharged patients and invite them to support group meetings.
The hospital's ongoing expansion project will increase the number of patient beds, creating more opportunities to serve stroke patients and enhance rehabilitation services. Throughout American Stroke Month in May, Encompass Health Greenville is also hosting events to raise awareness of strokes, provide education and celebrate survivors. The activities include Know the Signs community event happening May 5, a survivor painting session and a lunch-and-learn for stroke survivors focused on stroke prevention, recovery and healthy eating.
“I am hopeful, as we expand, our stroke support group will continue to expand with the hospital,” Childs said. “The new spaces provided by the expansion will give us further opportunities to continue our community outreach efforts in supporting our stroke patients.”
With a growing team, expanded facilities and a commitment to patient-centered rehabilitation, Encompass Health Greenville is positioning itself to support stroke survivors at every stage of recovery.