Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport named Encompass Health’s 2026 Hospital of the Year

Oct. 21, 2026 – Encompass Health Corp., the nation's largest owner and operator of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, has named Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport, a joint venture of Ballad Health and Encompass Health, its 2026 Hospital of the Year. The award honors one hospital annually for outstanding performance across key measures that support patient outcomes, patient experience, employee engagement, retention and patient safety. Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport was selected from among Encompass Health's nearly 180 hospitals nationwide.

The recognition comes during the hospital's 35th anniversary year and reflects decades of dedication to helping patients throughout northeast Tennessee and surrounding communities recover from serious injuries and illnesses.

"As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, this recognition reflects the dedication our team brings to every patient and family we serve," said Cody Murdock, CEO of Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport. "Our employees work every day to help patients regain independence and return to the activities that matter most to them. We are proud of this achievement and grateful to be part of the Kingsport community."

Hospitals across the Encompass Health system are evaluated using multiple performance measures. Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport excelled across all categories, earning a patient net promoter score of 83.7 and an employee engagement score of 91.8%. The Hospital of the Year recognition builds on a sustained record of success, with Kingsport earning numerous regional awards for annual and quarterly performance in recent years.

"The Kingsport team consistently delivers exceptional care," said Abe Sims, president of Encompass Health's MidAtlantic region. "Their commitment to quality, safety and patient outcomes sets a high standard across our organization. This recognition is well deserved."

Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport opened in 1991 and serves patients recovering from strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and other complex conditions. Patients receive a minimum of three hours of intensive physical, occupational and/or speech therapy at least five days each week. They also receive frequent physician visits and 24-hour nursing care. An interdisciplinary team of nurses, therapists and physicians develops individualized treatment plans to help patients achieve their recovery goals.