LaDessa Forrest
July 27, 2026 – LaDessa Forrest has been appointed market chief executive officer of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of West Valley. The hospital, under construction at 1400 North Avondale Blvd. in Avondale, Arizona, is a 60-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital opening in late 2026. Most recently, Forrest served as CEO of Encompass Health Valley of The Sun Rehabilitation Hospital. She brings more than 25 years of healthcare experience to the Company’s new hospital.
“There is a growing need for inpatient rehabilitation services in this area,” Forrest said. “As we look forward to opening Encompass Health West Valley, I am committed to advancing the high-quality care we will provide patients every day.”
Dominique Dedeaux
With Forrest’s move to the Company’s Avondale hospital, Dominique Dedeaux has been appointed as CEO of Encompass Health Valley of The Sun. She brings more than 20 years of healthcare experience to the role, including 10 years with Encompass Health. She has served as a business development director, associate administrator and interim CEO. Dedeaux has proven success building high-performing teams to support patient-centered cultures.
“Patients are our top priority at Encompass Health Valley of The Sun,” Dedeaux said. “I look forward to leading the outstanding hospital team and continuing to meet the unique needs of our patients.”
“Both of these women are strong, committed healthcare professionals who will lead our hospitals well,” said Kim Steward, president of Encompass Health’s West region. “LaDessa brings valuable insight and expertise as we expand our services in the area, and Dominique is uniquely skilled to drive operational excellence at Valley of The Sun.”
Forrest earned a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Newman University, a master’s degree in business administration and healthcare management from Western Governors University and a doctorate degree in occupational therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dedeaux earned a bachelor’s degree in cardiorespiratory care from the University of South Alabama and two master’s degrees in healthcare administration and business administration from Pfeiffer University.
Encompass Health provides essential rehabilitation services that help patients recovering from strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and complex orthopedic conditions regain functional ability, independence and quality of life. Patients receive a minimum of three hours of intensive physical, occupational and/or speech therapy five days each week, as well as frequent physician visits and 24-hour nursing care.