HealthSouth Deaconess Rehabilitation Hospital is proud to announce Kim Gerling, PTA and Outpatient Coordinator, as our 2010 Employee of the Year. She is now one of five employees from HealthSouth's nationwide network of hosptials competing for the 2010 Outstanding Employee Achievement Award.

Kim has worked at HealthSouth Deaconess Rehabilitation Hospital for 10 years. She began as a student; and after graduating in 2002, she became a part-time Physical Therapy Assistant. Then, she went on to a full-time position working in the outpatient and inpatient departments on the CVA (Stroke) team. In 2008, she was promoted to Outpatient Coordinator and has made great strides in improving patient satisfaction, outcomes and communication.

“She makes a lasting, positive impression on everyone she meets!” says Brett Hirt, PT, ATC and Director of Therapy Operations.

When asked how she felt after she learned of her award, Kim said, “I am completely overwhelmed and humbled. The best part of my job is to come to work each day and work with great people who are passionate about their jobs. When I go home each night, I hope I have helped to make someone’s life a little better!”

HealthSouth Deaconess is pleased to report patient outcomes for the 1st Quarter of 2011.

All Programs

• Average length of stay 15.1 days
• Average admission functional score 48
• Average functional improvement score 35.8
• Discharge to community 69.2%

Stroke Program

• Average length of stay 20.6 days
• Average admission functional score 40.5
• Average functional improvement score 35.9
• Discharge to community 60.7%