When it comes to recovery, having the right team behind you can make all the difference. At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Daytona Beach, that team approach is at the heart of everything they do.
“We offer compassionate care from an expert team of physical, occupational, and speech therapists; physicians; nurses; dietitians; pharmacists and case managers,” says Judy Parker. “They will work together to create a plan to help you meet your unique goals.”
This 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital is designed to help patients regain independence and return to their daily lives with confidence. With a structured program that includes three hours of therapy, five days a week, the focus is on meaningful progress and personalized care.
A Legacy of Care
Encompass Health has a long and evolving history in rehabilitation care. Originally founded in 1984 as HealthSouth, the organization grew rapidly, becoming the largest owner and operator of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals in the United States by 1996.
In 2018, the company rebranded as Encompass Health Corporation and today operates more than 180 hospitals across 36 states and Puerto Rico.
The Daytona Beach hospital is one of 25 locations in Florida and welcomed its first patient in July of 2026.
A Mission Rooted in People
For Judy, healthcare is more than a career; it’s a lifelong calling.
“Serving others is my life mission, and Encompass Health gives me the opportunity to fulfill my mission,” she shares.
Her journey began in 1982 as a hospital receptionist and has spanned decades, with a brief hiatus for service in the United States Army as a CH-47 helicopter mechanic and crew chief.
That experience, combined with personal moments as both a caregiver and a family member of patients, has shaped her leadership style.
“Being a family member of someone ill is very difficult,” she says. “When my family members have been in hospitals, I took away from each event and have incorporated lessons learned in my leadership style and expectations of myself and staff.”
The Power of Integrated Care
The philosophy behind Encompass Health is simple but powerful: better outcomes come from working together.
“We believe integrated care delivery across the healthcare continuum is critical to achieving the best outcomes for patients,” Judy explains. “We exist to provide a better way to care that elevates expectations and outcomes.”
This collaborative model ensures that both physical and medical needs are addressed. “While our physiatrists focus on your physical health, our team of medical physicians oversees your medical needs and recovery,” she shares.
Finding Joy in the Healing Process
Even in a hospital setting, the team works hard to create moments of joy.
“No one wants to be in the hospital, so making it fun is important to us,” Judy says.
From music playing throughout the facility to group therapy games, the environment is intentionally uplifting. Patients are also greeted by Theo, the therapy dog, and a spirited mascot named Floyd the Flamingo—part of a culture that encourages staff to be “Flamazing” every day.
One of the most meaningful traditions is the “clap out.”
“When a patient discharges home, we play a fun song overhead, staff come out… and clap for the patient,” she shares. “The patient rings a bell on the wall to signify their rehab stay completion.”
And sometimes, those celebrations come with a memorable twist.
“One of our young patients (89) was so excited to ring the bell that she actually pulled it out of the wall,” Judy laughs. “She definitely regained her strength in her rehab stay.”
A Message to the Community
With many options for rehabilitation care, Judy emphasizes the importance of being informed before you need services.
“We want you to know us before you need us,” she says. “We encourage everyone to come for a tour before any illness or injury arises so you can make an informed decision.”
In just the first six months, the hospital has already cared for more than 550 patients, ranging in age from 21 to 106. An early sign of the impact they are making in the community.
Rooted in Family
Outside of work, Judy’s life centers around family. She and her husband, Michael, have been together for nearly 20 years. Together, they enjoy time with their children, grandchildren, and a growing pack of furry companions—including two senior dogs and a tiny teacup Maltipoo named Lilly, who is training to become a comfort therapy dog.
