Piedmont Macon Medical Center’s nationally recognized inpatient rehabilitation program showed significant gains in Newsweek’s annual survey of America’s Best Physical Rehabilitation Centers in 2023, jumping from fourth to second place in Georgia.

Just seven rehab facilities in Georgia landed on Newsweek’s list, and Piedmont Macon was the only facility in the midstate to make the cut. 

“We are thrilled” with the 2023 list, said Michelle Windham, rehab director at Piedmont Macon Medical and Piedmont Macon North Hospital. “A few things that separate our specific unit are our engaged staff and customer satisfaction. Someone once told me that nobody cares what you know until they know you care. Our team members’ dedication to our patients and their care help us consistently achieve successful outcomes.”

Newsweek joined with market research and consumer data firm Statista to look at more than 1,000 inpatient physical rehab centers across the country, recognizing just 280 of them this year. The results are based on a survey of experts, quality metrics and accreditation data, according to Newsweek’s website.

Piedmont Macon’s inpatient rehab program opened in April 1993 with 10 beds. Today, the program has nearly tripled its capacity with 29 beds. The program focuses on promoting wellness and a healthy life after hospitalization while helping patients overcome functional limitations from injury or illness. The Piedmont Macon team offers a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment that involves physicians, nurses, case managers and a variety of therapists, including physical, occupational, speech and recreation.

“Our staff operate with positive teamwork, champion patient-centered care and have a drive for being better day by day, which is how we got where we are,” Windham said. “I am incredibly proud to be a part of such an amazing team who not only believes in but lives the Piedmont Promise of making a positive difference in each life we touch.”