Cherokee County Health and Rehab Highlights Expanded Services, New Programs, and Community Focus
CENTRE — Cherokee County Health and Rehab is continuing to expand its services and resident-centered care initiatives, according to Social Services staff members Kim Compton and Sonya Pace, who recently discussed facility operations during an appearance on WEIS Radio’s morning show with Jerry Baker.
You can listen to the interview here:
Compton and Pace said they appreciate opportunities to share information about the facility and the wide range of services available to residents, noting that “no two days are ever the same” in their work supporting patients and families.
Expanding Onsite Medical Services
A key focus of the facility is reducing the need for residents to travel offsite for routine specialty care. Compton and Pace explained that Cherokee County Health and Rehab maintains an onsite rotation of physicians and specialists who visit the facility quarterly.
These services include optometry, podiatry, dental, and audiology care, allowing residents to receive essential health services without the challenges of external transportation.
In addition, psychiatric services are provided onsite on a weekly basis. Staff emphasized the importance of mental health care alongside physical health, noting that consistent behavioral health support is a vital part of overall resident well-being.
Personalized Resident Support
Beyond medical care, the Social Services department provides day-to-day assistance to help residents maintain comfort and independence while living at the facility. This includes support with managing personal finances and coordinating monthly outings to local stores for personal shopping needs.
Staff say these efforts are designed to ensure residents maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity while receiving care, reinforcing the idea that the facility serves as a home environment rather than solely a medical setting.
“Caring Connections” Program Enhances Engagement
The Director of Nursing has recently introduced a new initiative titled “Caring Connections,” aimed at strengthening personal relationships between staff and residents.
Under the program, selected employees—referred to as “Caring Ambassadors”—are assigned to specific residents to conduct regular friendly check-ins. These visits focus on comfort, companionship, and emotional well-being, and are intentionally structured so that ambassadors are not part of the resident’s direct care team, allowing for fresh interactions and new relationships.
Compton and Pace said the program has been implemented within the last few weeks and has already been well received by residents and staff alike.
Enrichment Activities and Community Outings
Cherokee County Health and Rehab also continues to prioritize recreational and enrichment opportunities for residents. The facility organizes outings to local and regional destinations, giving residents opportunities to participate in activities outside of the facility.
Last year, residents visited the Tennessee Aquarium, and interest has been expressed in planning a trip to the zoo this year.
These outings are supported in part by a newly acquired wheelchair-accessible transport van provided through the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals Transportation Project. Staff say the vehicle has significantly improved their ability to transport multiple residents safely and efficiently to appointments and community events.
In addition to group outings, the vehicle also assists with transporting outpatient rehabilitation patients, expanding access to care beyond those currently residing at the facility.
Nursing Home Week Celebration Planned
Looking ahead, Cherokee County Health and Rehab is preparing for National Nursing Home Week, scheduled for May 10 through May 15, under the theme “Bloom Where You Are Planted.”
Staff described the week as one of the most anticipated events of the year, featuring daily activities, themed celebrations, and facility-wide decorations designed to encourage engagement among residents.
The event also serves as an opportunity for residents to connect with one another and participate in structured social activities within the facility.
Commitment to Community and Care
Compton and Pace said the facility remains deeply committed to serving Cherokee County and surrounding communities, offering a broad range of care options including independent living support, specialty care, memory care, skilled nursing services, and both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.
They emphasized that the facility welcomes tours and encourages families to learn more about available services. Information can be found through the facility’s website at https://mycchrc.org/ or by contacting admissions or the Social Services department directly.
The Social Services team also noted additional responsibilities, including child care support for employees in need and quarterly sponsor meetings and luncheons. These meetings provide updates on facility operations and offer families an opportunity to ask questions and stay informed about their loved ones’ care.
“A Place That Feels Like Home”
Throughout the discussion, Compton and Pace stressed that their mission extends beyond clinical care, focusing instead on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every resident.
“We want to make sure that they all feel comfortable, welcome, and at home,” they said, emphasizing that the facility is intended to be a place where residents feel valued and supported in every aspect of their daily lives.
For more information about services or to schedule a tour, interested individuals are encouraged to contact Cherokee County Health and Rehab or visit the facility’s website.
