Newsweek ranks Sentara Virginia Beach Inpatient Rehab 3rd in Virginia

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital has been recognized as having one of Virginia’s top inpatient rehabilitation programs in Newsweek and Statista’s 2025 ranking of America’s Best Physical Rehabilitation Centers. 

The hospital’s rehabilitation program earned the #3 spot in Virginia, highlighting Sentara’s commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care for individuals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery.

“I’m proud of the team. They love the patients and push them hard to get them back to their independence and goals,” said Kathleen Cebo, manager of rehab services at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital.

The 8-bed inpatient rehab serves as a bridge between the hospital and home. Patients are admitted after discharge from the hospital’s acute care side or from other hospitals in the region.

A multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and rehab therapists provide 24-hour care and intensive therapy to patients recovering from amputations, hip fractures, stroke, spinal injuries, and more. 

“Our average length of stay is about 10 to 14 days and patients participate in a daily and rigorous therapy schedule: 90 minutes of physical therapy, 90 minutes of occupational therapy, and speech therapy as needed,” said Cebo. 

Patients get access to specialized equipment and environments such as two gyms, a mock kitchen and car, and an outdoor garden. 

Active participation is essential. Patients must engage fully in therapy to remain in the program, as beds are reserved for those committed to recovery.

“I try to give 100% every day. And they give me a 110 %,” said patient Linda Shewbridge. “I live alone and I couldn't go home if they weren't working with me.”

After spending time in the hospital with a mass on her brain and lung cancer, Shewbridge’s acute care team deemed it necessary for her to undergo intensive, structured therapy. 

“I would not be here if it weren’t for Dr. Quilter. She got me into this program and believed in me from the beginning. The quality of care you get here, you're not going to get anywhere else.” 

Shewbridge looks forward to enjoying life and is grateful for the inpatient rehab team who is helping to make that possible.

Physical therapists helped Shewbridge strengthen her leg muscles and upper arms. They also helped her take her first steps in three months.

“They put me in a harness like I was going ziplining. My legs got to walk. It was a big day. It's been a while since I could even attempt to walk,” said Shewbridge.  

There are 28 inpatient rehab facilities in Virginia and since 2020, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital’s inpatient rehab has ranked consistently among the top 7 in the state. 

In 2023 and 2024, the program received the PEM Award from the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation. The PEM Award recognizes rehab programs that deliver high-quality, patient-centered care that is effective, efficient, and timely. 

“We’re on track to earn it again this year,” said Cebo. 

Out of more than 880 inpatient rehab facilities nationwide, the inpatient rehab at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital ranks in the top 10%, showing consistent excellence in helping patients recover and regain independence.

“The goal is to walk out of here on my own and live whatever life I have left to live,” said Shewbridge. “The only way it's going to happen is through here.”