Why Choose Shepherd

A patient in a wheelchair with medical equipment smiles as a caregiver adjusts a device on them. The caregiver is wearing a black shirt and smiling, creating a positive atmosphere in a hospital setting.

World-class specialty care

For individuals facing brain or spinal cord injuries, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions, Shepherd Center offers comprehensive care, cutting-edge research, and dedicated family support. As a standalone facility, we combine unmatched expertise with compassion, offering neurorehabilitation that inspires hope and empowers patients to reach their full potential — with heart and humor every step of the way.

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Quick facts about Shepherd

  • Family-founded in 1975
  • 152 inpatient beds, including an onsite ICU
  • Consistently ranked among top rehabilitation hospitals by U.S. News
  • A top-performing hospital for low readmission rates
  • Expert, board-certified medical professionals in rehab medicine, neurology, and critical care
  • Designated Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research

Your one-stop resource for extraordinary care

With its complete continuum of care, Shepherd Center draws patients from all over the country and beyond. In fact over half of our patients come from outside Georgia. From acute medical services to inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, lifelong support, and beyond, we’re with you at every stage of recovery. Our “value-added” programs exceed the typical rehab experience, offering unparalleled support and resources.

Our specialized services include recreation therapy, family training, chaplaincy, assistive technology, peer support, family housing, transition support, and school reentry programs. We also provide unique care programs for adolescents, patients who use ventilators to breathe, those with low-level brain injuries, neuromuscular conditions, and advanced rehabilitation for patients progressing further in their recovery journey.

Annual patient impact

965

Inpatient discharges

247

ICU transfers from other hospitals

46k+

Outpatient visits

Where expert care meets hope

A ceiling tile with a hand-painted quote in blue and pink letters:
Staff, patients, and caregivers share how the culture at Shepherd Center is fueled by progress, inclusiveness, and human connection, uniting individuals from all walks of life.

Achieving exceptional outcomes

Higher volumes lead to more specialized expertise. Unlike most rehabilitation hospitals, Shepherd Center specializes in treating patients with severe injuries, driving industry-leading outcomes. While only 11% of rehab patients nationwide have traumatic injuries, 66% of ours do — a testament to our specialization.

Patient Outcomes
Patient Satisfaction

Choosing the right rehabilitation center for your care

Selecting a rehabilitation hospital is a critical part of your recovery journey. Understanding the services, care levels, and expertise offered can help you make an informed decision that best meets your needs. Below is a comparison of care levels available at different types of rehabilitation facilities, highlighting key distinctions in therapy intensity, nursing care, and specialty programs.

This table compares three types of rehabilitation facilities—Specialty Rehab Hospital, Traditional Rehabilitation Facility (IRF), and Long-Term Care Hospital (LTCH)—to help patients and families choose the right option based on their needs.
Feature Catastrophic specialty rehabilitation hospital Traditional inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) Traditional long-term care hospital (LTCH)
Focus Highly specialized, intensive rehabilitation for complex conditions and catastrophic injuries Short-term rehabilitation for serious injuries, surgeries, or illnesses Extended care for chronic illnesses and complex medical needs
Goal of rehabilitation Regain independence and reintegrate into the community Improve daily function Stabilize and manage long-term conditions
Rehabilitation services Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, vocational rehab, recreation therapy, psychological services, assistive technology, seating clinic, driving program, and long-term follow-up care Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, vocational rehab, recreation therapy, psychological services Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological services
Education support Patient and family education; school support for children (under 18) Limited family training and patient education Patient and family education as needed
Nursing care 24/7 care with nurses certified in rehab nursing (CRRN) 24/7 nursing care 24/7 nursing care
Amount of therapy 1–3 hours/day, progressing to 3+ hours/day (5–6 days/week) 3 hours/day (5 days/week) 1–3 hours/day (3–5 days/week)
Respiratory care 24/7 respiratory therapy, including ventilator weaning support Limited respiratory therapy support 24/7 respiratory therapy, including ventilator weaning support
A healthcare worker assists a patient in a hospital room. The patient is seated in a specialized wheelchair connected to medical equipment. The worker adjusts a device, while various monitors are visible in the background.

You have the right to choose your rehabilitation facility

While it’s common to rely on your healthcare provider for guidance, open communication is key to finding the best path to recovery. Talk with your physician, explore all treatment options, and involve your loved ones in the decision-making process. Asking questions and seeking clarity will help you make informed choices about your care.

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