CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Beginning in January, patients across central Illinois—including the Champaign-Urbana region—will see expanded access to specialized inpatient rehabilitation thanks to a new partnership between Carle Health and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation. The collaboration aims to bring world-class treatment options, innovative technology and enhanced continuity of care to local communities as demand for rehabilitation services continues to grow.
Patients will continue receiving care from Carle providers they know and trust, now supported by Mary Free Bed’s nationally recognized rehabilitation expertise. The partnership spans three Carle locations: Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, Carle BroMenn Medical Center, and Carle Health Proctor Hospital.
“This is the first step toward our vision to expand inpatient rehab services to meet the growing need,” said Carle Health President and CEO Dr. James C. Leonard. “Partnering with Mary Free Bed allows patients to stay close to home while gaining access to advanced knowledge and proven care models.”
Mary Free Bed, a not-for-profit rehabilitation leader with more than 130 years of specialized experience, operates in over three dozen hospitals across multiple states and is consistently ranked among the nation’s best rehab providers. Its patient-centered approach closely aligns with Carle’s mission and values, said Mary Free Bed CEO Kent Riddle.
The partnership is expected to enhance outcomes for patients recovering from stroke, trauma, neurological conditions, complex medical issues, and more. Both organizations say they plan to continue investing in staff expertise, technology, and expanded resources to meet evolving community needs.
