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Our Staff

Doctors

  • Angela Carbone, MD

    Hospital Medical Director
    Medical Director, Stroke

    • Practicing
      Since
      1997
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2004

    Hospital Medical Director

    About

    Dr. Carbone received her undergraduate degree from Indiana University Bloomington, Doctor of Medicine degree from Indiana University School of Medicine, and completed residency training at Northwestern University Medical School, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. She is a board-certified specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Her special interests include neurologic and neuromuscular rehabilitation, as well as cancer and palliative rehabilitation. She has expertise in the rehabilitation of stroke, spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury, and the non-surgical treatment of low back and neck injuries and other musculoskeletal injuries involving the upper and lower extremities.

    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1988 Indiana University, Undergraduate - Medicine

    1993 ndiana University School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine

    Residency

    1997 Northwestern University Medical School, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

    Certificates & Licenses

    Active member of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Active member of the Association of Academic Physiatrists Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

  • Mason Goodman, MD

    President of RHI Medical Staff

    • Practicing
      Since
      1984
    • Joined
      Staff In
      1992

    President of RHI Medical Staff

    About

    Mason Goodman, MD. Joined RHI as a consulting physician July 1992, being on of the initial consulting physicians specializing in internal and Pulmonary medicine. He currently provides Inpatient and Outpatient services for Pulmonary Medicine.

    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1970 Indiana University, Undergraduate - Medicine

    1972 Indiana University School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine

    Residency

    1976 Parkland Hospital

    Certificates & Licenses

    American Board in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Allergy & Immunology

  • Julie Chow, MD

    Staff Physiatrist

    • Practicing
      Since
      2016
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2016

    Staff Physiatrist

    About

    Dr. Chow has expertise in the rehabilitation of spinal cord injury, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spasticity management including botulinum toxin injections and intrathecal baclofen pump management.

    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    2004 University of Pennsylvania, Undergraduate - Medicine

    2010 University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Doctor of Medicine

    Residency

    2012 Northwestern University Medical School

    2015 Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

    2016 University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital/Jackson Health System, Fellowship Training

    Certificates & Licenses

    Certified Specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Spinal Cord Injury Medicine

  • Shashank Davé, DO

    Staff Physiatrist
    Outpatient Physician Liaison for Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

    • Practicing
      Since
      2005
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2005

    Staff Physiatrist

    About

    Dr. Davé is board certified in both Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine. His clinical interest include musculoskeletal medicine, fluoroscopic interventional pain procedures, and electromyogram (EMG) testing. Dr. Davé's research interest include botulinum toxin, spasticity, and sports medicine.

    Research & Innovation
    • Authored numerous manuscripts and book chapters
    • Edited a book on Sports Medicine
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1996 Loyola University, Osteopathic Medicine

    2001 Midwestern University/Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

    Residency

    2005 Loyola University Medical Center

    2002 Midwestern University/Resurrection St. Francis Hospital

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Board Certified in Pain Medicine

  • Sheryl Katta-Charles, MD

    Medical Director, Brain Injury Program

    • Practicing
      Since
      2015
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2015

    Medical Director, Brain Injury Program

    About

    Sheryl Katta-Charles, M.D. completed residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan/Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. She received her medical doctorate degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies and her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago where she studied learning, memory, neuroendocrine hormones and behavior in rodents. She currently cares for patients with traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana. When she is not working, Dr. Charles enjoys running, traveling, watching movies with her husband, and playing with her new baby girl.

    Honors & Awards
    • Resident of the Year at Wayne State University, 2015
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    2006 Biology and Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago

    2011 MD, St. George's University School of Medicine

    2015 Residency, Wayne State University, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

    Residency

    2015 Residency, Wayne State University, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Indiana State Medical Licensure

  • Flora McConnell Hammond, MD

    Chief of Medical Affairs
    Brain Injury Medical Co-Director

    • Practicing
      Since
      1995
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2009

    Chief of Medical Affairs

    About

    Flora Hammond, MD joined RHI November 2009 as the Chief Medical Affairs. She is the Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University School of Medicine. From 1995-2009, she worked at Carolinas Rehabilitation in Charlotte, North Carolina where she served as the Brain Injury Medical Director and Research Director. Dr. Hammond graduated from medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine and completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine. She completed a brain injury medicine fellowship at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Her research in the area of brain injury includes studying the prediction of outcome, aging with brain Injury, causes of and treatments for irritability, and quality of relationships.

    Research & Innovation
    • Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University
    • Research in the areas of brain injury iclude: prediction of outcome, aging with brain injury, causes of and treatments of irritability, and quality of relationships
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1986 Tulane University, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

    1990 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    1994 Wayne State University, Brain Injury Medicine Fellowship

    Residency

    1990-1994 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician (Physiatrist)

  • Audrey Chun, M.D.

    Staff Physiatrist-Spinal Cord Injury

    • Practicing
      Since
      2020
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2020

    Staff Physiatrist-Spinal Cord Injury

    About

    Audrey Chun, M.D. received her medical doctorate degree at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, NY. She also completed her residency training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and fellowship training in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine. Chun received her undergraduate degree in Biology at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. She cares for patients with traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injuries with an interest in spinal cord research and spasticity management at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana. When she is not working, Dr. Chun enjoys cooking, traveling, art and music.

    Honors & Awards
    • Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance (MSH)
    • Kristjan Ragnarsson Resident of the Year Graduation Award, 2019
    • American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA)
    • Anthony F. DiMarco, MD Resident/Fellowship Research Award, 2019
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    2011 BA, Biology, Concentration in Animal Physiology, Cornell University

    2018 MD, Icahn School of Medicine @ Mt. Sinai (ISMMS)

    Residency

    2019 Mt. Sinai Hospital - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

    Certificates & Licenses

    American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation American Spinal Injury Association Medical License

    Location

    RHI Eagle Highlands
    4141 Shore Drive 
    Indianapolis, IN 46254

  • James Pastrnak, MD

    Cancer Rehabilitation Staff Physician

    • Practicing
      Since
      2020
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2021

    Cancer Rehabilitation Staff Physician

    About

    James graduated college at Purdue University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. He went on to graduate from medical school at Indiana University and completed his Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency at University of Michigan. Upon completion of residency, James trained an additional year at the University of Michigan for a fellowship in Oncology Rehabilitation. Along with Dr. Laura Prince, James will be helping Indiana University develop a Cancer Rehabilitation Program, caring for cancer survivors of both at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana and at Indiana University's Cancer Centers. When he is not working, James enjoys spending time with his family and participating/watching sports.

    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    2016 Indiana University, Medical Doctorate

    2012 Purdue University, Biomedical Engineering

    Residency

    2020 University of Michigan

Neuropsychologists

  • Bradley Hufford, PhD

    Clinical Director for Neuropsychology Department
    Clinical Neuropsychologist

    • Practicing
      Since
      2001
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2003

    Clinical Director for Neuropsychology Department

    About

    Bradley Hufford, Ph.D. joined RHI March 2003 as an independent allied health staff member specializing in neuropsychology for inpatient rehabilitation. Areas of interest include neuropsychological testing, individual and group psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and providing family/patient education about neurological injuries. Dr. Hufford received his undergraduate degree from Butler University, Indianapolis, IN, Master of Science and Doctorate degrees from Purdue School of Science, Indianapolis, IN. He has participated in several research studies, and authored and co-authored numerous publications and presentations.

    Research & Innovation
    • Participated in several research studies
    • Authored and co-authored numerous publications and presentations
    Education & Experience
    Education

    1991 Butler University

    1997 Purdue School of Science - Master of Science

    2000 Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis - PhD

  • Samantha Backhaus, PhD

    Associate Director - Outpatient
    Clinical Neuropsychologist

    • Practicing
      Since
      2005
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2005

    Associate Director - Outpatient

    About

    Samantha L. Backhaus, PhD is a Clinical Neuropsychologist. Her primary focus is working with adults who have acquired brain injuries, both providing neuropsychological assessments and formulating appropriate interdisciplinary treatment plans in assisting individuals reintegrate back to the community. Her passion is working with families as well, with the overall goal of the survivor achieving positive long-term outcome following brain injury. Dr. Backhaus developed a 16-week treatment intervention, the Brain Injury Coping Skills Group (BICS) that won the 2009 McDowell Award for Best Presentation presented by the American Society for Neurorehabilitation. She has completed several RTCs with publication on studies investigating this treatment and won one of the Healthcare Heroes of the Year in her community in 2001 for her work in neurorehabilitation. She is asked to teach this intervention to clinicians throughout the rehabilitation field, both nationally and internationally. She also developed a Peer Mentoring Program for brain injury survivors and family members, as well as chairs a support group called Bridging the Gap, specifically designed to meet the needs of families and caregivers in addition to survivors of BI. Currently, Dr. Backhaus is the primary investigator in developing a new program, in collaboration with other professionals, on improving marital quality and satisfaction after brain injury. This intervention will ultimately be manualized. Her primary interests include assisting individuals with brain injury to achieve better adaptation, social integration, perception of quality and satisfaction with life, and community and / or vocational reintegration on a long-term basis.

    Honors & Awards
    • Health Hero of the Year, 2011
    • McDowell Award, 2009
    Research & Innovation
    • Developed award winning, 16-week treatment intervention called the Brain Injury Coping Skills Group (BICS) and teaches intervention nationally and internationally
    • Developed a Peer Mentoring Program for brain injury survivors and family members
    • Chairs a support group called Bridging the Gap, designed to meet the needs of families and caregivers in addition to survivors of brain injury
    • Primary Investigator in developing a new program on improving marital quality and satisfaction after brain injury
    Education & Experience
    Education

    1994 Purdue University - Psychology

    1997 University of Colorado - Master of Clinical Psychology

    2002 Nova Southeastern University - Clinical Psychology Doctorate

Other Medical Staff

  • Rachel Milstead, P.A.

    Physician Assistant

    • Practicing
      Since
      2009
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2012

    Physician Assistant

    About

    Rachel Milstead joined RHI in 2012 as Physician Assistant. Prior to her time at RHI, Milstead was an Athletic Trainer at Hendricks Regional Hospital. Her education began at DePauw University with a degree in Kinesiology before moving to Butler University where she received an undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2008 DePauw University, Kinesiology

    2011 Butler University, Health Sciences

    2012 Butler University, Master of Physician Assistant Studies

  • Steven Smith, NP

    Nurse Practitioner

    • Practicing
      Since
      2012
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2018

    Nurse Practitioner

    About

    Steven Smith NP, joined RHI in 2018 as a Nurse Practitioner with a focus on Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Prior to his time at RHI, Smith was a registered nurse at St. Vincent Indianapolis Hospital beginning in 2012. For his education, Steven attended Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis for Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2018 Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, Master of Science Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Research Team

  • Flora McConnell Hammond, MD

    Chief of Medical Affairs
    Brain Injury Medical Co-Director

    • Practicing
      Since
      1995
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2009

    Chief of Medical Affairs

    About

    Flora Hammond, MD joined RHI November 2009 as the Chief Medical Affairs. She is the Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University School of Medicine. From 1995-2009, she worked at Carolinas Rehabilitation in Charlotte, North Carolina where she served as the Brain Injury Medical Director and Research Director. Dr. Hammond graduated from medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine and completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine. She completed a brain injury medicine fellowship at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Her research in the area of brain injury includes studying the prediction of outcome, aging with brain Injury, causes of and treatments for irritability, and quality of relationships.

    Research & Innovation
    • Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University
    • Research in the areas of brain injury iclude: prediction of outcome, aging with brain injury, causes of and treatments of irritability, and quality of relationships
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1986 Tulane University, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

    1990 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    1994 Wayne State University, Brain Injury Medicine Fellowship

    Residency

    1990-1994 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician (Physiatrist)

  • Devon Parrott, PhD

    Biostatistician

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2007

    Biostatistician

    About

    Dr. Parrott received her doctoral degree in Biomedical Informatics from Rutgers University with an emphasis on predictive modeling and biostatistics. She holds a Master’s Degree from Purdue University in Applied Statistics and a Master’s from Arizona State University in Clinical Research. She is responsible for overseeing program evaluation, quality assurance, and fidelity models across several programs and departments at NBIC including Resource Facilitation and Neuropsychology. Her role in the RTOC for Brain Injury involves developing translational research study designs, implementing successful findings, and monitoring quality and outcomes over time through program evaluation and patient follow-up. Dr. Parrott was awarded a research grant to study the feasibility of offering an evidence-based brain injury intervention called BICS, developed at NBIC, over an electronic platform allowing patients in remote areas of the state to participate in a brain injury intervention not otherwise available. She is an active member of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Statistical Association. She has authored several publications and has presented to national and international audiences on topics related to resource facilitation, brain injury rehabilitation, and predictive modeling.

    Honors & Awards
    • 2014 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine Travel Award
    • 3rd Place, Student Research Award Competition
    • Indiana Psychological Association Top 100 Outstanding Students Award (IUPUI)
    Education & Experience
    Education

    2012 MS Clinical Research Management, Arizona State University

    2014 MS Applied Statistics, Indiana University, Purdue University in Indianapolis

    2018 PhD Biomedical Informatics, Rutgers University

  • T. George Hornby, PhD

    Director of the Locomotor Recovery Laboratory

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2016

    Director of the Locomotor Recovery Laboratory

    About

    T. George Hornby, PhD has a background in neurophysiology, exercise science, and physical therapy, and is the Director of the Locomotor Recovery Laboratory.  The goals of his lab is to develop and test strategies that can optimize delivery of rehabilitation interventions to maximize locomotor a function in patients post-stroke, incomplete spinal cord injury, and brain injury. One research agenda to identify the appropriate training parameters (or dose) of exercise interventions that maximize improvements in neuromuscular and cardiopulmonary health and function.  We believe these physiological changes will result in improvement in performance of functional tasks, and ultimately result in increased community integration and participation.  Additional goals include the assessment of pharmacological or other exogenous stimuli on locomotor function and training efficacy. We utilize kinematic, kinetic and electrophysiological measures of motor function in intact individuals and those with neurological disease, and examine altered motor output to mechanical or electrical stimuli, pharmacological interventions, or exercise conditions. ​ He is also currently Director of Research for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy, and has authored numerous manuscripts in neurophysiology and physical rehabilitation.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2000 University of Pittsburgh, MPT Physical Therapy

    2000 PhD Physiological Sciences

  • Chris Henderson, PhD

    Research Assistant Professor

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2016

    Research Assistant Professor

    About

    Dr. Henderson has his PhD in Biomechanics and Movement Science, Doctorate of Physical Therapy, and Masters of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Delaware. He has also completed a Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency jointly supported by the Clement J Zablocki Veterans Affairs Hospital and Marquette University. Current projects and interests focus on optimizing physical therapy intervention parameters to facilitate improved walking function for individuals with neurologic conditions and developing strategies to translate evidence-based interventions into routine clinical practice.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2007 BE, XX, Mechanical Engineering

    2009 MS, University of Delaware, Mechanical Engineering

    2013 DPT, University of Delaware, Physical Therapy

    2015 PhD, University of Delaware, Biomechanics and Movement

    2016-2018 Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Indiana University

  • Samantha Backhaus, PhD

    Associate Director - Outpatient
    Clinical Neuropsychologist

    • Practicing
      Since
      2005
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2005

    Associate Director - Outpatient

    About

    Samantha L. Backhaus, PhD is a Clinical Neuropsychologist. Her primary focus is working with adults who have acquired brain injuries, both providing neuropsychological assessments and formulating appropriate interdisciplinary treatment plans in assisting individuals reintegrate back to the community. Her passion is working with families as well, with the overall goal of the survivor achieving positive long-term outcome following brain injury. Dr. Backhaus developed a 16-week treatment intervention, the Brain Injury Coping Skills Group (BICS) that won the 2009 McDowell Award for Best Presentation presented by the American Society for Neurorehabilitation. She has completed several RTCs with publication on studies investigating this treatment and won one of the Healthcare Heroes of the Year in her community in 2001 for her work in neurorehabilitation. She is asked to teach this intervention to clinicians throughout the rehabilitation field, both nationally and internationally. She also developed a Peer Mentoring Program for brain injury survivors and family members, as well as chairs a support group called Bridging the Gap, specifically designed to meet the needs of families and caregivers in addition to survivors of BI. Currently, Dr. Backhaus is the primary investigator in developing a new program, in collaboration with other professionals, on improving marital quality and satisfaction after brain injury. This intervention will ultimately be manualized. Her primary interests include assisting individuals with brain injury to achieve better adaptation, social integration, perception of quality and satisfaction with life, and community and / or vocational reintegration on a long-term basis.

    Honors & Awards
    • Health Hero of the Year, 2011
    • McDowell Award, 2009
    Research & Innovation
    • Developed award winning, 16-week treatment intervention called the Brain Injury Coping Skills Group (BICS) and teaches intervention nationally and internationally
    • Developed a Peer Mentoring Program for brain injury survivors and family members
    • Chairs a support group called Bridging the Gap, designed to meet the needs of families and caregivers in addition to survivors of brain injury
    • Primary Investigator in developing a new program on improving marital quality and satisfaction after brain injury
    Education & Experience
    Education

    1994 Purdue University - Psychology

    1997 University of Colorado - Master of Clinical Psychology

    2002 Nova Southeastern University - Clinical Psychology Doctorate

  • Sheryl Katta-Charles, MD

    Medical Director, Brain Injury Program

    • Practicing
      Since
      2015
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2015

    Medical Director, Brain Injury Program

    About

    Sheryl Katta-Charles, M.D. completed residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan/Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. She received her medical doctorate degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies and her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago where she studied learning, memory, neuroendocrine hormones and behavior in rodents. She currently cares for patients with traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana. When she is not working, Dr. Charles enjoys running, traveling, watching movies with her husband, and playing with her new baby girl.

    Honors & Awards
    • Resident of the Year at Wayne State University, 2015
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    2006 Biology and Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago

    2011 MD, St. George's University School of Medicine

    2015 Residency, Wayne State University, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

    Residency

    2015 Residency, Wayne State University, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Indiana State Medical Licensure

RHI Leadership

  • Flora McConnell Hammond, MD

    Chief of Medical Affairs
    Brain Injury Medical Co-Director

    • Practicing
      Since
      1995
    • Joined
      Staff In
      2009

    Chief of Medical Affairs

    About

    Flora Hammond, MD joined RHI November 2009 as the Chief Medical Affairs. She is the Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University School of Medicine. From 1995-2009, she worked at Carolinas Rehabilitation in Charlotte, North Carolina where she served as the Brain Injury Medical Director and Research Director. Dr. Hammond graduated from medical school at Tulane University School of Medicine and completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine. She completed a brain injury medicine fellowship at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Her research in the area of brain injury includes studying the prediction of outcome, aging with brain Injury, causes of and treatments for irritability, and quality of relationships.

    Research & Innovation
    • Covalt Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Indiana University
    • Research in the areas of brain injury iclude: prediction of outcome, aging with brain injury, causes of and treatments of irritability, and quality of relationships
    Education, Training & Certifications
    Education

    1986 Tulane University, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

    1990 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    1994 Wayne State University, Brain Injury Medicine Fellowship

    Residency

    1990-1994 Baylor College of Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency

    Certificates & Licenses

    Board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician (Physiatrist)

  • Monte M. Spence, MHA, FACHE

    Interim Chief Executive Officer
    Chief Operating Officer

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2011

    Interim Chief Executive Officer

    About

    Monte provides daily oversight to non-clinical system operations including: Business Development and Statewide Affiliations, Performance Improvement, Information Technology, Facility Services, Dietary, Environmental Services, and Outpatient clinic and general operations.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1996 Central Michigan University, Masters in Healthcare Administration

  • Marjorie Basey

    Chief Financial Officer

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2001

    Chief Financial Officer

    About

    Her responsibilities include finance, accounting, patient financial services, care coordination, outpatient registration/scheduling, materials management, health information management, and revenue cycle.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1989 Ball State University, Accounting

  • Joshua Halon, MSN, RN, EDAC

    Chief Clinical Officer

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2018

    Chief Clinical Officer

    About

    Joshua ensures that there is a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation care through leadership and planning for the nursing, quality and experience programs. He is passionate about the impact the patient and family experience has on healing and strives to deliver on RHI’s promise to ensure excellent care. He is an advocate for research and pushes for innovative approaches to support care across the continuum. Joshua is a husband and father of three who is actively involved in the community.

    Research & Innovation
    • Speaks nationally on topics such as the support for family presence at the bedside as well the role of healthcare workers and their impact in healing
    • Board Member for the Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design
    Education & Experience
    Education

    2012 Indiana State University, Nursing Administration, MSN

    2013 University of Notre Dame, Executive Certificate in Leadership and Management

  • Mary Escalante, Pharm D, CSSB

    Executive Director Pharmacy, Med & Safety & Ancillary Services

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2007

    Executive Director Pharmacy, Med & Safety & Ancillary Services

    “RHI is a special place where team members get to experience to be a part of the patient’s journey in recovery and healing.”
    About

    Mary leads the Ancillary Services Team comprising of the Inpatient Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, Respiratory, Radiology, Lab and Nutrition. She provides oversight to the Medication Safety Committee, serves as the hospital’s Planning Chief for the COVID Incident Command and as the Vaccine Coordinator. Mary earned her Six Sigma Black Belt certification that enforces her passion and expertise driving execution and implementation of Process Improvement, Technology Innovation, and Cost Saving Projects. She started her journey at RHI as a Clinical Pharmacist, then became the Medication Safety officer. Mary was promoted to the Director of Pharmacy & Med Safety, then as the Director of Pharmacy, Med Safety and Ancillary Services and currently serves as the Executive Director. She was voted by her peers at the Indiana Pharmacist Association to serve as the Board of Director for Indiana District 4/7 from 2021 to 2023.

    Research & Innovation
    • Patient Safety Enhancing Projects: Antibiotic Stewardship, Drug Diversion, OSHA and Joint Commission readiness.
    • Research Involvement: Data contributor on a study for Traumatic Brain Injury and Opioids
    • Technology Innovation implementation: BD Carefusion Pyxis ES, BD Carefusion Medmined/Healthsight and Script Center
    • Associate Faculty: Purdue University School of Pharmacy
    • IPA Board of Director: Congressional districts 4 & 7 which are in the west-central and central parts of the state. They include Indianapolis and Lafayette
    Education & Experience
    Education

    2002 Doctor of Pharmacy, Butler University

    2002 Indiana Pharmacist License

    2016 Certified Six Sigma Blackbelt, Purdue University

  • Gary Skinner

    Executive Director IT

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2012

    Executive Director IT

    About

    Gary Skinner joined RHI in 2012 from his previous position at Indiana University Health. Upon joining the RHI team, Gary has worked closely with the IT team and helped to ensure that RHI is constantly up to speed on the current IT trends in Healthcare. Gary brings with him over 24 years of experience in Healthcare IT, Revenue Cycle and Operations within Acute Care, Cancer and Rehabilitation inpatient hospitals.

    Education & Experience
  • Norma Unser

    Director of Philanthropy

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2024

    Director of Philanthropy

    About

    Norma joins us with a remarkable background as a business owner, lobbyist, activist, and nonprofit leader in Motorsports, Animal Care, and Veteran Initiatives. Norma’s extensive experience will undoubtedly elevate the RHI Foundation’s impact in supporting the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana’s (RHI) life-changing continuum of care and commitment to healthcare excellence. Norma will direct all of the foundation's fundraising initiatives, working closely with RHI leadership, the Board of Directors, and other key stakeholders to identify, solicit, and steward major gift donors.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2000 University of Southern Indiana, BA - Marketing & Advertising

    2014 Xavier University, Small Business Administration/Management

RHI Board of Directors

  • Ryan D. Nagy, MD

    RHI Board Member, Vice-Chair - IU Health

    • Joined
      Staff In

    RHI Board Member, Vice-Chair - IU Health

    About

    President of the Adult Academic Health Center (AHC), Ryan Nagy, MD, is responsible for determining the strategic vision and priorities for IU Health Methodist and University hospitals. He also provides overall direction for the medical staff and physician leadership, regulatory compliance, patient quality and safety, and risk management at the AHC adult hospitals.

    Research & Innovation
    • Leadership of the Finance Committee of the AHC of the Future Steering Committee
    Education & Experience
    Education

    1999 Indiana University, Economics

    2015 Indiana University, MBA

    2007 Indiana University School of Medicine

  • Harold Berfiend

    RHI Board Member - IU Health

    • Joined
      Staff In

    RHI Board Member - IU Health

    About

    Harold Berfiend has been around the IU Health system since long before it was IU Health. After a stint as a counselor in a behavioral health hospital, he moved into administration and eventually joined Methodist Medical Group in the 1990s. Since then, he’s held several leadership roles with the IU Health system, and was recently promoted to Vice President of Strategic Integration for the Adult Academic Health Center Hospitals in downtown Indianapolis. He and wife Lisa have four children–a 25-year-old daughter who is a senior at IUPUI, two 21-year-old sons–one a junior at Indiana University, the other working to establish a home remodeling business–and a 15-year-old girl who is a sophomore at Franklin Central High School. Lisa is vice president of Eastern United States client development–healthcare for K-Force. Two canines round out the family: “A miniature Schnauzer and a teacup Yorkie, who weighs four pounds soaking wet but thinks he is a Great Dane.”

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1992 Cameron University, MBA

  • Scott Weaver

    RHI Foundation Board Member

    • Joined
      Staff In

    RHI Foundation Board Member

    About

    Scott previously served as Chairman of the RHI Foundation Board of Directors. He is president of Grocers Supply in Indianapolis. Scott began his career in the state and local tax business in 1982. In 1991 he founded Innovative Consulting Service in Indianapolis which quickly grew to one of the largest regional firms. He has hands-on experience with workouts and turnarounds. In addition, Scott has overseen the start-up of many successful businesses and has successfully steered many companies through startup to exit. His past community involvement has included the Indiana Blood Bank, Board of Trustees, The American Heart Association, Gleaners Food Bank, Indianapolis ZOO, Red Cross, and the Indiana Mental Health Association.

    Research & Innovation
    • Community Involvement has included: Indiana Blood Bank, Board of Trustees, The American Heart Association, Gleaners Food Bank, Indianapolis Zoo, Red Cross, and the Indiana Mental Health Association
    Education & Experience
  • Dawnita Ropp

    RHI Board Member

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2021

    RHI Board Member

    About

    Dawn joins the RHI Board of Directors with more than 15 years of case management and UR leadership experience. She is currently the Vice President of Case Management, Social Services, and Utilization Review for Ascension Indiana. Dawn has lead the onsite transition of care teams throughout the state of Indiana over the last 3 years. She has a long history of leading Case Management teams at both Ascension St. Thomas in Tennessee and at Lutheran Health Network in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Dawn has lead process improvement initiatives related to length of stay, readmission reduction, denials mitigation, and improving hospital throughput. Dawn has been a registered nurse for over 26 years and earned her master's degree in business. She lives in Carmel with her husband, Jon.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1996 Lutheran College of Health Professions, Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

    2002 Indiana Wesleyan University, Bachelors of Business Administration (BSBA)

    2020 Western Governors University, Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Management (MBA-HM)

Clinical Liaisons

  • Darla Wyland

    Business Development Manager

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2012

    Business Development Manager

    About

    I work with patients across the full rehab spectrum. My passion and why I work for RHI is we are often a place of hope for people who had life changing events and need the specialized services that only RHI can offer. In providing these specialized services along with intense therapies, education, and our expertise, we are able to make a positive impact in the lives of those who are entrusting their care to us.

    Education & Experience
  • Jan Campbell

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2019

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    I met Heather Zosso, Clinical Liaison for RHI out in the field. I worked for a competitor. We would see each other every time we would be assessing the same patient at an OSH. Heather talked a lot about RHI in regards to the multiple services provided with specific rehabilitation programs, the community involvement and shared information regarding the specialized TBI program offered and that it was 1 of 16 in the country.  I simply was impressed! She shared with me all the research that was being gathered, the high intensity program for stroke, the OP Therapy Clinic and the Northwest Brain Injury Program, etc. I thought, '"this is a special hospital with passion, compassion and desire to better the lives of the folks that were there and those patients that were to come. They care about their community." Heather spoke specifically about how well RHI cares for their employees and that she has always felt supported in her role, respected for her knowledge and had plenty of resources available to her do her job well.  I liked that a lot! I wanted to be a part of this organization that  was impacting the lives of their clients, their families and their community! I feel very blessed to have this opportunity to be a part of RHI.

    Education & Experience
  • Stephanie Guynn

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      1999

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    "I choose to work at RHI because my father was a new heart transplant and my sister was a brain injured patient at RHI and RHI staff were beneficial in there recovery! I have been employed with RHI for 20 years."

    Education & Experience
  • Stephanie Rhoton, RN

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2019

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    "I chose to work at RHI because I have the opportunity to help patients receive the care they need to improve their lives and experience miracles daily."

    Education & Experience
  • Michelle Talbott

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2008

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    "Teamwork and Compassion for our patients is why I have worked at RHI for over 10yrs. We are invested in helping our patients regain their independence with integrity and we provide hope for the future. Providing innovative care for better outcomes. Thats why I choose to work at RHI!"

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1995 Ivy Tech Community College - LPN

    2014 Ivy Tech Community College - RN

  • Kaleb Mallory

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2024

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    I am a licensed PTA and I enjoy helping people and seeing them reach their goals. I chose RHI because I am actually originally from Muncie, IN so it allowed me to be closer to family but also it allowed me to continue to pursue my passion of being an advocate for people and helping them recover from their illnesses. I have 2 children and a beautiful wife. We just recently moved back to the Indy area within the last 3 months. I love to golf and play basketball; I played basketball for Ball State for 4 years while doing my undergrad.

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2016 Ball State University, Exercise Science/ Pre PT

    2021 Ivy Tech Community College, Physical Therapy Assistance

  • Renata Ellison

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      XXXX

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    I have been a physical therapist for 36 years. I have always had a passion for acute rehabilitation. I worked at RHI as a PT prior to taking the liaison position, and really enjoy getting the chance to talk to patients and families about rehab and the chance to recover and regain function lost from injury or illness. In my free time, I enjoy travel, spending time with my family and friends, and playing pickleball whenever I can!

    Education & Experience
    Education

    1988 Indiana University, Physical Therapy

    1994 University of Indianapolis, Master's Degree - Health Sciences

  • Karen Meyers

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2023

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    I have three beautiful daughters, the sweetest lap dog and one downright moody cat. I enjoy serving as a medical responder at my church, love helping the homeless and sharing my faith with those around me. I enjoy vacations to the beach, reading a variety of genres and binging a great Netflix series or two. I have worked in the medical field for almost 30 years. I welcomed the opportunity to work for RHI after years of being a vendor and watching the incredible success stories, one after another, of patients whose lives were forever changed through the talented staff at RHI. No one wants to need acute rehab, however, if I ever need it then RHI will be my one and only choice!

    Education & Experience
    Education

    2007 Ivy Tech Community College, ASN

  • Dean Ohde

    Clinical Liaison

    • Joined
      Staff In
      2023

    Clinical Liaison

    About

    Dean was born and raised in Ohio and is a two-time graduate from Ohio University. Dean is a Physical Therapist by background and has multiple years experience in acute inpatient rehab. He moved to Indiana in early 2024 with his fiancé and plans to get married in April of 2025. He enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.

    Education & Experience