Encore’s outpatient rehabilitation clinic will continue to operate in Hartselle after Hartselle Medical Center closes its doors on Jan. 31, according to Josh Lenox, PT clinical director.

“The building we’re in belongs to HMC and the working agreement we have with the hospital will end when it closes,” Lenox said. “Therefore, we anticipate relocating soon and are actively seeking a building, perhaps on Highway 31, that will suit our needs.”

“We will continue to operate with our existing staff of three licensed and experienced physical therapists and office coordinator, pursuing our goal of restoring the patient’s health and enabling he or she to resume their normal activities as quickly as possible.”

Encore athletic trainers assigned to Hartselle High also work out of the Hartselle Encore Rehab clinic.

The hospital’s closing is not expected to change the practices and locations of the city’s family physicians. Spokespersons for each of the doctor’s offices contracted by phone last week indicated they either will remain in their existing location or hope to do so.