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                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

|X|      ANNUAL  REPORT  PURSUANT  TO  SECTION  13 OR  15(D)  OF THE  SECURITIES
         EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998; OR

|_|      TRANSITION  REPORT  PURSUANT  TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE  SECURITIES
         EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM ______ TO ______

Commission File Number  1-10315
                      ----------

                             HEALTHSOUTH CORPORATION
              -----------------------------------------------------
             (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

                                                                       
            DELAWARE                                                            63-0860407
- - - ---------------------------------                                   ----------------------------------
  (State or Other Jurisdiction                                     (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
of Incorporation or Organization)

     ONE HEALTHSOUTH PARKWAY
       BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA                                                         35243
- - - ---------------------------------                                   ----------------------
 (Address of Principal Executive                                                (Zip Code)
           Offices)

Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code:                                (205) 967-7116
                                                                                   --------------

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

                                                                                Name of Each Exchange
            Title of Each Class                                                  on which Registered
- - - ---------------------------------                                     --------------------------------
          COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE                                              NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE
              $.01 PER SHARE

         9.5% SENIOR SUBORDINATED                                              NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE
              NOTES DUE 2001


Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:    NONE

         Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all Reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the  Securities  Exchange  Act of
1934  during  the  preceding  12 months  (or for such  shorter  period  that the
Registrant was required to file such Reports),  and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.

                 Yes  |X|              No   |_|

         Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent  filers  pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein and will not be contained, to
the  best  of  Registrant's   knowledge,  in  definitive  proxy  or  information
statements  incorporated  by  reference  in Part  III of this  Form  10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K.

|X|

         State  the  aggregate   market  value  of  the  voting  stock  held  by
non-affiliates of the Registrant as of March 29, 1999:

          Common Stock, par value $.01 per share -- $4,588,651,643

         Indicate the number of shares  outstanding of each of the  Registrant's
classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

           Class                                  Outstanding at March 25, 1999
- - - ---------------------------                       ------------------------------
  COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE
      $.01 PER SHARE                                     415,214,088 SHARES
                                               

                       DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

No documents are incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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                                     PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.

GENERAL

         HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation   ("HEALTHSOUTH"  or  the  "Company")  is  the
nation's largest provider of outpatient  surgery and  rehabilitative  healthcare
services.  The Company  provides these services  through its national network of
inpatient  and  outpatient  healthcare   facilities,   including  inpatient  and
outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  outpatient surgery centers,  diagnostic
centers,  occupational  health  centers,  medical  centers and other  healthcare
facilities.  The Company  believes  that it provides  patients,  physicians  and
payors with high-quality  healthcare  services at significantly lower costs than
traditional inpatient hospitals.  Additionally,  the Company's national network,
reputation for quality and focus on outcomes has enabled it to secure  contracts
with  national and  regional  managed  care  payors.  At December 31, 1998,  the
Company  had nearly  1,900  locations  in 50  states,  the  United  Kingdom  and
Australia,  exclusive of locations being closed,  consolidated or held for sale.
See Item 7,  "Management's  Discussion  and Analysis of Financial  Condition and
Results of Operations".

         The  Company's  healthcare  services  are  provided  through  inpatient
healthcare   facilities  and  facilities   providing  other  clinical   services
(including inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities and specialty medical centers ,
as well as  certain  physician  practices  and other  services)  and  outpatient
healthcare facilities (including outpatient  rehabilitation centers,  outpatient
surgery centers, outpatient diagnostic centers and occupational health centers).
In its outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation  facilities, the Company provides
interdisciplinary  programs  for the  rehabilitation  of  patients  experiencing
disability due to a wide variety of physical  conditions,  such as stroke,  head
injury, orthopaedic problems, neuromuscular disease and sports-related injuries.
The Company's rehabilitation services include physical therapy, sports medicine,
work hardening, neurorehabilitation,  occupational therapy, respiratory therapy,
speech-language  pathology and rehabilitation nursing.  Independent studies have
shown that  rehabilitation  services like those provided by the Company can save
money for payors and employers.

         A patient  referred to one of the Company's  rehabilitation  facilities
undergoes  an initial  evaluation  and  assessment  process  that results in the
development  of a  rehabilitation  care  plan  designed  specifically  for  that
patient.  Depending upon the patient's  disability,  this evaluation process may
involve the services of a single discipline, such as physical therapy for a knee
injury,  or of  multiple  disciplines,  as in the case of a  complicated  stroke
patient.  HEALTHSOUTH  has developed  numerous  rehabilitation  programs,  which
include stroke, head injury, spinal cord injury,  neuromuscular and work injury,
that  combine  certain  services to address the needs of patients  with  similar
disabilities.  In this way, all of the facilities'  patients,  regardless of the
severity  and  complexity  of their  disabilities,  can  receive  the  level and
intensity of those services  necessary to restore them to as productive,  active
and independent a lifestyle as possible.

         In addition to its rehabilitation  facilities, the Company operates the
largest network of freestanding outpatient surgery centers in the United States.
The Company's  outpatient  surgery  centers  provide the  facilities and medical
support  staff  necessary  for  physicians  to  perform  non-emergency  surgical
procedures.  While  outpatient  surgery is widely  recognized as generally  less
expensive  than  surgery  performed  in a hospital,  the Company  believes  that
outpatient  surgery  performed at a  freestanding  outpatient  surgery center is
generally less expensive than hospital-based outpatient surgery. Over 80% of the
Company's  surgery  center  facilities  are  located  in  markets  served by its
rehabilitative service facilities,  enabling the Company to pursue opportunities
for cross-referrals.

         The  Company  is  also  among  the  largest   operators  of  outpatient
diagnostic centers and occupational health centers in the United States. Most of
the Company's  diagnostic  centers and  occupational  health centers  operate in
markets where the Company also provides rehabilitative healthcare and outpatient
surgery services. The Company believes that its ability to offer a comprehensive
range of healthcare services in a particular geographic market makes the Company
more attractive to both patients and payors in such market.  The Company focuses
on marketing its services in an integrated system to patients and payors in such
geographic markets.

         Over the last four years, the Company has completed several significant
acquisitions  in both inpatient and outpatient  rehabilitation  services and has
expanded into the outpatient surgery center,  diagnostic and occupational health
businesses.   The  Company  believes  that  these  acquisitions  complement  its
historical  operations  and enhance  its market  position.  The Company  further
believes that its expansion into the outpatient surgery,



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diagnostic and  occupational  health  businesses  provides it with platforms for
future growth. The Company is continually evaluating potential acquisitions that
complement its existing operations.

         The Company was organized as a Delaware  corporation  in February 1984.
The  Company's  principal  executive  offices  are  located  at One  HealthSouth
Parkway, Birmingham, Alabama 35243, and its telephone number is (205) 967-7116.

COMPANY STRATEGY

         The  Company's  principal  objective  is to be the  provider  of choice
throughout  the United States for patients,  physicians and payors alike for the
outpatient  and  inpatient  and  other  clinical  healthcare  services  that  it
provides. The Company's growth strategy is based upon four primary elements: (i)
the  implementation  of the Company's  integrated  service model in  appropriate
markets,  (ii)  successful  marketing  to managed care  organizations  and other
payors, (iii) the provision of high-quality, cost-effective healthcare services,
and (iv) the expansion of its national network.

o        Integrated  Service Model.  The Company seeks,  where  appropriate,  to
         provide  an  integrated  system  of  healthcare   services,   including
         outpatient rehabilitation services,  inpatient rehabilitation and other
         clinical   services,   outpatient   surgery   services  and  outpatient
         diagnostic  services.  The Company believes that its integrated  system
         offers  payors the  convenience  of dealing with a single  provider for
         multiple  services.  Additionally,  it believes that its facilities can
         provide  extensive  cross-referral  opportunities.   For  example,  the
         Company  estimates  that  approximately  one-third  of  its  outpatient
         rehabilitation  patients  have had  outpatient  surgery,  virtually all
         inpatient  rehabilitation patients will require some form of outpatient
         rehabilitation,  and virtually all  inpatient  rehabilitation  patients
         have had some type of diagnostic procedure. The Company has implemented
         its Integrated Service Model in certain of its markets,  and intends as
         its long-term goal to expand the model into the 300 leading  markets in
         the United States.

o        Marketing to Managed Care  Organizations  and Other  Payors.  Since the
         late 1980s,  the Company has focused on the  development of contractual
         relationships   with  managed  care   organizations,   major  insurance
         companies,  large  regional and national  employer  groups and provider
         alliances  and  networks.   The  Company's   documented   outcomes  and
         experience with several hundred thousand patients in delivering quality
         healthcare   services   at   reasonable   prices   has   enhanced   its
         attractiveness to such entities and has given the Company a competitive
         advantage over smaller and regional  competitors.  These  relationships
         have increased patient flow to the Company's facilities and contributed
         to the Company's same-store growth. These relationships also expose the
         Company to  pressure  from payors to limit  pricing  for the  Company's
         services,  and  the  Company  endeavors  to  manage  and  monitor  such
         relationships  in an effort  to ensure  both  competitive  pricing  and
         patient volumes for its facilities.

o        Cost-Effective  Services. The Company's goal is to provide high-quality
         healthcare  services  in  cost-effective  settings.  To that  end,  the
         Company has developed standardized clinical protocols for the treatment
         of its  patients.  This results in "best  practices"  techniques  being
         utilized at all of the Company's  facilities,  allowing the  consistent
         achievement of  demonstrable,  cost-effective  clinical  outcomes.  The
         Company's  reputation for its clinical programs is enhanced through its
         relationships  with major  universities  throughout the nation, and its
         support of clinical  research in its facilities.  Further,  independent
         studies estimate that, for every dollar spent on rehabilitation, $11 to
         $35 is saved. Finally, surgical procedures typically are less expensive
         in outpatient  surgery centers than in hospital  settings.  The Company
         believes that outpatient and  rehabilitative  healthcare  services will
         assume  increasing  importance in the healthcare  environment as payors
         continue to seek to reduce  overall costs by shifting  patients to more
         cost-effective treatment settings.

o        Expansion  of  National  Network.  As one of the largest  providers  of
         healthcare  services  in the  United  States,  the  Company  is able to
         realize  economies  of scale  and  compete  successfully  for  national
         contracts  with  large  payors  and  employers   while   retaining  the
         flexibility  to  respond  to  particular  needs of local  markets.  The
         national  network  affords the Company the  opportunity  to offer large
         national and regional  employers and payors the  convenience of dealing
         with a  single  provider,  to  utilize  greater  buying  power  through
         centralized purchasing,  to achieve more efficient costs of capital and
         labor and to more  effectively  recruit  and retain  clinicians.  These
         national  benefits  are  realized  without   sacrificing  local  market
         responsiveness.  The Company's objective is to provide those outpatient
         and rehabilitative  healthcare services needed within each local market
         by tailoring its services and facilities to that market's  needs,  thus
         bringing the benefits of  nationally  recognized  expertise and quality
         into the local setting.





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RISK FACTORS

         HEALTHSOUTH's business,  operations and financial condition are subject
to certain risks.  Some of these risks are described  below, and readers of this
Annual  Report on Form 10-K  should take such risks into  account in  evaluating
HEALTHSOUTH or any investment decision involving HEALTHSOUTH.  This section does
not describe all risks  applicable to HEALTHSOUTH,  and it is intended only as a
summary of certain material factors.  More detailed  information  concerning the
factors  described below is contained in other sections of this Annual Report on
Form 10-K.

         HEALTHSOUTH   Depends  Upon   Reimbursement   by  Third-Party   Payors.
Substantially  all of  HEALTHSOUTH's  revenues  are  derived  from  private  and
governmental  third-party payors (in 1998, approximately 35.9% from Medicare and
approximately  64.1% from  commercial  insurers,  managed  care plans,  workers'
compensation payors and other private pay revenue sources). There are increasing
pressures from many payor sources to control  healthcare  costs and to reduce or
limit increases in  reimbursement  rates for medical  services.  There can be no
assurances that payments from government or private payors will remain at levels
comparable to present  levels.  In attempts to limit the federal budget deficit,
there have been,  and  HEALTHSOUTH  expects  that there will  continue  to be, a
number of  proposals  to limit  Medicare  reimbursement  for  certain  services.
HEALTHSOUTH  cannot now predict  whether any of these pending  proposals will be
adopted or what effect the adoption of such proposals would have on HEALTHSOUTH.

         HEALTHSOUTH's   Operations   Are  Subject  to   Extensive   Regulation.
HEALTHSOUTH is subject to various other types of regulation by federal and state
governments,  including  licensure and certification  laws,  Certificate of Need
laws and laws relating to financial  relationships among providers of healthcare
services, Medicare fraud and abuse and physician self-referral.

         The  operation  of  HEALTHSOUTH's   facilities  and  the  provision  of
healthcare  services  are  subject to  federal,  state and local  licensure  and
certification  laws.  These  facilities  and  services  are  subject to periodic
inspection by governmental and other  authorities to assure  compliance with the
various  standards   established  for  continued   licensure  under  state  law,
certification  under the Medicare and Medicaid programs and participation in the
Veteran's Administration program.  Additionally, in many states, Certificates of
Need or other  similar  approvals  are required for  expansion of  HEALTHSOUTH's
operations.  HEALTHSOUTH  could be adversely  affected if it cannot  obtain such
approvals,  by changes in the standards  applicable to approvals and by possible
delays and expenses associated with obtaining approvals.  HEALTHSOUTH's  failure
to  obtain,  retain or renew any  required  regulatory  approvals,  licenses  or
certificates could prevent HEALTHSOUTH from being reimbursed for its services or
from  offering some of its services,  or could  adversely  affect its results of
operations.

         A wide array of  Medicare/Medicaid  fraud and abuse provisions apply to
the operations of HEALTHSOUTH.  HEALTHSOUTH is subject to extensive  federal and
state  regulation  with  respect to  financial  relationships  among  healthcare
providers,  physician  self-referral  arrangements  and  other  fraud  and abuse
issues. Penalties for violation of federal and state laws and regulation include
exclusion  from   participation  in  the   Medicare/Medicaid   programs,   asset
forfeiture,  civil  penalties  and criminal  penalties.  The Office of Inspector
General  of the  Department  of Health and Human  Services,  the  Department  of
Justice  and  other  federal  agencies  interpret  healthcare  fraud  and  abuse
provisions liberally and enforce them aggressively.

         Healthcare Reform  Legislation May Affect  HEALTHSOUTH's  Business.  In
recent years,  many  legislative  proposals have been  introduced or proposed in
Congress and in some state  legislatures  that would effect major changes in the
healthcare system,  either nationally or at the state level. Among the proposals
which are currently  being,  or which  recently have been,  considered  are cost
controls on hospitals,  insurance market reforms to increase the availability of
group health  insurance to small  businesses,  requirements  that all businesses
offer health insurance  coverage to their employees and the creation of a single
government  health  insurance  plan that would cover all citizens.  The costs of
certain  proposals would be funded in significant  part by reductions in payment
by  governmental  programs,  including  Medicare  and  Medicaid,  to  healthcare
providers.  There  continue to be federal and state  proposals  that would,  and
actions that do, impose more  limitations on government and private  payments to
healthcare  providers such as HEALTHSOUTH  and proposals to increase  copayments
and deductibles from programs and private  patients.  At the federal level, both
Congress and the current  Administration  have  continued to propose  healthcare
budgets  that  substantially  reduce  payments  under the  Medicare and Medicaid
programs. In addition,  many states are considering the enactment of initiatives
designed to reduce their Medicaid expenditures, to provide universal coverage or
additional  levels  of care  and/or  to impose  additional  taxes on  healthcare
providers to help finance or expend the states' Medicaid  systems.  There can be
no  assurance  as to the ultimate  content,  timing or effect of any  healthcare
reform  legislation,  nor is it possible at this time to estimate  the impact of
potential legislation, which may be material, on HEALTHSOUTH.



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         HEALTHSOUTH  Must   Successfully   Meet  Year  2000  Compliance  Risks.
HEALTHSOUTH  is aware of the  issues  associated  with the  programming  code in
existing  computer systems as the year 2000 approaches.  Many existing  computer
programs use only two digits to identify a year in the date field.  The issue is
whether such code exists in HEALTHSOUTH's  mission-critical  applications and if
that code will produce accurate information to date-sensitive calculations after
the turn of the century. As described under Item 7, "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial  Condition  and Results of  Operations",  HEALTHSOUTH  has
undertaken   assessment  activities  to  attempt  to  determine  its  year  2000
compliance status.

         In that  connection,  it  should  be noted  that  substantially  all of
HEALTHSOUTH's  revenues  are derived  from  reimbursement  by  governmental  and
private  third-party payors, and that HEALTHSOUTH is dependent upon such payors'
evaluation of their year 2000  compliance  status to assess such risks.  If such
payors  are  incorrect  in their  evaluation  of their own year 2000  compliance
status,  this could result in delays or errors in  reimbursement to HEALTHSOUTH,
the effects of which could be material to HEALTHSOUTH.

         Based on the information currently available, HEALTHSOUTH believes that
its  risk  associated  with  problems  arising  from  year  2000  issues  is not
significant.  However,  because of the many  uncertainties  associated with year
2000  compliance  issues,  and because  HEALTHSOUTH's  assessment is necessarily
based on information from third-party vendors,  payors and suppliers,  there can
be no assurance  that  HEALTHSOUTH's  assessment  is correct.  HEALTHSOUTH  will
continue with the assessment  process described  elsewhere in this Annual Report
on Form 10-K and, to the extent that changes in such assessment require it, will
attempt to develop  alternatives or  modifications to its compliance plan. There
can,  however,  be no assurance that such compliance plan, as it may be changed,
augmented or modified from time to time, will be successful.

         HEALTHSOUTH Faces National, Regional and Local Competition. HEALTHSOUTH
operates in a highly competitive  industry.  HEALTHSOUTH  generally operates its
facilities in communities that also are served by similar facilities operated by
its  competitors.  Although  HEALTHSOUTH is the largest provider of its range of
inpatient  and  outpatient  healthcare  services on a nationwide  basis,  in any
particular  market it may encounter  competition from local or national entities
with longer operating histories or other superior competitive advantages.  There
can  be  no  assurance  that  such  competition,   or  other  competition  which
HEALTHSOUTH may encounter in the future, will not adversely affect HEALTHSOUTH's
results of operations.

         HEALTHSOUTH Is Subject to Material Litigation.  HEALTHSOUTH is, and may
in the future be,  subject to  litigation  which,  if  determined  adversely  to
HEALTHSOUTH,  could have a material adverse affect on HEALTHSOUTH.  In addition,
some of the companies and businesses  acquired by HEALTHSOUTH  have been subject
to such litigation. While HEALTHSOUTH attempts to conduct its operations in such
a way as to reduce  the risk that  adverse  results in  litigation  could have a
material  adverse affect on HEALTHSOUTH,  there can be no assurance that pending
or future  litigation,  whether or not  described in this Annual  Report on Form
10-K,  will  not  have  such a  material  adverse  affect.  See  Item 3,  "Legal
Proceedings".

         HEALTHSOUTH's  Stock  Price  May  Be  Volatile.  Healthcare  stocks  in
general,  including  HEALTHSOUTH's common stock, are subject to frequent changes
in stock price and trading volume, some of which may be large. These changes may
be influenced by the market's  perceptions of the healthcare  sector in general,
of other companies  believed to be similar to HEALTHSOUTH,  or of  HEALTHSOUTH's
results of operations and future prospects.  In addition,  these perceptions may
be greatly affected not only by information  provided by HEALTHSOUTH but also by
opinions and reports  created by  investment  analysts  and other third  parties
which do not necessarily  reflect information  provided by HEALTHSOUTH.  Adverse
movement in the Company's stock price,  particularly as a result of factors over
which it has no control,  may adversely  affect the Company's  access to capital
and the ability to consummate acquisitions using its stock.

GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITIONS AND RELATED DIVESTITURES

         Beginning in 1994, the Company has  consummated a series of significant
acquisitions.  The following  paragraphs  describe certain of such  acquisitions
consummated during the period covered by the consolidated  financial  statements
contained in this Annual  Report on Form 10-K,  as well as related  divestitures
and facility  closings  and  consolidations  in  connection  with the  Company's
strategic plan.

         During  1996,  the Company  acquired  Surgical  Care  Affiliates,  Inc.
("SCA";  67  outpatient   surgery  centers  in  24  states),   Advantage  Health
Corporation  ("Advantage  Health";  approximately  136 inpatient and  outpatient
rehabilitation facilities in 11 states), Professional Sports Care



                                       5






Management,  Inc. ("PSCM"; 36 outpatient  rehabilitation facilities in New York,
New Jersey and Connecticut) and ReadiCare,  Inc.  ("ReadiCare";  37 occupational
health   centers  in  California   and   Washington)   in   pooling-of-interests
transactions.  During 1997, the Company  acquired Health Images,  Inc.  ("Health
Images"; 55 diagnostic imaging centers in 13 states and the United Kingdom), ASC
Network  Corporation  ("ASC";  29 surgery centers in eight states),  Horizon/CMS
Healthcare Corporation  ("Horizon/CMS";  30 inpatient rehabilitation  facilities
and  approximately  275  outpatient  rehabilitation  centers in 24  states)  and
National Imaging  Affiliates,  Inc. ("NIA";  eight diagnostic imaging centers in
six states). On December 31, 1997, the Company sold the long-term care assets of
Horizon/CMS,   consisting  of  139  long-term  care  facilities,   12  specialty
hospitals,  35 institutional  pharmacy  locations and over 1,000  rehabilitation
therapy contracts with long-term care facilities, to Integrated Health Services,
Inc. ("IHS").  During 1998, the Company acquired National Surgery Centers,  Inc.
("NSC";  40  surgery  centers  in 14  states),  as  well as 34  surgery  centers
(including centers under management  arrangements) from Columbia/HCA  Healthcare
Corporation ("Columbia/HCA"). These transactions, along with the Company's other
significant  acquisitions  since  1993,  have  further  enhanced  the  Company's
position  as  the  nation's   largest   provider  of  inpatient  and  outpatient
rehabilitative  services and outpatient surgery services and its position as one
of the largest providers of occupational health and diagnostic imaging services.
The  Company  believes  that  the  geographic  dispersion  of the  nearly  1,900
locations now operated by the Company  makes it more  attractive to managed care
networks,  major  insurance  companies,  regional  and  national  employers  and
regional provider  alliances and enhances the Company's ability to implement its
Integrated Service Model in additional markets.

         In the course of its major  acquisitions,  the Company has from time to
time acquired ancillary businesses,  such as healthcare staffing and home health
services,  which are not part of the Company's strategic lines of business,  and
has  also  acquired   facilities  which  are  duplicative  of  certain  existing
facilities  or  which  do not  meet  the  Company's  operating  and  performance
standards.  Accordingly,  the Company has from time to time  determined to sell,
close or  consolidate  certain  acquired  facilities  and businesses in order to
focus its resources on those facilities and businesses which are most consistent
with its strategic plan and core operations. The most significant divestiture by
the Company was its  divestiture  of the long-term care assets of Horizon/CMS to
IHS in 1997,  described  above.  In addition,  in the third quarter of 1998, the
Company adopted a plan to close substantially all of its home health operations,
which had been obtained as minor  components of larger  strategic  acquisitions,
and in the  fourth  quarter  of  1998  the  Company  adopted  a plan  to  close,
consolidate  or  hold  for  sale  certain  other  non-strategic  businesses  and
duplicative  facilities,  as well as facilities which the Company had determined
could not be brought up to the  Company's  operating and  performance  standards
without undue expenditure of resources.  Unless the context otherwise indicates,
descriptions  of the Company's  patient care  services  locations in this Annual
Report on Form 10-K do not include those  facilities  which,  as of December 31,
1998, had been or were being closed, consolidated or sold.

         See  Item  7,  "Management's   Discussion  and  Analysis  of  Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" for additional  information  concerning the
Company's acquisitions, divestitures and plans with respect to facility closings
and consolidations.

INDUSTRY BACKGROUND

         In  1996,  there  were  an  estimated   3,500,000   inpatient  hospital
discharges in the United States involving impairments  requiring  rehabilitative
healthcare services. "Rehabilitative healthcare services" refers to the range of
skilled  services  provided to  individuals  in order to minimize  physical  and
cognitive  impairments,  maximize functional ability and restore lost functional
capacity.  The focus of rehabilitative  healthcare is to ameliorate physical and
cognitive  impairments  resulting  from  illness  or  injury,  and to restore or
improve  functional  ability  so that  individuals  can  return to work and lead
independent and fulfilling lives. Typically,  rehabilitative healthcare services
are provided by a variety of healthcare  professionals  including  physiatrists,
rehabilitation   nurses,   physical   therapists,    occupational    therapists,
speech-language  pathologists,  respiratory  therapists,  recreation therapists,
social workers, psychologists, rehabilitation counselors and others. Over 80% of
those receiving rehabilitative  healthcare services return to their homes, work,
schools or active retirement.

         Demand for rehabilitative healthcare services continues to be driven by
advances in medical technologies, an aging population and the recognition on the
part of the payor  community  (insurers,  self-insured  companies,  managed care
organizations  and  federal,  state and local  governments)  that  appropriately
administered  rehabilitative  services  can  improve  quality of life as well as
lower  overall  healthcare  costs.  Studies  conducted  by  insurance  companies
demonstrate the ability of  rehabilitation  to significantly  reduce the cost of
future care.  Estimates of the savings range from $11 to $35 per dollar spent on
rehabilitation.   Further,  reimbursement  changes  have  encouraged  the  rapid
discharge of patients  from  acute-care  hospitals  while they remain in need of
rehabilitative healthcare services.



                                       6






         The Company  also  believes  that there is a growing  trend  toward the
provision  of other  healthcare  services  on an  outpatient  basis,  fueled  by
advances in technology, demands for cost-effective care and concerns for patient
comfort  and  convenience.  An  industry  study  indicates  that there was a 75%
increase in the number of  treatments  in all  ambulatory  settings from 1986 to
1996,  with  over 70% of the total  number of  surgeries  in the  United  States
currently  being  performed on an outpatient  basis.  The Company  believes that
these  trends will  continue  to foster  demand for the  delivery of  healthcare
services on an outpatient basis.

PATIENT CARE SERVICES

         The  Company  began its  operations  in 1984 with a focus on  providing
comprehensive  orthopaedic  and  musculoskeletal  rehabilitation  services on an
outpatient  basis.  Over the succeeding 14 years,  the Company has  consistently
sought and implemented opportunities to expand its services through acquisitions
and de novo  development  activities  that  complement  its  historic  focus  on
orthopaedic,  sports medicine and occupational  health services and that provide
independent platforms for growth. The Company's acquisitions and internal growth
have enabled it to become one of the largest providers of healthcare services in
the United States.  The following sections discuss the range of services offered
by the Company in its  inpatient  and other  clinical  services  and  outpatient
services business segments.

Inpatient and Other Clinical Services

         The Company's  inpatient and other clinical  services  business segment
includes the operations of its inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities and medical
centers,  as well as the  operations  of certain  physician  practices and other
clinical  services which are managerially  aligned with the Company's  inpatient
services.

         INPATIENT REHABILITATION  FACILITIES. At December 31, 1998, the Company
operated 124 inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities with 7,690 beds in the United
States,  representing  the largest  group of  affiliated  proprietary  inpatient
rehabilitation  facilities  in the  nation,  as well as a 71-bed  rehabilitation
hospital in Australia. The Company's inpatient rehabilitation facilities provide
high-quality   comprehensive   services  to  patients   who  require   intensive
institutional rehabilitation care.

         Inpatient   rehabilitation   patients  are  typically   those  who  are
experiencing  significant physical disabilities due to various conditions,  such
as head injury,  spinal cord injury,  stroke,  certain orthopaedic  problems and
neuromuscular disease. The Company's inpatient rehabilitation facilities provide
the medical,  nursing,  therapy and ancillary  services  required to comply with
local, state and federal  regulations as well as accreditation  standards of the
Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare  Organizations (the "JCAHO") and
the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities ("CARF").

         All of the Company's  inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities  utilize an
interdisciplinary  team approach to the  rehabilitation  process and involve the
patient and family,  as well as the payor, in the determination of the goals for
the patient.  Internal case managers monitor each patient's progress and provide
documentation of patient status,  achievement of goals,  functional outcomes and
efficiency.

         In certain markets the Company's  rehabilitation  hospitals may provide
outpatient  rehabilitation services as a complement to their inpatient services.
Typically, this opportunity arises when patients complete their inpatient course
of treatment but remain in need of additional  therapy that can be  accomplished
on an outpatient  basis.  Depending upon the demand for outpatient  services and
physical  space  constraints,  the  rehabilitation  hospital may  establish  the
services either within its building or in a satellite location.  In either case,
the  clinical  protocols  and  programs  developed  for use in the  freestanding
outpatient centers are utilized by these facilities.

         A number of the Company's  rehabilitation  hospitals  were developed in
conjunction  with  local  tertiary-care  facilities,  including  major  teaching
hospitals such as those at Vanderbilt University, the University of Missouri and
the University of Virginia.  This strategy of developing  effective referral and
service networks prior to opening results in improved operating efficiencies for
the new  facilities  and provides a more  coordinated  continuum of care for the
constituencies  served by the  tertiary-care  facilities.  In  addition to those
facilities  so  developed  by the  Company,  the Company has entered  into or is
pursuing  similar  affiliations  with a number of its  rehabilitation  hospitals
which were obtained through the Company's major acquisitions.



                                       7






         MEDICAL  CENTERS.  At December  31,  1998,  the Company  operated  four
medical  centers  with  810  licensed  beds  in  four  distinct  markets.  These
facilities  provide  general  and  specialty  medical  and  surgical  healthcare
services, emphasizing orthopaedics, sports medicine and rehabilitation.

         The  Company   acquired  its  medical  centers  as  outgrowths  of  its
rehabilitative healthcare services. Often, patients require medical and surgical
interventions prior to the initiation of their  rehabilitative  care. In each of
the markets in which the Company has acquired a medical center,  the Company had
well-established   relationships  with  the  medical  communities  serving  each
facility.  In  addition,   each  of  the  facilities  enjoyed   well-established
reputations in orthopaedics and/or sports medicine prior to their acquisition by
the Company.  Following  the  acquisition  of each of its medical  centers,  the
Company has provided the resources to improve upon the physical plant and expand
services  through  the  introduction  of new  technology.  The  Company has also
developed  additional   relationships   between  these  facilities  and  certain
university facilities,  including the University of Miami, Auburn University and
the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Through these relationships, the influx
of celebrity  athletes and  personalities and the acquisition of new technology,
all of the Company's medical centers have improved their operating  efficiencies
and enhanced census.

         Each of the  Company's  medical  center  facilities  is  licensed as an
acute-care hospital, is accredited by the JCAHO and participates in the Medicare
prospective payment system. See this Item, "Business -- Regulation".

         In measuring patient utilization of the Company's inpatient facilities,
various factors must be considered. Due to market demand, demographics, start-up
status, renovation, patient mix and other factors, the Company may not treat all
licensed  beds in a  particular  facility as  available  beds,  which  sometimes
results in a material variance between licensed beds and beds actually available
for  utilization  at any specific time. The Company is in a position to increase
the number of available beds at such  facilities as market  conditions  dictate.
During the year ended  December 31, 1998,  the  Company's  inpatient  facilities
achieved an overall  utilization,  based on patient days and available  beds, of
76.25%.

Outpatient Services

         The  Company's   outpatient  services  business  segment  includes  the
Company's outpatient rehabilitation  facilities, its outpatient surgery centers,
its outpatient diagnostic centers and its occupational health centers.

         OUTPATIENT  REHABILITATION  SERVICES.  The Company operates the largest
group of  affiliated  proprietary  outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities in the
United  States.  The  Company's  outpatient   rehabilitation   centers  offer  a
comprehensive range of rehabilitative  healthcare  services,  including physical
therapy and occupational  therapy, that are tailored to the individual patient's
needs,  focusing  predominantly on orthopaedic injuries,  sports injuries,  work
injuries,  hand  and  upper  extremity  injuries,  back  injuries,  and  various
neurological/neuromuscular  conditions.  As of December  31,  1998,  the Company
provided outpatient  rehabilitative  healthcare  services through  approximately
1,187 outpatient locations,  including freestanding outpatient centers and their
satellites,   outpatient  satellites  of  inpatient  facilities  and  outpatient
facilities managed under contract.

         Continuing  emphasis on containing  increases in healthcare  costs,  as
evidenced by Medicare's  prospective  payment system, the growth in managed care
and the various alternative healthcare reform proposals, has resulted in earlier
discharge of patients from  acute-care  facilities.  As a result,  many hospital
patients do not receive the intensity of services that may be necessary for them
to  achieve  a  full  recovery  from  their  diseases,  disorders  or  traumatic
conditions.  The Company's outpatient rehabilitation services play a significant
role in the continuum of care because they provide  hospital-level  services, in
terms of intensity, quality and frequency, in a more cost-efficient setting.

         Patients  treated at the  Company's  outpatient  centers  will  undergo
varying courses of therapy  depending upon their individual needs. Some patients
may only  require a few hours of therapy per week for a few weeks,  while others
may spend up to five hours per day in therapy for six months or more,  depending
on the nature, severity and complexity of their injuries.

         In general, the Company initially establishes an outpatient center in a
given  market,  either by  acquiring  an existing  private  therapy  practice or
through de novo development,  and institutes its clinical protocols and programs
in response to the community's general need for services.  The Company will then
establish  satellite  clinics  that are  dependent  upon the main  facility  for
management and administrative services.



                                       8






These satellite  clinics  generally  provide a specific  evaluative or specialty
service/program,  such as hand therapy or foot and ankle therapy, in response to
specific market demands.

         Patient   utilization  of  the  Company's   outpatient   rehabilitation
facilities cannot be measured in the conventional  manner applied to acute- care
hospitals,  nursing  homes and other  healthcare  providers  which  have a fixed
number of  licensed  beds and serve  patients  on a 24-hour  basis.  Utilization
patterns in outpatient  rehabilitation facilities will be affected by the market
to be served,  the types of injuries treated,  the patient mix and the number of
available therapists,  among other factors.  Moreover,  because of variations in
size,  location,  hours of  operation,  referring  physician  base and  services
provided  and  other  differences   among  each  of  the  Company's   outpatient
facilities,  it is not possible to accurately assess patient utilization against
a norm.

         SURGERY  CENTERS.  The Company is  currently  the  largest  operator of
outpatient  surgery  centers in the United  States.  At December  31,  1998,  it
operated 221 freestanding  surgery centers,  including eight mobile  lithotripsy
units, in 41 states.  Over 80% of these facilities are located in markets served
by the  Company's  rehabilitation  facilities,  enabling  the  Company to pursue
opportunities for cross-referrals between surgery and rehabilitation  facilities
as well as to centralize administrative functions. The Company's surgery centers
provide the  facilities  and medical  support staff  necessary for physicians to
perform  non-emergency  surgical  procedures.  Its typical  surgery  center is a
freestanding  facility with three to six fully equipped  operating and procedure
rooms  and   ancillary   areas  for   reception,   preparation,   recovery   and
administration.  Each of the Company's surgery centers is available for use only
by licensed  physicians,  oral surgeons and podiatrists,  and the centers do not
perform surgery on an emergency basis.

         Outpatient  surgery centers,  unlike  hospitals,  have not historically
provided overnight  accommodations,  food services or other ancillary  services.
Over the past  several  years,  states have  increasingly  permitted  the use of
extended-stay  recovery  facilities by outpatient surgery centers.  As a result,
many outpatient  surgery centers are adding extended  recovery care capabilities
where permitted.  Most of the Company's  surgery centers  currently  provide for
extended  recovery  stays.  The Company's  ability to develop such recovery care
facilities is dependent  upon state  regulatory  environments  in the particular
states where its centers are located.

         The Company's  outpatient  surgery  centers  implement  quality control
procedures  to evaluate the level of care  provided at the centers.  Each center
has a medical  advisory  committee of three to ten physicians  which reviews the
professional  credentials of physicians applying for medical staff privileges at
the center.

         DIAGNOSTIC  CENTERS.  At December  31, 1998,  the Company  operated 118
diagnostic  centers in 25 states and the United  Kingdom.  These centers provide
outpatient  diagnostic  imaging services,  including  magnetic resonance imaging
("MRI"),  computerized  tomography ("CT") services,  X-ray services,  ultrasound
services,  mammography services, nuclear medicine services and fluoroscopy.  Not
all  services  are  provided  at all  sites;  however,  most  of  the  Company's
diagnostic centers are multi-modality centers.

         The  Company's   diagnostic  centers  provide   outpatient   diagnostic
procedures  performed  by  experienced  radiological   technicians.   After  the
diagnostic  procedure is completed,  the images are reviewed by radiologists who
have contracted with the Company. Such radiologists prepare a report of the test
and their  findings,  which are then delivered to the referring  physician.  The
Company's  diagnostic  centers are open at such hours as are appropriate for the
local medical community.

         Because many patients at the Company's  rehabilitative  healthcare  and
outpatient  surgery  facilities  require  diagnostic   procedures  of  the  type
performed at the Company's  diagnostic  centers,  the Company  believes that its
diagnostic operations are a natural complement to its other services and enhance
its ability to market those services to patients and payors.

         OCCUPATIONAL  HEALTH  SERVICES.  At  December  31,  1998,  the  Company
operated 119  occupational  health centers in 28 states.  These centers  provide
cost-effective,  outpatient primary medical care and rehabilitation  services to
individuals for the treatment of work-related medical problems.

         The Company's  occupational  health  centers  market their  services to
large and small employers, workers' compensation and health insurers and managed
care organizations.  The services provided at the Company's  occupational health
centers include  outpatient  primary medical care for work-related  injuries and
illnesses,  work-related  physical  examinations,  physical therapy services and
workers'  compensation  medical  services,  as well as other services  primarily
aimed at work-related injuries or illnesses. Medical services at the centers are
provided by licensed



                                       9






physicians  who are employed by or under contract with the Company or affiliated
medical  practices.  These  centers  also employ  nurses,  therapists  and other
licensed professional staff as necessary for the services provided.  The Company
believes  that  occupational  health  primary  care  services  are  a  strategic
component of its business,  and that the physicians in its  occupational  health
centers can, in many cases, serve as "gatekeepers" providing access to the other
services offered by the Company.

Other Patient Care Services

         In certain of its  markets,  the Company  provides  other  patient care
services, including physician services and contract management of hospital-based
rehabilitative  healthcare services.  The Company evaluates market opportunities
on a case-by-case basis in determining whether to provide additional services of
these types,  which may be complementary to facility-based  services provided by
the Company or stand-alone  businesses.  These services are included  within the
business  segment of the Company with which they are most closely aligned in the
particular local market.

MARKETING OF FACILITIES AND SERVICES

         The Company markets its facilities, and their services and programs, on
local, regional and national levels. Local and regional marketing activities are
typically  coordinated  by  local or  area-based  marketing  personnel,  whereas
large-scale  regional and national  efforts are  coordinated by  corporate-based
personnel.  In Integrated Service Model markets,  area marketing  activities are
coordinated  by an ISM Advisory  Committee  reflecting  the  Company's  range of
services in each market.

         In general,  the Company  develops a marketing  plan for each  facility
based on a variety of factors, including population  characteristics,  physician
characteristics  and  incidence of disability  statistics,  in order to identify
specific service opportunities. Facility-oriented marketing programs are focused
on  increasing  the volume of patient  referrals  to the  specific  facility and
involve the development of ongoing  relationships with area schools,  businesses
and  industries as well as  physicians,  health  maintenance  organizations  and
preferred provider organizations.

         The  Company's  larger-scale  marketing  activities  are  focused  more
broadly on efforts to generate patient referrals to multiple  facilities and the
creation of new business opportunities.  Such activities include the development
and maintenance of contractual relationships or national pricing agreements with
large  third-party  payors,  such as CIGNA,  United Healthcare or other national
insurance  companies,  with national  HMO/PPO  companies,  such as First Health,
Hospital  Network  of America  and  Multiplan,  with  national  case  management
companies,  such as INTRACORP and Crawford & Co., and with  national  employers,
such as Wal-Mart,  Georgia-Pacific  Corporation,  Federated  Department  Stores,
Goodyear Tire & Rubber and Winn-Dixie. In addition, since many of the facilities
acquired by the Company during the past four years had very limited  contractual
relationships  with payors,  managed care providers,  employers and others,  the
Company  is  expanding  its  existing  payor   relationships  to  include  these
facilities.

         The Company  carries out broader  programs  designed to further enhance
its name recognition and association  with amateur and  professional  athletics.
Among these is the HEALTHSOUTH Sports Medicine Council, headed by Bo Jackson and
involving other well-known professional and amateur athletes and sports medicine
specialists,  which is dedicated to developing  educational  programs focused on
athletics for use in high schools.  The Company has ongoing  relationships  with
the  Professional   Golfers   Association,   the  Senior  Professional   Golfers
Association,   the  Ladies  Professional  Golf  Association,   the  Southeastern
Conference,  the U.S. Decathlon Team, USA Hockey, USA Wrestling,  USA Volleyball
and more than 125  universities  and  colleges and 2,000 high schools to provide
sports medicine coverage of events and  rehabilitative  healthcare  services for
injured athletes. In addition, the Company has established relationships with or
provided  treatment  services for athletes from some 40-50  professional  sports
teams,  as well as providing  sports  medicine  services for Olympic and amateur
athletes.  In  1996,  the  Company  and  the  United  States  Olympic  Committee
established the Richard M. Scrushy/HEALTHSOUTH Sports Medicine and Sport Science
Center at the USOC's Colorado Springs campus.

         The  Company  is a  national  sponsor  of  the  United  Cerebral  Palsy
Association  and the  National  Arthritis  Foundation  and  supports  many other
charitable  organizations on national and local levels. Through these endeavors,
the Company and its employees are able to support  charitable  organizations and
activities within their communities.



                                       10






SOURCES OF REVENUES

         Private pay revenue  sources  represent  the majority of the  Company's
revenues.  The  following  table sets  forth the  percentages  of the  Company's
revenues from various sources for the periods indicated:


                                                                   YEAR ENDED                   YEAR ENDED
          SOURCE                                                DECEMBER 31, 1997            DECEMBER 31, 1998
- - - ---------------------------                                     -----------------            -----------------
                                                                                              
Medicare        ....................................................36.9%                         35.9%
Commercial (1)......................................................35.1                          37.0
Workers' Compensation...............................................11.1                          10.8
All Other Payors (2)................................................16.9                          16.3
                                                                    ----                          ----
                                                                   100.0%                        100.0%
                                                                   =====                         ===== 

- - - -----------

(1) Includes commercial insurance, HMOs, PPOs and other managed care plans.

(2) Medicaid is included in this category, but is insignificant in amount.

         The above  table does not  reflect  the NSC  facilities  for periods or
portions thereof prior to the effective date of the NSC acquisition.  Comparable
information for those facilities is not available.

         See this Item  "Business --  Regulation -- Medicare  Participation  and
Reimbursement"  for a description  of certain of the  reimbursement  regulations
applicable to the Company's facilities.

COMPETITION

         The  Company's  rehabilitation  facilities  compete on a  regional  and
national  basis with other  providers  of  specialized  services  such as sports
medicine and work  hardening,  and specific  concentrations  such as head injury
rehabilitation and orthopaedic  surgery.  The competition faced in each of these
markets is  similar,  with  variations  arising  from the  number of  healthcare
providers in the given metropolitan area. The primary competitive factors in the
Company's  rehabilitation  components of the Company's  inpatient and outpatient
business segments are quality of services,  projected patient outcomes,  charges
for  services,  responsiveness  to the  needs  of the  patients,  community  and
physicians,  and ability to tailor  programs and services to meet specific needs
of the  patients.  Competitors  and  potential  competitors  include  hospitals,
private practice therapists,  rehabilitation  agencies and others. Some of these
competitors  may  have  greater  patient  referral  support  and  financial  and
personnel resources in particular markets than the Company.  Management believes
that the Company  competes  successfully  within the marketplace  based upon its
reputation for quality,  competitive prices, positive  rehabilitation  outcomes,
innovative programs, clean and bright facilities and responsiveness to needs.

         The Company's  surgery  centers  compete  primarily  with hospitals and
other  operators of freestanding  surgery  centers in attracting  physicians and
patients and in developing new centers and in acquiring  existing  centers.  The
primary  competitive factors in the outpatient surgery business are convenience,
cost, quality of service, physician loyalty and reputation.  Hospitals have many
competitive   advantages  in  attracting  physicians  and  patients,   including
established   standing  in  a  community,   historical   physician  loyalty  and
convenience for physicians making rounds or performing  inpatient surgery in the
hospital.  However, the Company believes that its national market system and its
historical  presence  in certain of the markets  where its  surgery  centers are
located  will  enhance  the  Company's   ability  to  operate  these  facilities
successfully.

         The Company's  diagnostic  centers compete with local hospitals,  other
multi-center imaging companies, local independent diagnostic centers and imaging
centers owned by local physician groups. The Company believes that the principal
competitive  factors in the diagnostic  services are price,  quality of service,
ability to  establish  and maintain  relationships  with managed care payors and
referring physicians,  reputation of interpreting physicians,  facility location
and convenience of scheduling. Management believes that the Company's diagnostic
facilities compete  successfully  within their respective  markets,  taking into
account these factors.



                                       11






         The  Company's  medical  centers are located in four urban areas of the
country,  all with well established  healthcare services provided by a number of
proprietary,  not-for-profit,  and municipal hospital facilities.  The Company's
facilities  compete  directly  with  these  local  hospitals  as well as various
nationally recognized centers of excellence in orthopaedics, sports medicine and
other  specialties.  Because  the  Company's  facilities  enjoy a  national  and
international  reputation  for  orthopaedic  surgery  and sports  medicine,  the
Company  believes  that its medical  centers'  level of service and continuum of
care enable them to compete successfully, both locally and nationally.

         The  Company  potentially  faces  competition  any time it  initiates a
Certificate of Need ("CON") project or seeks to acquire an existing  facility or
CON. See this Item, "Business -- Regulation".  This competition may arise either
from competing  national or regional  companies or from local hospitals or other
providers which file competing  applications or oppose the proposed CON project.
The  necessity  for these  approvals  serves  as a barrier  to entry and has the
potential to limit  competition by creating a franchise to provide services to a
given area.  The Company has  generally  been  successful  in obtaining  CONs or
similar approvals when required, although there can be no assurance that it will
achieve similar success in the future.

REGULATION

         The healthcare industry is subject to regulation by federal,  state and
local  governments.  The  various  levels  of  regulatory  activity  affect  the
Company's business activities by controlling its growth,  requiring licensure or
certification  of its  facilities,  regulating  the  use of its  properties  and
controlling the reimbursement to the Company for services provided.

Licensure, Certification and Certificate of Need Regulations

         Capital  expenditures  for  the  construction  of new  facilities,  the
addition of beds or the acquisition of existing  facilities may be reviewable by
state regulators  under a statutory  scheme which is sometimes  referred to as a
CON program.  States with CON  programs  place  limits on the  construction  and
acquisition of healthcare  facilities  and the expansion of existing  facilities
and services.  In such states,  approvals are required for capital  expenditures
exceeding certain amounts which involve inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities or
services or outpatient surgery centers. Outpatient rehabilitation,  occupational
health and diagnostic facilities and services do not require such approvals in a
majority of states.

         State CON statutes generally provide that, prior to the addition of new
beds, the construction of new facilities or the introduction of new services,  a
state health planning  designated  agency (a "SHPDA") must determine that a need
exists for those beds,  facilities  or services.  The CON process is intended to
promote  comprehensive  healthcare  planning,  assist in providing  high quality
healthcare at the lowest  possible  cost and avoid  unnecessary  duplication  by
ensuring that only those healthcare facilities that are needed will be built.

         Typically,  the  provider of  services  submits an  application  to the
appropriate  SHPDA with  information  concerning  the area and  population to be
served, the anticipated  demand for the facility or service to be provided,  the
amount of  capital  expenditure,  the  estimated  annual  operating  costs,  the
relationship  of the  proposed  facility or service to the overall  state health
plan and the cost per patient day for the type of care contemplated. Whether the
CON is granted is based upon a finding of need by the SHPDA in  accordance  with
criteria  set forth in CON statutes  and state and  regional  health  facilities
plans.  If the  proposed  facility or service is found to be  necessary  and the
applicant to be the appropriate provider,  the SHPDA will issue a CON containing
a maximum amount of expenditure and a specific time period for the holder of the
CON to implement the approved project.

         Licensure  and  certification  are  separate,  but related,  regulatory
activities. The former is usually a state or local requirement and the latter is
a federal requirement. In almost all instances, licensure and certification will
follow  specific  standards  and  requirements  that are set  forth  in  readily
available  public  documents.  Compliance with the  requirements is monitored by
annual on-site  inspections by representatives  of various government  agencies.
All of the Company's inpatient rehabilitation facilities and medical centers and
substantially all of the Company's surgery centers are currently  required to be
licensed, but only the outpatient  rehabilitation facilities located in Alabama,
Arizona, Kentucky, Maryland,  Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Mexico and Rhode
Island  currently  must satisfy  such a licensing  requirement.  Diagnostic  and
occupational  health facilities are not required to be licensed in a majority of
states.



                                       12






Medicare Participation and Reimbursement

         In order to  participate in the Medicare  program and receive  Medicare
reimbursement,  each facility must comply with the applicable regulations of the
United States  Department of Health and Human Services  relating to, among other
things, the type of facility, its equipment,  its personnel and its standards of
medical  care,  as  well as  compliance  with  all  state  and  local  laws  and
regulations. All of the Company's inpatient facilities, except for the St. Louis
head injury center, participate in the Medicare program.  Approximately 1,065 of
the Company's outpatient  rehabilitation facilities currently participate in, or
are awaiting the assignment of a provider number to participate in, the Medicare
program.  All of the  Company's  surgery  centers  are  certified  (or  awaiting
certification)  under the Medicare program.  Diagnostic and occupational  health
facilities  are not certified by the Medicare  program.  Its  Medicare-certified
facilities,   inpatient  and   outpatient,   undergo  annual  on-site   Medicare
certification surveys in order to maintain their certification  status.  Failure
to comply with the program's  conditions of participation  may result in loss of
program reimbursement or other governmental sanctions.  All such facilities have
been deemed to be in  satisfactory  compliance on all  applicable  surveys.  The
Company has  developed its  operational  systems to assure  compliance  with the
various  standards and  requirements of the Medicare program and has established
ongoing quality assurance activities to monitor compliance. The Company believes
that all of such facilities currently meet all applicable Medicare requirements.

         As a result of the Social  Security Act  Amendments  of 1983,  Congress
adopted a prospective  payment system ("PPS") to cover the routine and ancillary
operating costs of most Medicare inpatient hospital services. Under this system,
the Secretary of Health and Human Services has established fixed payment amounts
per  discharge  based  on  diagnosis-related   groups  ("DRGs").   With  limited
exceptions,  a hospital's payment for Medicare  inpatients is limited to the DRG
rate, regardless of the number of services provided to the patient or the length
of the patient's hospital stay. Under PPS, a hospital may retain the difference,
if any,  between its DRG rate and its  operating  costs  incurred in  furnishing
inpatient  services,  and is at risk for any operating costs that exceed its DRG
rate. The Company's  medical center facilities are generally subject to PPS with
respect to Medicare inpatient services.

         The PPS program has been beneficial for the  rehabilitation  segment of
the healthcare industry because of the economic pressure on acute-care hospitals
to discharge patients as soon as possible.  The result has been increased demand
for rehabilitation  services for those patients discharged early from acute-care
hospitals. Freestanding inpatient rehabilitation facilities are currently exempt
from PPS, and inpatient  rehabilitation  units within acute- care  hospitals are
eligible to obtain an exemption from PPS upon  satisfaction  of certain  federal
criteria.

         Currently,    12   of   the    Company's    outpatient    centers   are
Medicare-certified  Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities ("CORFs")
and 873 are  Medicare-certified  rehabilitation  agencies or satellites thereof.
Additionally,  the Company has certification  applications pending for four CORF
sites  and 176  rehabilitation  agency  sites  (including  satellites.)  Through
December 31, 1998,  CORFs were reimbursed  reasonable  costs (subject to certain
limits)  for  services  provided  to  Medicare  beneficiaries,   and  outpatient
rehabilitation  facilities certified by Medicare as rehabilitation agencies were
reimbursed on the basis of the lower of reasonable  costs for services  provided
to   Medicare   beneficiaries   or  charges   for  such   services.   Outpatient
rehabilitation  facilities  which  are  physician-directed  clinics,  as well as
outpatient  surgery  centers,  are reimbursed by Medicare on a fee screen basis;
that is, they receive a fixed fee, which is determined by the geographical  area
in which the facility is located, for each procedure performed.  From January 1,
1999, CORFs and rehabilitation  agencies are reimbursed on a fee screen basis as
well. The Company's outpatient rehabilitation facilities submit monthly bills to
their fiscal intermediaries for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries, and
the Company  files  annual cost reports  with the  intermediaries  for each such
facility.

         The  Company's  inpatient  facilities  (other than the  medical  center
facilities)  either are not currently covered by PPS or are exempt from PPS, and
are also  cost-reimbursed,  receiving the lower of reasonable  costs or charges.
Typically,  the fiscal  intermediary  pays a set rate based on the prior  year's
costs for each facility.  As with  outpatient  facilities  subject to cost-based
reimbursement,   annual  cost  reports  are  filed  with  the  Company's  fiscal
intermediary and payment adjustments are made, if necessary.

         As part of the  Balanced  Budget  Act of 1997,  Congress  directed  the
United  States  Department of Health and Human  Services to develop  regulations
that would subject inpatient  rehabilitation hospitals to a PPS. The prospective
rates  are to be  phased  in  beginning  October  1,  2000,  and are to be fully
implemented  on October 1, 2002.  The Act requires that the rates must equal 98%
of the  amount of  payments  that  would  have been made if the PPS had not been
adopted.  In addition,  the Act requires the establishment of a PPS for hospital
outpatient  department  services,  effective for services furnished beginning in
1999.  Since the drafting of the  regulations  covering these  initiatives is in
very early stages,  the Company  cannot predict at this time the effect that any
such changes may have on its continuing  operations.  See Item 7,  "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial  Condition and Results of Operations" for a
discussion of the impact  of the  Balanced  Budget  Act  on  certain  businesses
discontinued by the Company in 1998.



                                       13






         In June 1998, the Health Care Financing  Administration issued proposed
rules setting forth new payment classifications which would significantly change
Medicare  reimbursement  for outpatient  surgery centers.  However,  the comment
period for such proposed  rules has now been extended for the third time,  until
June 30, 1999, and the Company  cannot  currently  predict when final rules,  if
any,  will be adopted or the content or effect on the  Company's  operations  of
such rules.

         Over  the  past  several  years  an  increasing  number  of  healthcare
providers  have been accused of violating the federal False Claims Act. That Act
prohibits  the  knowing  presentation  of a false  claim  to the  United  States
government.  Because the Company performs thousands of similar procedures a year
for which it is reimbursed by Medicare and there is a relatively long statute of
limitations,  a billing error could result in significant  civil penalties.  The
Company does not believe that it is or has been in violation of the False Claims
Act.

Relationships with Physicians and Other Providers

         Various state and federal laws regulate  relationships  among providers
of healthcare services, including employment or service contracts and investment
relationships. These restrictions include a federal criminal law prohibiting (i)
the offer,  payment,  solicitation  or receipt of remuneration by individuals or
entities,  to induce  referrals of patients for  services  reimbursed  under the
Medicare  or  Medicaid  programs  or (ii)  the  leasing,  purchasing,  ordering,
arranging for or recommending  the lease,  purchase or order of any item,  good,
facility or service  covered by such  programs  (the "Fraud and Abuse Law").  In
addition to federal criminal sanctions, violators of the Fraud and Abuse Law may
be subject to significant civil sanctions, including fines and/or exclusion from
the Medicare and/or Medicaid programs.

         In 1991,  the  Office of the  Inspector  General  ("OIG") of the United
States  Department  of  Health  and  Human  Services   promulgated   regulations
describing   compensation   arrangements   which  are  not   viewed  as  illegal
remuneration  under the Fraud and Abuse Law (the "Safe Harbor Rules").  The Safe
Harbor Rules create certain  standards  ("Safe Harbors") for identified types of
compensation  arrangements which, if fully complied with, assure participants in
the particular  arrangement that the OIG will not treat such  participation as a
criminal  offense under the Fraud and Abuse Law or as the basis for an exclusion
from the Medicare and Medicaid programs or an imposition of civil sanctions. The
OIG closely scrutinizes healthcare joint ventures involving physicians and other
referral  sources.  In 1989,  the OIG  published  a Fraud  Alert  that  outlined
questionable features of "suspect" joint ventures.

         In  1992,   regulations   were   published  in  the  Federal   Register
implementing the OIG sanction and civil money penalty provisions  established in
the Fraud and Abuse Law. The regulations (the "Exclusion  Regulations")  provide
that the OIG may exclude a Medicare provider from  participation in the Medicare
Program for a five-year  period upon a finding  that the Fraud and Abuse Law has
been violated.  The  regulations  expressly  incorporate a test adopted by three
federal  circuit courts  providing that if one purpose of  remuneration  that is
offered, paid, solicited or received is to induce referrals, then the statute is
violated.  The regulations also provide that after the OIG establishes a factual
basis for excluding a provider  from the program,  the burden of proof shifts to
the provider to prove that the Fraud and Abuse Law has not been violated.

         The Company currently operates 22 of its  rehabilitation  hospitals and
many of its  outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities as limited  partnerships  or
limited  liability  companies  (collectively,  "partnerships")  with third-party
investors.  Seven of the rehabilitation  hospital partnerships involve physician
investors,   13  of  the  rehabilitation  hospital  partnerships  involve  other
institutional  healthcare  providers  and  two  of the  rehabilitation  hospital
partnerships involve both institutional  providers and other investors,  some of
whom are physicians. Seven of the outpatient partnerships currently have a total
of  20  physician  limited  partners,  some  of  whom  refer  patients   to  the
partnerships.  Those  partnerships  which are  providers  of services  under the
Medicare program, and their limited partners, are subject to the Fraud and Abuse
Law. A number of the  relationships  established by the Company with  physicians
and other  healthcare  providers do not fit within any of the Safe Harbors.  The
Safe Harbor Rules do not expand the scope of activities that the Fraud and Abuse
Law  prohibits,  nor do they  provide  that failure to fall within a Safe Harbor
constitutes  a  violation  of the  Fraud  and Abuse  Law;  however,  the OIG has
informally  indicated  that  failure to fall within a Safe Harbor may subject an
arrangement to increased scrutiny.

         Most of the Company's surgery centers are owned by partnerships,  which
include as partners  physicians who perform surgical procedures at such centers.
Subsequent to the  promulgation of the Safe Harbor Rules in 1991, the Department
of Health and Human Services issued for public comment additional  proposed Safe
Harbors,  one of which  specifically  addresses surgeon  ownership  interests in
ambulatory  surgery centers (the "Proposed ASC Safe Harbor").  As proposed,  the
Proposed  ASC Safe  Harbor  would  protect  payments to be made to surgeons as a
return on investment  interest in a surgery  center if, among other  conditions,
all the investors are surgeons who are in a position to refer patients  directly
to the center and perform surgery on such referred patients.  Since a subsidiary



                                       14





of the Company is an investor in each limited  partnership  which owns a surgery
center,  the Company's  arrangements with physician  investors do not fit within
the  Proposed ASC Safe Harbor as  currently  proposed.  The Company is unable at
this time to predict whether the Proposed ASC Safe Harbor will become final, and
if so, whether the language and requirements will remain as currently  proposed,
or  whether  changes  will be made  prior to  becoming  final.  There  can be no
assurance  that the Company will ever meet the  criteria  under the Proposed ASC
Safe  Harbor as  proposed  or as it may be adopted in final  form.  The  Company
believes,  however,  that its  arrangements  with physicians with respect to its
surgery center  facilities  should not fall within the activities  prohibited by
the Fraud and Abuse Law.

         Certain of the  Company's  diagnostic  centers are owned or operated by
partnerships  which  include  radiologists  as  partners.  While such  ownership
interests are not directly  covered by the Safe Harbor  Rules,  the Company does
not  believe  that such  arrangements  violate  the Fraud and Abuse Law  because
radiologists  are  typically  not in a position to make or induce  referrals  to
diagnostic centers. In addition, the Company's mobile lithotripsy operations are
conducted by partnerships in which urologists are limited partners. Because such
urologists  are  in a  position  to,  and  do,  perform  lithotripsy  procedures
utilizing the Company's  lithotripsy  equipment,  the Company  believes that the
same analysis  underlying the Proposed ASC Safe Harbor should apply to ownership
interests in lithotripsy equipment held by urologists.  In addition, the Company
believes that the nature of  lithotripsy  services  (i.e.,  lithotripsy  is only
prescribed and utilized when a condition for which  lithotripsy is the treatment
of choice has been diagnosed) makes the risk of overutilization  unlikely. There
can be no  assurance,  however,  that  the  Fraud  and  Abuse  Law  will  not be
interpreted  in a manner  contrary  to the  Company's  beliefs  with  respect to
diagnostic and lithotripsy services.

         While several  federal court  decisions have  aggressively  applied the
restrictions  of the Fraud and Abuse Law, they provide little guidance as to the
application  of the  Fraud  and Abuse  Law to the  Company's  partnerships.  The
Company  believes  that it is in  compliance  with the current  requirements  of
applicable  federal and state law, but no assurances can be given that a federal
or state agency charged with  enforcement of the Fraud and Abuse Law and similar
laws might not assert a contrary  position or that new federal or state laws, or
new  interpretations of existing laws, might not adversely affect  relationships
established  by the Company with  physicians  or other  healthcare  providers or
result  in  the  imposition  of  penalties  on the  Company  or  certain  of its
facilities.  Even the  assertion  of a violation  could have a material  adverse
effect upon the Company.

         The   so-called   "Stark  II"   provisions   of  the   Omnibus   Budget
Reconciliation  Act of 1993 amend the federal  Medicare  statute to prohibit the
making by a physician of referrals for "designated  health services"  (including
physical therapy, occupational therapy, radiology services or radiation therapy)
to an  entity  in  which  the  physician  has an  investment  interest  or other
financial  relationship,  subject to certain  exceptions.  Such prohibition took
effect on January 1, 1995 and applies to all of the Company's  partnerships with
physician  partners.  On  January 9, 1998,  the  Department  of Health and Human
Services published proposed regulations (the "Proposed Stark Regulations") under
the  Stark II  statute  and  solicited  comments  thereon.  The  Proposed  Stark
Regulations  would  implement,  amplify and clarify the Stark II statute.  Final
regulations are not expected to be promulgated until after 1999. In addition,  a
number of states have passed or are considering statutes which prohibit or limit
physician  referrals of patients to  facilities in which they have an investment
interest.  In  response  to  these  regulatory   activities,   the  Company  has
restructured most of its partnerships  which involve physician  investors to the
extent  required by applicable  law, in order to eliminate  physician  ownership
interests  not  permitted by  applicable  law. The Company  intends to take such
actions  as may  be  required  to  cause  the  remaining  partnerships  to be in
compliance with applicable laws and regulations,  including,  if necessary,  the
prohibition of physician partners from referring patients.  The Company believes
that this restructuring has not adversely affected and will not adversely affect
the operations of its facilities.

         Ambulatory  surgery is not identified as a "designated  health service"
under  Stark II, and the  Company  does not  believe  the statute is intended to
cover  ambulatory  surgery  services.   The  Proposed  Stark  Regulations  would
expressly  clarify  that the  provision  of  designated  health  services  in an
ambulatory  surgery  center would be excepted from the referral  prohibition  of
Stark II if payment  for such  designated  health  services  is  included in the
ambulatory surgery center payment rate.

         Lithotripsy  facilities  operated by the Company  frequently operate on
hospital  campuses,  and it is  possible  to  conclude  that such  services  are
"inpatient and outpatient  hospital services" -- a category of designated health
services  under  Stark II.  The  legislative  history  of the  Stark II  statute
indicates  that  the  statute  was  not  intended  to  cover  the  provision  of
lithotripsy  services by  physician-owned  lithotripsy  providers under contract
with a hospital.  In the  commentary  to the  Proposed  Stark  Regulations,  the
Department of Health and Human Services  specifically  solicited  comments as to
whether  lithotripsy   services  should  be  excluded  from  the  definition  of
"inpatient  and outpatient  hospital  services".  In the event that  lithotripsy
services are not so excluded,  the Company  believes that the  operations of its
lithotripsy  partnerships  either comply with, or can be  restructured to comply
with,  certain other exceptions to the Stark II referral  prohibitions,  and the
Company  intends  to  take  such  steps  as  may  be  required  to  cause  those
partnerships  to be in  compliance  with  Stark II if the final  regulations  so
require. In addition, physicians frequently perform endoscopic procedures in the
procedure rooms of the Company's surgery centers, and it is possible to construe
such services to be  "designated  health  services".  While the Company does not
believe  that  Stark II was  intended  to apply to such  services,  if that were
determined to be the case, the Company  intends to take steps necessary to cause
the operations of its facilities to comply with the law.



                                       15





The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996

         In an effort to combat  healthcare  fraud,  Congress  included  several
anti-fraud  measures in the Health Insurance  Portability and Accountability Act
of 1996  ("HIPAA").  HIPAA,  among  other  things,  amends  existing  crimes and
criminal  penalties for Medicare fraud and enacts new federal  healthcare  fraud
crimes.  HIPAA  also  expands  the Fraud  and Abuse Law to apply to all  federal
healthcare programs, defined to include any plan or program that provides health
benefits  through  insurance  that is funded by the  federal  government.  Under
HIPAA,  the  Secretary  of the  Department  of Health  and Human  Services  (the
"Secretary")  may exclude from the  Medicare  program any  individual  who has a
direct or indirect ownership or control interest in a healthcare entity that has
been  convicted of a healthcare  fraud crime or that has been  excluded from the
Medicare program.  HIPAA directs the Secretary to establish a program to collect
information  on healthcare  fraud and abuse to encourage  individuals  to report
information concerning fraud and abuse against the Medicare program and provides
for  payment  of a portion  of  amounts  collected  to such  individuals.  HIPAA
mandates the  establishment of a Fraud and Abuse Program,  among other programs,
to  control  fraud and  abuse  with  respect  to  health  plans  and to  conduct
investigations, audits, evaluations, and inspections relating to the delivery of
and payment for healthcare in the United States.

         HIPAA  prohibits  any person or entity  from  knowingly  and  willfully
committing  a  federal  healthcare  offense  relating  to a  healthcare  benefit
program.  Under  HIPAA,  a "health care benefit  program"  broadly  includes any
private plan or contract affecting  interstate  commerce under which any medical
benefit,  item,  or service is provided to any  individual.  Among the  "federal
health care offenses"  prohibited by HIPAA are healthcare fraud and making false
statements relative to healthcare  matters.  Any person or entity that knowingly
and willfully  defrauds or attempts to defraud a healthcare  benefit  program or
obtains by means of false or fraudulent pretenses,  representations or promises,
any of the money or property of any  healthcare  benefit  program in  connection
with  the  delivery  of  healthcare   services  is  subject  to  a  fine  and/or
imprisonment.  In  addition,  HIPAA  provides  that any  person or  entity  that
knowingly  and  willfully  falsifies,  conceals or covers up a material  fact or
makes any  materially  false or fraudulent  statements  in  connection  with the
delivery of or payment of  healthcare  services by a healthcare  benefit plan is
subject to a fine and/or imprisonment.

         HIPAA  further  expands  the list of acts  which are  subject  to civil
monetary penalties under federal law and increases the amount of civil penalties
which may be imposed.  HIPAA provides for civil fines for individuals who retain
an ownership or control interest in a Medicare or Medicaid  participating entity
after such individuals have been excluded from  participating in the Medicare or
Medicaid  program.  HIPAA further  provides for civil fines for  individuals who
offer  inducements to Medicare or Medicaid  eligible patients if the individuals
know or should know that their  offers will  influence  the patients to order or
receive items or services from a particular provider, practitioner or supplier.

         The Company  cannot  predict  whether  other  regulatory  or  statutory
provisions will be enacted by federal or state  authorities which would prohibit
or otherwise  regulate  relationships  which the Company has  established or may
establish  with other  healthcare  providers or the  possibility  of  materially
adverse  effects on its business or revenues  arising from such future  actions.
Management of the Company  believes,  however,  that the Company will be able to
adjust its operations so as to be in compliance with any regulatory or statutory
provision  as may be  applicable.  See this  Item,  "Business  --  Patient  Care
Services" and "Business -- Sources of Revenues".

INSURANCE

         Beginning  December  1,  1993,  the  Company  became  self-insured  for
professional   liability  and  comprehensive  general  liability.   The  Company
purchased  coverage  for all claims  incurred  prior to  December  1,  1993.  In
addition,  the  Company  purchased  underlying  insurance  which would cover all
claims  once  established  limits  have  been  exceeded.  It is the  opinion  of
management  that as of December 31, 1998,  the Company had adequate  reserves to
cover losses on asserted and unasserted claims.

         In connection  with the  Horizon/CMS  acquisition,  the Company assumed
Horizon/CMS's  open professional and general  liability claims.  The Company has
entered into an agreement with an insurance carrier to assume responsibility for
the majority of open claims.  Under this  agreement,  a "risk transfer" is being
conducted  which  will  convert  Horizon/CMS's  self-insured  claims to  insured
liabilities consistent with the terms of the underlying insurance policy.

         In connection  with the risk  transfer,  the carrier has questioned the
availability of coverage for punitive damages.  The Company and Horizon/CMS have
filed a declaratory  judgment action in the United States District Court for the
District of New Mexico  seeking a declaration  that such damages are required to
be  covered  (HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  et al.  v. St.  Paul  Fire  and  Marine
Insurance Company, et al., Civ. No. 98-800 BB/DIS-ACE).  Thereafter, the carrier
filed an action  seeking a contrary  declaration  in the United States  District
Court for the



                                       16






Northern District of Texas (St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance  Company,  et al.
v. Horizon/CMS Healthcare  Corporation,  et al., Civil Action No. 4-98CV-575-Y).
The parties  have filed  preliminary  motions in both  actions,  and the Company
cannot now predict the outcome or effect of these  actions or the length of time
it will take to resolve them.

EMPLOYEES

         As of December  31, 1998,  the Company  employed  approximately  51,901
persons,  of whom  32,558 were  full-time  employees  and 19,343 were  part-time
employees.  Of  the  above  employees,   821  were  employed  at  the  Company's
headquarters in Birmingham,  Alabama.  Except for  approximately 77 employees at
one rehabilitation hospital (about 14.6% of that facility's workforce),  none of
the Company's  employees are  represented  by a labor union.  The Company is not
aware of any current  activities to organize its employees at other  facilities.
Management of the Company considers the relationship between the Company and its
employees to be good.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.

         The  Company's   executive  offices  currently  occupy  a  headquarters
building of  approximately  200,000  square  feet in  Birmingham,  Alabama.  The
headquarters  building,  which was occupied by the Company in February 1997, was
constructed on a 73-acre  parcel of land owned by the Company  pursuant to a tax
retention operating lease structured through  NationsBanc  Leasing  Corporation.
Substantially all of the Company's  outpatient  rehabilitation  and occupational
health operations are carried out in leased  facilities.  The Company owns 29 of
its inpatient rehabilitation  facilities and leases or operates under management
contracts the remainder of its inpatient rehabilitation  facilities. The Company
also owns 62 of its surgery centers and 35 of its diagnostic  centers and leases
or operates under management arrangements the remainder. The Company constructed
its rehabilitation hospitals in Florence and Columbia, South Carolina, Kingsport
and Nashville,  Tennessee,  Concord, New Hampshire,  Dothan, Alabama,  Columbia,
Missouri,  and  Charlottesville,  Virginia on property  leased  under  long-term
ground  leases.  The  property  on  which  the  Company's   Memphis,   Tennessee
rehabilitation  hospital is located is owned in  partnership  by the Company and
Methodist  Hospitals  of  Memphis.  The  Company  owns its four  medical  center
facilities.  The  Company  currently  owns,  and from time to time may  acquire,
certain other improved and  unimproved  real  properties in connection  with its
business.  See Notes 5 and 7 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for
information  with  respect to the  properties  owned by the  Company and certain
indebtedness related thereto.

         In management's opinion, the Company's physical properties are adequate
for the Company's needs for the foreseeable  future, and are consistent with its
expansion plans described elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



                                       17






      The following table sets forth a listing of the Company's primary domestic
patient care services  locations  (including both facilities  owned or leased by
the Company and facilities under management  agreements or similar arrangements)
at December 31, 1998,  exclusive of those facilities to be closed,  consolidated
or sold pursuant to plans adopted in 1998:



                         INPATIENT                          OCCUPATIONAL      OUTPATIENT
                      REHABILITATION          MEDICAL          HEALTH       REHABILITATION    SURGERY     DIAGNOSTIC
STATE              FACILITIES (BEDS)(1)  CENTERS (BEDS)(1)     CENTERS        CENTERS(2)      CENTERS       CENTERS
- - - -----              --------------------  -----------------     -------        ----------      -------       -------
                                                                                                
Alabama                   8  (404)            1 (219)                             32             7             4

Alaska                                                            4                7             1             1
Arizona                   4  (243)                                8               27             2             1
Arkansas                  6  (309)                                5               25             2
California                1  (60)                                27               51            50             3
Colorado                  1  (64)                                 1               35             5             5
Connecticut               1  (26)                                 2               18             6
Delaware                                                                           6             1
District of Columbia                                                               1                           1
Florida                   9  (631)            1 (285)             6               83            18             8
Georgia                   1  (50)                                 4               29             4            11
Hawaii                                                                            10             1
Idaho                                                                              4             1
Illinois                                                          1               55             7            10
Indiana                   3  (200)                                2               14             5             1
Iowa                                                              1                3             2
Kansas                    4  (224)                                                11
Kentucky                  2  (80)                                 2                4             6
Louisiana                 5  (287)                                3                5             2             3
Maine                     2  (125)                                                11
Maryland                  1  (44)                                                 28             9             6
Massachusetts            11  (921)                                1               52             1             2
Michigan                  1  (30)                                 3               12
Minnesota                                                                         15             2
Mississippi                                                                        8             3
Missouri                  2  (160)                                1               55             8             1
Montana                                                                            4             1
Nebraska                                                          1                5
Nevada                    2  (130)                                                22             3
New Hampshire             3  (98)                                                  9
New Jersey                1  (155)                                1               66             3             3
New Mexico                1  (61)                                 1                6             1             1

New York                  1  (27)                                                 47             1             3
North Carolina                                                                    22            10             1
North Dakota                                                                       4
Ohio                      1  (30)                                 3               36             7
Oklahoma                  3  (155)                                1               18             5             1
Oregon                                                                            31             1
Pennsylvania             14  (1,049)                              3               57             6             8
Rhode Island                                                                       2             2
South Carolina            3  (216)                                                 8             2             5
South Dakota                                                      4                1
Tennessee                 7  (407)                                                25             5             4
Texas                    19  (1,114)          1 (106)            10              108            18            22
Utah                      1  (86)                                 2               10             2
Vermont                                                           1                2
Virginia                  2  (90)             1 (200)             4               25             1             6
Washington                                                       17               72             5             1
West Virginia             4  (214)                                                 3             1
Wisconsin                                                                          1             4
Wyoming                                                                            2


       -----------------------

       (1)   "Beds"  refers  to the  number  of  beds  for  which a  license  or
             certificate  of need has been  granted,  which may vary  materially
             from beds available for use.



                                       18







       (2)   Includes  freestanding  outpatient  centers  and their  satellites,
             outpatient  satellites of inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities and
             outpatient facilities managed under contract.

       In addition,  at December 31, 1998,  the Company  operated six diagnostic
centers in the United Kingdom and one rehabilitation  hospital in Australia,  as
well as numerous locations in various states providing other services.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

         In the  ordinary  course of its  business,  the Company may be subject,
from time to time,  to claims and legal  actions by  patients  and  others.  The
Company does not believe that any such pending  actions,  if adversely  decided,
would have a material  adverse  effect on its financial  condition.  See Item 1,
"Business -- Insurance"  and Item 7,  "Management's  Discussion  and Analysis of
Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations"  for a  description  of  the
Company's insurance coverage arrangements.

         From time to time, the Company appeals decisions of various rate-making
authorities  with  respect  to  Medicare  rates  established  for the  Company's
facilities.  These  appeals are  initiated in the  ordinary  course of business.
Management  believes that adequate  reserves have been  established for possible
adverse  decisions  on any pending  appeals and that the  outcomes of  currently
pending appeals, either individually or in the aggregate,  will have no material
adverse effect on the Company's operations.

SECURITIES LITIGATION

         The  Company  has been served with  certain  lawsuits  filed  beginning
September  30,  1998 which  purport to be class  actions  under the  federal and
Alabama  securities  laws.  Such lawsuits were filed  following a decline in the
Company's stock price at the end of the third quarter of 1998.  Seven such suits
have been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
Alabama:  Robert M. Gordon,  et al. v.  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  et al., Civil
Action No.  98-J-2634-S,  Twin Plus LLC, et al. v. HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  et
al.,  Civil  Action  No.  98-PWG-2695-S,  Irene  Rigas,  et al.  v.  HEALTHSOUTH
Corporation,  et  al.,  Civil  Action  No.  98-RRA-2777-S,   Harry  Schipper  v.
HEALTHSOUTH Corporation, et al., Civil Action No. 98-N-2779-S, Ryan McCormick v.
HEALTHSOUTH Corporation,  et al., Civil Action No. 98-RRA-2831-S,  United Food &
Commercial Workers Union Local 100-A Pension Fund v. HEALTHSOUTH Corporation, et
al., Civil Action No. 98-BU-2869-S, and Vinod Parikh v. HEALTHSOUTH Corporation,
et al.,  Civil  Action  No.  98-BU-2869-S.  These  are  substantially  identical
complaints  filed  against the Company and certain of its officers and Directors
alleging that, during the period August 12, 1997 through September 30, 1998, the
defendants   misrepresented   or  failed  to  disclose  certain  material  facts
concerning  the  Company's   business  and  financial   condition  in  order  to
artificially  inflate the price of the Company's Common Stock and issued or sold
shares of such  stock  during the  purported  class  period,  all  allegedly  in
violation of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5
thereunder.  Certain  of the named  plaintiffs  in some of the  complaints  also
purport to represent separate  subclasses  consisting of former  stockholders of
Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corporation  and  National  Surgery  Centers,  Inc. who
received  shares of the Company's  Common Stock in connection with the Company's
acquisition of those entities and assert  additional  claims under Section 11 of
the Securities Act of 1933 with respect to the registration of securities issued
in those  acquisitions.  In January 1999,  these  complaints  were ordered to be
consolidated,  with a consolidated amended complaint due to be filed on April 5,
1999 (after a one-month extension requested by the plaintiffs' counsel). Another
suit,  Peter J. Petrunya v.  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  et al., Civil Action No.
98-05931, was filed in the Circuit Court for Jefferson County, Alabama, alleging
that during the period July 16, 1996 through  September 30, 1998 the  defendants
misrepresented  or failed to disclose  certain  material  facts  concerning  the
Company's  business and financial  condition,  allegedly in violation of Section
8-6-17 and 8-6-19 of the Alabama  Securities  Act.  The Petrunya  complaint  was
voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff without prejudice in January 1999.

       Additionally, a suit styled Dennis Family Trust v. Richard M. Scrushy, et
al.,  Civil  Action  No.  98-06592,  has been  filed in the  Circuit  Court  for
Jefferson County,  Alabama,  purportedly as a derivative action on behalf of the
Company.  That suit largely  replicates the  allegations of the federal  actions
described in the preceding  paragraph and alleges that the current  Directors of
the  Company,  certain  former  Directors  and  certain  officers of the Company
breached their  fiduciary  duties to the Company and engaged in other  allegedly
tortious  conduct.  The  plaintiff in that case has forborne  pursuing its claim
thus far pending further  progress in the federal  actions,  and the Company has
not yet been required to file a responsive pleading in the case.

         The Company  believes  that all claims  asserted in the above suits are
without merit,  and expects to vigorously  defend  against such claims.  Because
such suits have only recently been filed, the Company cannot predict the outcome
of any such  suits  or the  magnitude  of any  potential  loss if the  Company's
defense is unsuccessful.



                                       19






CERTAIN HORIZON/CMS LITIGATION

       On October 29, 1997,  HEALTHSOUTH acquired Horizon/CMS through the merger
of  a  wholly  owned  subsidiary  of  HEALTHSOUTH  with  and  into  Horizon/CMS.
Horizon/CMS is currently a party, or is subject,  to certain material litigation
matters  and  disputes,  which are  described  below,  as well as various  other
litigation  matters and disputes arising in the ordinary course of its business.
The Company is not itself a party to the litigation described below.

SEC and NYSE Investigations

         The  Division  of  Enforcement  of the  SEC  has  for  some  time  been
conducting a private  investigation with respect to trading in the securities of
Horizon/CMS and Continental Medical Systems, Inc. ("CMS"), which was acquired by
Horizon/CMS  in June 1995. In connection  with that  investigation,  Horizon/CMS
produced  certain  documents,  and Neal M. Elliott,  then Chairman of the Board,
President and Chief Executive  Officer of Horizon/CMS,  and certain other former
officers of Horizon/CMS  have given  testimony to the SEC.  Horizon/CMS has also
been informed that certain of its division  office  employees and an individual,
affiliates of whom had limited business  relationships  with  Horizon/CMS,  have
responded to subpoenas from the SEC. Mr. Elliott also produced certain documents
in response to a subpoena from the SEC. In addition, Horizon/CMS and Mr. Elliott
have  responded  to separate  subpoenas  from the SEC  pertaining  to trading in
Horizon/CMS's common stock and various material press releases issued in 1996 by
Horizon/CMS; Horizon/CMS's February 18, 1997 announcement that the Company would
acquire  Horizon/CMS;  and any  discussions  of proposed  business  combinations
between  Horizon/CMS  and Medical  Innovations and Horizon/CMS and certain other
companies.  The Company and Horizon/CMS  have no knowledge of the current status
of the investigation,  and neither Horizon/CMS nor the Company possesses all the
facts  with  respect  to  the  matters  under  investigation.  Although  neither
Horizon/CMS  nor the  Company  has  been  advised  by the SEC  that  the SEC has
concluded  that any of  Horizon/CMS,  Mr. Elliott or any other current or former
officer or director of  Horizon/CMS  has been  involved in any  violation of the
federal  securities  laws,  there can be no  assurance  as to the outcome of the
investigation  or the time of its conclusion.  Both  Horizon/CMS and the Company
have,  to the  extent  requested  to  date,  cooperated  fully  with  the SEC in
connection with the investigation.

         In March 1995, the New York Stock Exchange informed Horizon/CMS that it
had initiated a review of trading in Hillhaven Corporation common stock prior to
the announcement of Horizon/CMS's  proposed  acquisition of Hillhaven.  In April
1995,  the NYSE extended the review of trading to include all dealings with CMS.
On April 3, 1996, the NYSE notified  Horizon/CMS  that it had initiated a review
of trading  in its  common  stock  preceding  Horizon/CMS's  March 1, 1996 press
release announcing a revision in Horizon/CMS's  third quarter earnings estimate.
On February  20,  1997,  the NYSE  notified  Horizon/CMS  that it was  reviewing
trading in Horizon/CMS's  securities prior to the February 18, 1997 announcement
that the Company would acquire Horizon/CMS.  Horizon/CMS has cooperated with the
NYSE in its reviews and has no knowledge of the current status of such reviews.

         In February  1997,  the Company  received a subpoena  from the SEC with
respect to its  investigation  concerning  trading in  Horizon/CMS  common stock
prior to the  February  18, 1997  announcement  that the Company  would  acquire
Horizon/CMS and a request for  information  from the NYSE in connection with its
review of such trading.  The Company  responded to such subpoena and request for
information  and advised both the SEC and the NYSE that it intended to cooperate
fully in any  investigations  or reviews  relating to such trading.  The Company
provided certain additional information to the SEC in April 1997.

         Neither the Company nor Horizon/CMS has received any further  inquiries
from the SEC or the NYSE with  respect  to the  matters  described  above  since
mid-1997,   and  the  Company  is  unaware  of  the   current   status  of  such
investigations or reviews. The Company does not intend to describe these matters
in future  reports unless it becomes aware of new  developments  with respect to
them.

Michigan  Attorney  General  Litigation  Regarding  Long-Term  Care  Facility In
Michigan

         Horizon/CMS  learned in September 1996 that the Attorney General of the
State of Michigan was investigating one of its skilled nursing  facilities.  The
facility,  in Howell,  Michigan,  was owned and  operated  by  Horizon/CMS  from
February  1994 until  December 31, 1997.  As widely  reported in the press,  the
Attorney  General seized a number of patient,  financial and accounting  records
that were located at this facility. By order of a circuit judge in the county in
which the  facility  is  located,  the  Attorney  General  was ordered to return
patient records to the facility for copying.



                                       20






Horizon/CMS  advised  the  Michigan  Attorney  General  that it was  willing  to
cooperate  fully in the  investigation.  The  facility in  question  was sold by
Horizon/CMS to IHS on December 31, 1997.

         On February 19, 1998, the State of Michigan filed a criminal  complaint
against  Horizon/CMS,  four  former  employees  of the  facility  and one former
Horizon/CMS  regional manager,  alleging various  violations in 1995 and 1996 of
certain  statutes  relating to patient  care,  patient  medical  records and the
making of false  statements  with respect to the  condition or operations of the
facility (State of Michigan v.  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corp., et al., Case No.
98-630-FY,  State of Michigan  District Court 54B). The maximum fines chargeable
against  Horizon/CMS  under the counts  alleged in the  complaint  (exclusive of
charges against the individual  defendants,  some of which charges may result in
indemnification  obligations for  Horizon/CMS)  aggregate  $69,000.  Horizon/CMS
denies the  allegations  made in the complaint and expects to vigorously  defend
against the charges.  The litigation has continued at the pretrial hearing phase
for several months,  including numerous adjournments,  and such pretrial hearing
phase is not expected to conclude  until April 1999,  after which time the court
will determine  which, if any,  charges may be brought to trial.  Because of the
preliminary  status of this  litigation,  it is not  possible to predict at this
time the outcome or effect of this litigation or the length of time it will take
to resolve this litigation.

Lawsuit by Former Shareholders of Communi-Care, Inc. and Pro Rehab, Inc.

         On May 28, 1997, CMS was served with a lawsuit  styled Kenneth  Hubbard
and Lynn Hubbard v. Rocco Ortenzio,  Robert A. Ortenzio and Continental  Medical
Systems, Inc., No. 3:97 CV294MCK,  filed in the United States District Court for
the  Western  District  of North  Carolina,  Charlotte  Division,  by the former
shareholders of Communi-Care,  Inc. and Pro Rehab,  Inc. seeking damages arising
out of certain "earnout"  provisions of the definitive purchase agreements under
which CMS purchased the outstanding  stock of Communi-Care,  Inc. and Pro Rehab,
Inc. from such shareholders.  The plaintiffs allege that the manner in which CMS
and the other defendants operated the companies after their acquisition breached
its fiduciary duties to the plaintiffs,  constituted fraud, gross negligence and
bad faith and a breach of their employment  agreements with the companies.  As a
result of such alleged conduct,  the plaintiffs assert that they are entitled to
damages in an amount in excess of $27,000,000 from CMS and the other defendants.
Horizon/CMS believes, based upon its evaluation of the legal and factual matters
relating  to the  plaintiffs'  assertions,  that it has  valid  defenses  to the
plaintiffs' claims and, as a result,  intends to vigorously contest such claims.
Because this  litigation  remains at a  procedurally  early  stage,  the Company
cannot now  predict the  outcome or effect of such  litigation  or the length of
time it will take to resolve such litigation.

EEOC Litigation

         In March 1997, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the "EEOC")
filed a complaint against  Horizon/CMS  alleging that Horizon/CMS had engaged in
unlawful  employment  practices in respect of Horizon/CMS's  employment policies
related  to  pregnancies.  Specifically,  the EEOC  asserts  that  Horizon/CMS's
alleged refusal to provide  pregnant  employees with  light-duty  assignments to
accommodate their temporary  disabilities  caused by pregnancy violates Sections
701(k) and 703(a) of Title VII, 42 U.S.C.  ss.ss.  2000e-(k) and 2000e-2(a).  In
this  lawsuit,  the EEOC  seeks,  among  other  things,  to  permanently  enjoin
Horizon/CMS's  employment  practices  in this regard.  Horizon/CMS  disputes the
factual  and legal  assertions  of the EEOC in this  litigation  and  intends to
vigorously  contest the EEOC's  claims.  Because  this  litigation  remains at a
procedurally  early stage, the Company cannot predict the length of time it will
take to resolve the litigation or the outcome of the litigation.

Heritage Western Hills Litigation

         Since July 1996,  Horizon/CMS  has been a defendant in a lawsuit styled
Lexa A. Auld,  Administratrix of Martha Hary, Deceased v. Horizon/CMS Healthcare
Corporation and Charles T. Maxvill, D.O., No. 48-165121,  48th Judicial District
Court, Tarrant County, Texas. The case involved injuries allegedly suffered by a
resident of the Heritage  Western Hills nursing  facility in Fort Worth,  Texas.
Horizon/CMS tendered the claim to its insurance carrier, which accepted coverage
with a  reservation  of rights and  provided  a defense  through  the  carrier's
selected  counsel in Dallas,  Texas. The case went to trial on October 29, 1997,
and on November 7, 1997,  the jury  rendered a verdict in favor of the plaintiff
in the amount of $2,370,000 in compensatory  damages and $90,000,000 in punitive
damages.  Counsel has advised  Horizon/CMS that, under applicable Texas law, the
punitive  damages  award is, at worst,  limited  to four times the amount of the
compensatory  damages (the "Punitive  Damages  Cap"),  and thus that the maximum
amount of an  enforceable  judgment in favor of the  plaintiff is  approximately
$12,000,000.  Counsel has also advised Horizon/CMS that there are,  potentially,
other and further caps on both the amount of compensatory  damages  available to
the plaintiff and the amount of punitive damages. Horizon/CMS filed the required
motions with the court to impose the Punitive Damages Cap. On February 20, 1998,
the court  reduced  the jury's  verdict  and entered a judgment in the amount of
approximately $11,237,000. Horizon/CMS also vigorously disputes the



                                       21






efficacy of the jury's  verdict and has appealed the judgment.  The judgment was
left unchanged by the intermediate  appellate court and is now being appealed to
the Texas Supreme Court.

         Horizon/CMS's  insurance carrier continues to defend the matter subject
to a  reservation  of  rights.  Horizon/CMS,  based  upon an  evaluation  by its
then-current  internal  counsel,  after reviewing the findings  contained in the
jury verdict,  the insurance  policy at issue and the carrier's  handling of the
case,  believes that the entirety of any judgment  ultimately entered is covered
by and payable  from such  insurance  policy,  less  Horizon/CMS's  self-insured
retention  of  $250,000.  On November  19,  1997,  the  insurance  carrier  sent
Horizon/CMS a letter  indicating its belief that certain policy exclusions might
apply and  requesting  additional  information  which might  affect its coverage
determination. Horizon/CMS has retained separate counsel to analyze the coverage
issues  and advise  Horizon/CMS  on its  position,  and  Horizon/CMS  expects to
continue  to  negotiate  any  coverage  issues  with  its  carrier.   Settlement
negotiations  by  Horizon/CMS's  insurance  carrier,  in  conjunction  with  the
Company's retained counsel,  continue with the plaintiff.  It is not possible at
this time to predict the outcome of any appeals,  the resolution of any coverage
issues, the outcome of any settlement negotiations or the ultimate amount of any
liability  which  will  be  borne  by  Horizon/CMS.  See  Item 1,  "Business  --
Insurance".

HEALTH IMAGES/FONAR LITIGATION

         On  February  2,  1998,  Fonar  Corporation  ("Fonar")  filed an action
against HEALTHSOUTH in the United States District Court for the Eastern District
of New York styled Fonar  Corporation  v.  HEALTHSOUTH,  Inc.,  Civil Action No.
98-CV-679 (LDW)(ARL). In the complaint, Fonar alleges that HEALTHSOUTH infringed
United States Patent Number  4,871,966 (the "'966 patent") which pertains to the
operation of the Multi-Angle  Oblique  ("MAO") feature in MRI machines.  The MAO
feature  enables the MRI machine to scan multiple  differing  angles in a single
MAO scan.  Fonar seeks  damages in an  unspecified  amount,  along with enhanced
damages for alleged willful  infringement.  Fonar's  allegations of infringement
and willful infringement are based largely on the actions of Health Images prior
to its  acquisition  by  HEALTHSOUTH  in  March  3,  1997.  Health  Images,  and
subsequently HEALTHSOUTH,  are alleged to have infringed the '966 patent through
the manufacture and use of MRI equipment that contains the MAO feature.

         HEALTHSOUTH has answered Fonar's  complaint  denying the allegations of
infringement,  and filed a third-party  complaint against Picker  International,
Inc.,  which seeks  indemnity for those machines  purchased by Health Images and
HEALTHSOUTH from Picker alleged to infringe the '966 patent. At this time, since
discovery  has not yet  commenced,  HEALTHSOUTH  cannot  predict  the outcome or
effect of this  litigation  or the length of time it will take to  resolve  this
litigation.  The court has set the matter  for a final  pretrial  conference  on
September 15, 2000.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

         Not applicable.



                                       22






                                     PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

         The Company's  common stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock
Exchange  (Symbol:  HRC). The following  table sets forth for the fiscal periods
indicated the high and low reported  sale prices for the Company's  common stock
as reported on the NYSE Composite  Transactions Tape. All prices shown have been
adjusted  for a  two-for-one  stock  split  effected in the form of a 100% stock
dividend paid on March 17, 1997.



                                                                                            REPORTED
                                                                                           SALE PRICE       
                                                                                     --------------------------
                                                                                      HIGH               LOW   
                                                                                     --------           ------   

         1997
         ----
                                                                                                      
         First Quarter..............................................................    $ 22.38         $ 17.94
         Second Quarter.............................................................      27.12           17.75
         Third Quarter..............................................................      28.94           23.12
         Fourth Quarter.............................................................      28.31           22.00

         1998
         ----

         First Quarter..............................................................    $ 30.44         $ 21.69
         Second Quarter.............................................................      30.81           25.75
         Third Quarter..............................................................      30.12            8.88
         Fourth Quarter.............................................................      15.88            7.69


                            -------------------------

         The closing price for the Company's  common stock on the New York Stock
Exchange on March 29, 1999, was $11.125.

         There  were  approximately  6,924  holders  of record of the  Company's
common stock as of March 25,  1999,  excluding  those shares held by  depository
companies for certain beneficial owners.

         The Company has never paid cash dividends on its common stock (although
certain of the  companies  acquired  by the  Company in  poolings-  of-interests
transactions  had  paid  dividends  prior  to such  acquisitions)  and  does not
anticipate the payment of cash dividends in the foreseeable  future. The Company
currently  anticipates  that any future earnings will be retained to finance the
Company's operations.

RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

         All unregistered sales of equity securities by the Company in 1998 have
been previously reported on Form 10-Q or Form 8-K, as applicable.



                                       23






ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

         Set forth below is a summary of selected  consolidated  financial  data
for the  Company for the years  indicated.  All  amounts  have been  restated to
reflect the effects of the 1994 acquisition of ReLife, Inc. ("ReLife"), the 1995
acquisitions of Surgical Health Corporation  ("SHC") and Sutter Surgery Centers,
Inc. ("SSCI"),  the 1996 SCA and Advantage Health acquisitions,  the 1997 Health
Images acquisition and the 1998 NSC acquisition, each of which was accounted for
as a pooling of interests.



                                                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                                 
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                1994             1995               1996               1997                1998    
                                            -------------   -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------
                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

INCOME STATEMENT DATA:

                                                                                                                 
  Revenues                                  $   1,769,095   $   2,173,012       $  2,648,188       $   3,123,176      $   4,006,074

  Operating unit expenses                       1,237,750       1,478,208          1,718,108           1,952,189          2,491,914
  Corporate general and administrative expenses    69,718          67,789             82,953              87,512            112,800
  Provision for doubtful accounts                  36,807          43,471             61,311              74,743            112,202
  Depreciation and amortization                   128,721         164,482            212,967             257,136            344,591
  Merger and acquisition related expenses (1)       6,520          19,553             41,515              15,875             25,630
  Impairment and restructuring charges (2)         10,500          53,549             37,390                 ---            483,455
  Loss on abandonment of computer project           4,500             ---                ---                 ---                ---
  Loss on disposal of surgery centers              13,197             ---                ---                 ---                ---
  Loss on sale of assets (2)                          ---             ---                ---                 ---             31,232
  Interest expense                                 79,081         109,656            101,367             112,529            148,163
  Interest income                                  (6,838)         (8,287)            (6,749)             (6,004)           (11,286)
  Gain on sale of MCA Stock                        (7,727)            ---                ---                 ---                ---
                                            --------------  -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------
                                                1,572,229       1,928,421          2,248,862           2,493,980          3,738,701
                                            -------------   -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------

  Income from continuing operations
      before income taxes, minority interests
      and extraordinary item                      196,866         244,591            399,326             629,196            267,373
  Provision for income taxes                       69,578          88,142            148,545             213,668            143,347
                                            -------------   -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------
                                                  127,288         156,449            250,781             415,528            124,026
  Minority interests                               32,692          45,135             54,003              72,469             77,468
                                            -------------   -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------

  Income from continuing operations
      before extraordinary item                    94,596         111,314            196,778             343,059             46,558
  Income from discontinued operations              (6,528)         (1,162)               ---                 ---                ---
  Extraordinary item                                  ---          (9,056)               ---                 ---                ---
                                            -------------   --------------      ------------       -------------      -------------
      Net income                            $      88,068   $     101,096       $    196,778       $     343,059      $      46,558
                                            =============   =============       ============       =============      =============

  Weighted average common shares
      outstanding (3)                             280,506         298,462            336,603             366,768            421,462
                                            =============   =============       ============       =============      =============


  Net income per common share: (3)
      Continuing operations                 $        0.34   $        0.37       $       0.58       $        0.94      $        0.11
      Discontinued operations                       (0.02)            ---                ---                 ---                ---
      Extraordinary item                              ---           (0.03)               ---                 ---                ---
                                            -------------   --------------      ------------       -------------      -------------
                                            $        0.32   $        0.34       $       0.58       $        0.94      $        0.11
                                            =============   =============       ============       =============      =============

  Weighted average common shares
      outstanding-- assuming dilution(3)(4)       307,784         329,000            365,715             386,211            432,275
                                            =============   =============       ==============      =============      =============

  Net income per common share --
      assuming dilution: (3)(4)
      Continuing operations                 $        0.32   $        0.35       $       0.55       $        0.89      $        0.11
      Discontinued operations                       (0.02)            ---                ---                 ---                ---
      Extraordinary item                              ---           (0.03)               ---                 ---                ---
                                            -------------   --------------      ------------       -------------      -------------

                                            $        0.30   $        0.32       $       0.55       $        0.89      $        0.11
                                            =============   =============       ============       =============      =============







                                       24








                                                                              DECEMBER 31,                                       
                                       ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           1994                1995               1996               1997                1998    
                                       -------------      -------------       ------------       -------------      -------------
BALANCE SHEET DATA:                                                          (In thousands)

                                                                                                               
  Cash and marketable securities       $     138,518      $     182,636       $    205,166       $     185,018      $     142,513
  Working capital                            315,070            428,746            624,497             612,917            945,927
  Total assets                             2,412,874          3,190,095          3,671,958           5,566,324          6,773,008
  Long-term debt (5)                       1,206,846          1,477,092          1,570,597           1,614,961          2,830,926
  Stockholders' equity                       843,884          1,317,878          1,686,770           3,290,623          3,423,004

- - - --------------
(1)   Expenses  related to the ReLife  acquisition  and SHC's Heritage  Surgical
      acquisition in 1994, the SHC, SSCI and NovaCare  Rehabilitation  Hospitals
      acquisitions  in  1995,  the SCA,  Advantage  Health,  PSCM and  ReadiCare
      acquisitions  in 1996,  the Health Images  acquisition in 1997 and the NSC
      acquisition in 1998.

(2)   See "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements".

(3)   Adjusted to reflect a  two-for-one  stock split  effected in the form of a
      100% stock  dividend paid on April 17, 1995 and a two-for-one  stock split
      effected in the form of a 100% stock  dividend paid on March 17, 1997. 


(4)   Diluted  earnings per share in 1994,  1995,  1996 and 1997 reflect  shares
      reserved for issuance  upon  conversion  of the  Company's 5%  Convertible
      Subordinated  Debentures due 2001.  Substantially  all of such  Debentures
      were converted into shares of the Company's Common Stock in 1997.

(5)   Includes current portion of long-term debt.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S  DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
        OF OPERATIONS. 

GENERAL

     The following  discussion is intended to facilitate the  understanding  and
assessment of significant changes and trends related to the consolidated results
of operations and financial condition of the Company,  including certain factors
related to recent  acquisitions  by the Company,  the timing and nature of which
have significantly  affected the Company's  consolidated  results of operations.
This  discussion and analysis  should be read in conjunction  with the Company's
consolidated  financial  statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

     The Company completed the following major  acquisitions over the last three
years (common share amounts have been adjusted to reflect a stock split effected
in the form of a 100% stock dividend paid on March 17, 1997):

o    On January 17, 1996, the Company acquired  Surgical Care  Affiliates,  Inc.
(the "SCA  Acquisition").  A total of 91,856,678  shares of the Company's Common
Stock were  issued in the  transaction,  representing  a value of  approximately
$1,400,000,000  at the time of the  acquisition.  At that time,  SCA  operated a
network of 67 freestanding surgery centers in 24 states.

o    On March 14, 1996, the Company acquired  Advantage Health  Corporation (the
"Advantage Health  Acquisition").  A total of 18,203,978 shares of the Company's
Common  Stock  were  issued  in  the   transaction,   representing  a  value  of
approximately  $315,000,000  at the  time  of the  acquisition.  At  that  time,
Advantage  Health  operated a network of 136 sites of  service,  including  four
freestanding  rehabilitation hospitals, one freestanding multi-use hospital, one
nursing home,  68 outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  14 inpatient  managed
rehabilitation  units, 24 rehabilitation  services management  contracts and six
managed subacute  rehabilitation units, primarily located in the northern United
States.

o    On  August  20,  1996,  the  Company  acquired   Professional  Sports  Care
Management,  Inc. (the "PSCM  Acquisition").  A total of 3,622,888 shares of the
Company's Common Stock were issued in the  transaction,  representing a value of
approximately  $59,000,000 at the time of the  acquisition.  At that time,  PSCM
operated a network of 36 outpatient rehabilitation centers in three states.

o    On December 2, 1996, the Company acquired  ReadiCare,  Inc. (the "ReadiCare
Acquisition").  A total of 4,007,954  shares of the Company's  Common Stock were
issued in the transaction,  representing a value of approximately $76,000,000 at
the time of the acquisition.  At that time,  ReadiCare  operated a network of 37
occupational medicine and rehabilitation centers in two states.

o    On March 3, 1997, the Company  acquired  Health  Images,  Inc. (the "Health
Images Acquisition"). A total of 10,343,470 shares of the Company's Common Stock
were  issued  in  the   transaction,   representing  a  value  of  approximately
$208,162,000  at the  time of the  acquisition.  At  that  time,  Health  Images
operated 49 freestanding  diagnostic  centers in 13 states and six in the United
Kingdom.

o    On September 30, 1997, the Company  acquired ASC Network  Corporation  (the
"ASC Acquisition").  The Company paid approximately $130,827,000 in cash for all
of the issued and  outstanding  capital  stock of ASC and assumed  approximately
$61,000,000 in debt. At that time, ASC operated 29 outpatient surgery centers in
eight  states.  


o    On October 23, 1997, the Company acquired National Imaging Affiliates, Inc.
(the "NIA Acquisition"). A total of 984,189 shares of the Company's Common Stock
were  issued  in  the   transaction,   representing  a  value  of  approximately
$20,706,000  at the time of the  acquisition.  At that time,  NIA operated eight
diagnostic imaging centers in six states. 


                                       25




o    On  October  29,  1997,  the  Company   acquired   Horizon/CMS   Healthcare
Corporation (the "Horizon/CMS Acquisition"). A total of 45,261,000 shares of the
Company's Common Stock were issued in the  transaction,  representing a value of
approximately  $975,824,000  at the  time of the  acquisition,  and the  Company
assumed approximately  $740,000,000 in debt. At that time,  Horizon/CMS operated
30  inpatient   rehabilitation   facilities  and  approximately  275  outpatient
rehabilitation  centers,  among other strategic  businesses,  as well as certain
long-term care businesses.  On December 31, 1997, the Company sold the long-term
care  assets  of  Horizon/CMS,  including  139  long-term  care  facilities,  12
specialty  hospitals,   35  institutional  pharmacy  locations  and  over  1,000
rehabilitation  therapy contracts with long-term care facilities,  to Integrated
Health Services,  Inc. ("IHS").  IHS paid  approximately  $1,130,000,000 in cash
(net of certain  adjustments) and assumed  approximately  $94,000,000 in debt in
the transaction.

o    On July 1, 1998, the Company acquired Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation's
interest in (or entered into interim management arrangements with respect to) 34
outpatient   surgery   centers   located   in  13  states   (the   "Columbia/HCA
Acquisition"). The cash purchase price was approximately $550,402,000.

o    On July 22, 1998, the Company acquired National Surgery Centers,  Inc. (the
"NSC  Acquisition").  A total of 20,426,261 shares of the Company's Common Stock
were  issued  in  connection  with  the  transaction,  representing  a value  of
approximately  $574,489,000.  At that time,  NSC operated 40 outpatient  surgery
centers in 14 states.

     Each  of  the  ASC  Acquisition,   the  Horizon/CMS  Acquisition,  the  NIA
Acquisition  and the  Columbia/HCA  Acquisition  was  accounted  for  under  the
purchase  method of accounting  and,  accordingly,  the acquired  operations are
included  in  the  Company's   consolidated   financial  statements  from  their
respective  dates of  acquisition.  Each of the SCA  Acquisition,  the Advantage
Health  Acquisition,  the Health Images  Acquisition and the NSC Acquisition was
accounted  for as a pooling of  interests  and,  with the  exception of data set
forth relating to revenues derived from Medicare and Medicaid, all amounts shown
in the following  discussion  have been  restated to reflect such  acquisitions.
SCA,  Advantage  Health,  Health  Images and NSC did not  separately  track such
revenues. The PSCM Acquisition and the ReadiCare Acquisition were also accounted
for as poolings of  interests.  However,  due to the  immateriality  of PSCM and
ReadiCare,  the Company's  historical financial statements for all periods prior
to the  quarters  in which  the  respective  mergers  took  place  have not been
restated.  Instead,  stockholders'  equity  has been  increased  during  1996 to
reflect the effects of the PSCM Acquisition and the ReadiCare  Acquisition.  The
results of operations  of PSCM and  ReadiCare  are included in the  accompanying
consolidated  financial statements and the following discussion from the date of
acquisition forward (see Note 2 of "Notes to Consolidated  Financial Statements"
for further discussion).

     The Company determines the amortization period of the cost in excess of net
asset value of  purchased  facilities  based on an  evaluation  of the facts and
circumstances of each individual purchase  transaction.  The evaluation includes
an analysis of historic and projected  financial  performance,  an evaluation of
the  estimated  useful life of the  buildings  and fixed  assets  acquired,  the
indefinite  useful  life of  certificates  of need and  licenses  acquired,  the
competition  within local markets,  lease terms where applicable,  and the legal
terms  of  partnerships  where  applicable.  The  Company  utilizes  independent
appraisers and relies on its own management  expertise in evaluating each of the
factors noted above. In connection with recent  developments,  including changes
in the  reimbursement  environment  in the healthcare  industry,  the closing or
consolidation  of certain of its locations,  and the  integration of some of its
purchased facilities in connection with implementation of its Integrated Service
Model  strategy,  the  Company  is  undertaking  a  comprehensive  review of its
amortization policies with respect to the excess of cost over net asset value of
purchased facilities. This review may result in future changes in certain of the
Company's accounting estimates following completion of such review. With respect
to the carrying  value of the excess of cost over net asset value of  individual
purchased  facilities and other intangible  assets,  the Company determines on a
quarterly basis whether an impairment event has occurred by considering  factors
such as the market value of the asset,  a  significant  adverse  change in legal
factors or in the business climate,  adverse action by regulators,  a history of
operating  losses or cash flow losses,  or a  projection  of  continuing  losses
associated with an operating entity.  The carrying value of excess cost over net
asset  value  of  purchased  facilities  and  



                                       26




other intangible assets will be evaluated if the facts and circumstances suggest
that it has been impaired.  If this  evaluation  indicates that the value of the
asset will not be  recoverable,  as determined  based on the  undiscounted  cash
flows  of the  entity  acquired  over the  remaining  amortization  period,  the
Company's carrying value of the asset will be reduced by the estimated shortfall
of cash flows to the estimated fair market value.

     In 1998,  the Company  adopted the  provisions  of  Statement  of Financial
Accounting  Standards  ("SFAS")  No.  131,  "Disclosures  about  Segments  of an
Enterprise and Related  Information".  SFAS 131 requires an enterprise to report
operating segments based upon the way its operations are managed.  This approach
defines  operating  segments  along  the  lines  used by  management  to  assess
performance and make operating and resource allocation  decisions.  Based on the
Company's  management  and reporting  structure,  segment  information  has been
presented for inpatient and other clinical services and outpatient services.

     The inpatient and other clinical  services segments includes the operations
of its inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities and medical centers, as well as the
operations of certain physician  practices and other clinical services which are
managerially  aligned with the  Company's  inpatient  services.  The Company has
aggregated  the financial  results of its outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities
(including   occupational  health  centers),   outpatient  surgery  centers  and
outpatient diagnostic centers into the outpatient services segment.  These three
types of  facilities  have  common  economic  characteristics,  provide  similar
services,  serve a  similar  class of  customers,  cross-utilize  administrative
services  and operate in a similar  regulatory  environment.  In  addition,  the
Company's  Integrated  Service  Model  strategy  combines  these  services  in a
seamless environment for the delivery of patient care on an episodic basis.

     See Note 14 of "Notes to Consolidated  Financial  Statements" for financial
data for each of the Company's operating segments.

     The  Company's  revenues  include net patient  service  revenues  and other
operating  revenues.  Net patient service revenues are reported at estimated net
realizable  amounts  from  patients,  insurance  companies,  third-party  payors
(primarily  Medicare and  Medicaid) and others for services  rendered.  Revenues
from third-party  payors also include  estimated  retroactive  adjustments under
reimbursement  agreements  which are subject to final review and  settlement  by
appropriate authorities.  Management determines allowances for doubtful accounts
and  contractual  adjustments  based on historical  experience  and the terms of
payor contracts. Net accounts receivable include only those amounts estimated by
management to be collectible.

     Substantially  all of the  Company's  revenues are derived from private and
governmental  third-party payors. The Company's  reimbursement from governmental
third-party payors is based upon cost reports and other reimbursement mechanisms
which require the  application  and  interpretation  of complex  regulations and
policies,  and such  reimbursement  is subject  to various  levels of review and
adjustment  by fiscal  intermediaries  and  others,  which may  affect the final
determination of reimbursement. In addition, there are increasing pressures from
many payor sources to control  healthcare costs and to reduce or limit increases
in  reimbursement  rates for medical  services.  There can be no assurance  that
payments under governmental and third-party payor programs will remain at levels
comparable  to present  levels.  In addition,  there have been,  and the Company
expects that there will continue to be, a number of proposals to limit  Medicare
reimbursement for certain  services.  The Company cannot now predict whether any
of these proposals will be adopted or, if adopted and  implemented,  what effect
such proposals would have on the Company.  Changes in reimbursement  policies or
rates by  private or  governmental  payors  could have an adverse  effect on the
future results of operations of the Company.

     The Company, in many cases, operates more than one site within a market. In
such markets,  there is customarily an outpatient  center or inpatient  facility
with associated  satellite outpatient  locations.  For purposes of the following
discussion and analysis,  same store operations are measured on locations within
markets in which similar operations existed at the end of the period and include
the operations of additional  locations opened within the same market. New store
operations are measured on locations  




                                       27




within new markets.  The Company may,  from time to time,  close or  consolidate
similar  locations in multi-site  markets to obtain  efficiencies and respond to
changes in demand.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY

Twelve-Month Periods Ended December 31, 1996 and 1997

     The Company's  operations  generated revenues of $3,123,176,000 in 1997, an
increase of  $474,988,000,  or 17.9%,  as compared to 1996 revenues.  Same store
revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 1997 were  $2,921,684,000,  an
increase of $273,496,000,  or 10.3%, as compared to the same period in 1996. New
store revenues for 1997 were $201,492,000.  New store revenues reflect primarily
the  addition of  facilities  through the  Horizon/CMS  Acquisition  and the ASC
Acquisition and the acquisition of outpatient  rehabilitation  operations in new
markets  through  internal  development  (see Note 9 of  "Notes to  Consolidated
Financial  Statements").  The increase in revenues is primarily  attributable to
the  addition of these  operations  and  increases in patient  volume.  Revenues
generated  from patients under the Medicare and Medicaid  programs  respectively
accounted for 36.9% and 2.3% of total  revenues for 1997,  compared to 37.8% and
2.9% of total  revenues for 1996.  Revenues  from any other  single  third-party
payor were not significant in relation to the Company's  total revenues.  During
1997,  same  store  inpatient  days,  outpatient  visits,   surgical  cases  and
diagnostic cases increased 10.8%, 20.6%, 8.8% and 12.3%,  respectively.  Revenue
per inpatient day, outpatient visit,  surgical case and diagnostic case for same
store  operations  increased  (decreased)  by 1.6%,  4.6%,  (0.9)%  and (0.3) %,
respectively.

     Operating expenses,  at the operating unit level, were  $1,952,189,000,  or
62.5% of  revenues,  for 1997,  compared  to 64.9% of  revenues  for  1996.  The
decrease  in  operating  expenses  as a  percentage  of  revenues  is  primarily
attributable  to the increase in same store revenues noted above.  In same store
operations,  the  incremental  costs  associated  with  increased  revenues  are
significantly  lower as a percentage  of those  increased  revenues.  Same store
operating expenses for 1997 were  $1,804,674,000,  or 61.8% of related revenues.
New store operating  expenses were  $147,515,000,  or 73.2% of related revenues.
New store  revenues  and  operating  expenses  for 1997  include  two  months of
operations of the  facilities  acquired  from  Horizon/CMS,  in which  aggregate
operating expenses were significantly higher as a percentage of related revenues
than in the Company's other  facilities.  Corporate  general and  administrative
expenses  increased  from  $82,953,000  in 1996 to  $87,512,000  in  1997.  As a
percentage of revenues,  corporate general and administrative expenses decreased
from 3.1% in 1996 to 2.8% in 1997. Total operating expenses were $2,039,701,000,
or  65.3%  of  revenues,  for  1997,  compared  to  $1,801,061,000,  or 68.0% of
revenues, for 1996. The provision for doubtful accounts was $74,743,000, or 2.4%
of revenues, for 1997, compared to $61,311,000, or 2.3% of revenues, for 1996.

     Depreciation and amortization  expense was $257,136,000 for 1997,  compared
to  $212,967,000  for  1996.  The  increase  resulted  from  the  investment  in
additional assets by the Company.  Interest expense increased to $112,529,000 in
1997,  compared to  $101,367,000  for 1996,  primarily  because of the increased
amount outstanding under the Company's revolving credit facility (see "Liquidity
and Capital Resources").  For 1997, interest income was $6,004,000,  compared to
$6,749,000 for 1996. The decrease in interest income  resulted  primarily from a
decrease in the average amount outstanding in interest-bearing investments.

     Merger expenses in 1997 of $15,875,000  represent costs incurred or accrued
in  connection  with  completing  the Health  Images  Acquisition.  For  further
discussion, see Note 2 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements".

     Income   before   minority   interests   and  income  taxes  for  1997  was
$629,196,000,  compared to $399,326,000  for 1996.  Minority  interests  reduced
income before income taxes by $72,469,000 in 1997,  compared to $54,003,000  for
1996.  The  provision  for income taxes for 1997 was  $213,668,000,  compared to
$148,545,000  for 1996,  resulting in effective  tax rates of 38.4% for 1997 and
43.0% for 




                                       28




1996. Net income for 1997 was $343,059,000.

Twelve-Month Periods Ended December 31, 1997 and 1998

     The Company's  operations  generated revenues of $4,006,074,000 in 1998, an
increase of  $882,898,000,  or 28.3%,  as compared to 1997 revenues.  Same store
revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 1998 were  $3,755,413,000,  an
increase of $632,237,000,  or 20.2%, as compared to the same period in 1997. New
store revenues for 1998 were $250,661,000. Same store revenues reflect the first
full  year of  operations  of the  Horizon/CMS  facilities  and the ASC  Network
facilities  acquired in October 1997. New store revenues  reflect  primarily the
addition of  facilities  from the  Columbia/HCA  Acquisition  and the  Company's
single facility  acquisitions through internal development (see Note 9 of "Notes
to Consolidated  Financial  Statements").  The increase in revenues is primarily
attributable  to the  addition  of these  operations  and  increases  in patient
volume.  Revenues  generated  from  patients  under the  Medicare  and  Medicaid
programs  respectively  accounted for 35.9% and 2.7% of total revenues for 1998,
compared to 36.9% and 2.3% of total  revenues for 1997.  Revenues from any other
single third-party payor were not significant in relation to the Company's total
revenues.  During 1998, same store inpatient days,  outpatient visits,  surgical
cases  and  diagnostic   cases  increased   32.5%,   27.7%,   20.8%  and  18.0%,
respectively.  Revenue per inpatient day,  outpatient  visit,  surgical case and
diagnostic case for same store operations  decreased by (5.8)%,  (0.2)%,  (2.8)%
and (0.3)%, respectively.

     Operating expenses,  at the operating unit level, were  $2,491,914,000,  or
62.2% of revenues, for 1998, compared to 62.5% of revenues for 1997. Included in
operating expenses, at the operating unit level, for the year ended December 31,
1998, is a non-recurring  expense item of approximately  $27,768,000  related to
the Company's plan to dispose of or otherwise  discontinue  substantially all of
its home health  operations,  as described  below.  Excluding the  non-recurring
expense, operating expenses at the operating unit level were $2,464,146,000,  or
61.5% of  revenues  for the year  ended  December  31,  1998.  The  decrease  in
operating expenses as a percentage of revenues is primarily  attributable to the
increase in same store  revenues  noted  above.  In same store  operations,  the
incremental costs associated with increased revenues are significantly  lower as
a percentage of those  increased  revenues.  Same store  operating  expenses for
1998, excluding the non-recurring  expense item noted above, were $2,296,802,000
or 61.2% of related revenues. New store operating expenses were $167,344,000, or
66.8%  of  related  revenues.  Corporate  general  and  administrative  expenses
increased from  $87,512,000 in 1997 to  $112,800,000 in 1998. As a percentage of
revenues,  corporate  general and  administrative  expenses remained constant at
2.8% in 1997 and 1998. Total operating expenses were $2,604,714,000, or 65.0% of
revenues, for 1998, compared to $2,039,701,000,  or 65.3% of revenues, for 1997.
The provision for doubtful accounts was $112,202,000,  or 2.8% of revenues,  for
1998,  compared to $74,743,000,  or 2.4% of revenues,  for 1997. Included in the
provision  for  doubtful  accounts for the year ended  December  31, 1998,  is a
non-recurring expense item of approximately $19,228,000 related to the Company's
plan to dispose of or otherwise discontinue substantially all of its home health
operations,  as described below. Excluding the non-recurring item, the provision
for doubtful accounts was $92,974,000 or 2.3% of revenues for 1998.

     Depreciation and amortization  expense was $344,591,000 for 1998,  compared
to  $257,136,000  for  1997.  The  increase  resulted  from  the  investment  in
additional assets by the Company.  Interest expense increased to $148,163,000 in
1998,  compared to  $112,529,000  for 1997,  primarily  because of the increased
amount  outstanding  under the Company's  credit  facilities (see "Liquidity and
Capital  Resources").  For 1998,  interest income was  $11,286,000,  compared to
$6,004,000 for 1997. The increase in interest income resulted  primarily from an
increase in the average amount outstanding in interest-bearing investments.

     Merger expenses in 1998 of $25,630,000  represent costs incurred or accrued
in connection with completing the NSC Acquisition.  For further discussion,  see
Note 2 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements".

     During the third quarter of 1998, the Company  adopted a plan to dispose of
or otherwise  discontinue  substantially all of its home health operations.  The
decision to adopt the plan was prompted in large part 





                                       29




by the negative impact of the 1997 Balanced Budget Act (the "BBA"), which placed
reimbursement  limits on home health  businesses.  The limits were  announced in
March 1998 and the Company  thereafter  began to see the adverse  affect on home
health  margins.  The negative trends that occurred as a result in the reduction
in reimbursement  brought about by the BBA caused the Company to re-evaluate its
view of the home  health  product  line.  The plan was  approved by the Board of
Directors on September  16, 1998 and all home health  operations  covered by the
plan were closed by December 31, 1998.

     The Company recorded impairment and restructuring  charges of approximately
$72,000,000 related to the home health plan. In addition, the Company determined
that approximately $27,768,000 in notes receivable and approximately $19,228,000
in accounts  receivable  would not be  collectible as a result of the closing of
its home health operations.  These non-recurring amounts have been recognized in
operating unit expenses and the provision for doubtful  accounts,  respectively.
The  total  non-recurring  charges  and  expenses  included  in the  results  of
operations  for the year ended December 31, 1998 related to the home health plan
was approximately $118,996,000.

     During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company adopted a plan to dispose of
or otherwise substantially discontinue the operations of certain facilities that
did not fit with the Company's  Integrated  Service Model  strategy (see Item 1,
"Business - Company  Strategy"),  underperforming  facilities and facilities not
located in target markets.  The Board of Directors approved the plan on December
10, 1998 and as of March 12, 1999,  73% of the  identified  facilities  had been
closed.   The  Company  recorded   impairment  and   restructuring   charges  of
approximately $404,000,000 related to the fourth quarter restructuring plan.

     In addition,  the Company  recorded an impairment  charge of  approximately
$8,000,000  related to a  rehabilitation  hospital it had closed and  recorded a
$31,232,000 loss on the sale of its physical therapy staffing business.

     Total  non-recurring  charges  and  expenses  included  in the  results  of
operations for the year ended December 31, 1998 were approximately $587,000,000.
For  further  discussion,  see  Notes  2, 9 and  13 of  "Notes  to  Consolidated
Financial Statements".

     Income   before   minority   interests   and  income  taxes  for  1998  was
$267,373,000,  compared to $629,196,000  for 1997.  Minority  interests  reduced
income before income taxes by $77,468,000 in 1998,  compared to $72,469,000  for
1997.  The  provision  for income taxes for 1998 was  $143,347,000,  compared to
$213,668,000  for  1997.  Excluding  the  tax  effects  of  the  impairment  and
restructuring  charges,  the merger costs,  and the loss on sale of assets,  the
effective tax rate for 1998 was 39.0%,  compared to 38.4% for 1997 ( see Note 10
of "Notes to Consolidated  Financial  Statements" for further  discussion).  Net
income for 1998 was $46,558,000.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     At December  31,  1998,  the Company had working  capital of  $945,927,000,
including cash and marketable  securities of  $142,513,000.  Working  capital at
December 31, 1997 was $612,917,000,  including cash and marketable securities of
$185,018,000.  For 1998, cash provided by operations was $636,132,000,  compared
to $446,937,000 for 1997. For 1998,  investing  activities used  $1,781,459,000,
compared to providing  $346,778,000 for 1997. The change is primarily due to the
proceeds from sale of non-strategic assets in 1997. Additions to property, plant
and equipment and  acquisitions  accounted for  $714,212,000  and  $729,440,000,
respectively,  during  1998.  Those  same  investing  activities  accounted  for
$349,861,000  and  $309,548,000,  respectively,  in 1997.  Financing  activities
provided   $1,121,162,000   and  used   $790,515,000   during   1998  and  1997,
respectively.  The change is primarily  due to the Company's use of the proceeds
from the sale of non-strategic  assets to pay down  outstanding  indebtedness in
1997. Net borrowing proceeds  (reductions) for 1998 and 1997 were $1,177,311,000
and $(774,303,000), respectively.


                                       30




     Net accounts receivable were $897,901,000 at December 31, 1998, compared to
$765,335,000 at December 31, 1997. The number of days of average annual revenues
in  ending  receivables  was 81.8 at  December  31,  1998,  compared  to 79.9 at
December 31, 1997. See Note 1 of "Notes to  Consolidated  Financial  Statements"
for concentration of net accounts receivable from patients,  third-party payors,
insurance companies and others at December 31, 1998 and 1997.

     The  Company  has  a   $1,750,000,000   revolving   credit   facility  with
NationsBank,  N.A.  ("NationsBank")  and other  participating  banks  (the "1998
Credit Agreement"). The 1998 Credit Agreement replaced a previous $1,250,000,000
revolving credit agreement, also with NationsBank.  In conjunction with the 1998
Credit  Agreement,  the Company also canceled its  $350,000,000  364-day interim
revolving  credit  facility  with  NationsBank.  Interest  on  the  1998  Credit
Agreement is paid based on LIBOR plus a  predetermined  margin,  a base rate, or
competitively bid rates from the participating banks. The Company is required to
pay a fee based on the unused portion of the revolving  credit facility  ranging
from 0.09% to 0.25%,  depending on certain defined ratios.  The principal amount
is payable in full on June 22, 2003. The Company has provided a negative  pledge
on all assets under the 1998 Credit  Agreement.  The effective  interest rate on
the average outstanding balance under the 1998 Credit Agreement was 6.1% for the
twelve  months ended  December 31, 1998,  compared to the average  prime rate of
8.4%  during the same  period.  At  December  31,  1998,  the  Company had drawn
$1,325,000,000 under the 1998 Credit Agreement. For further discussion, see Note
7 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements".

     The Company also has a Short Term Credit  Agreement  with  NationsBank  (as
amended, the "Short Term Credit Agreement"),  providing for a $500,000,000 short
term revolving credit facility. The terms of the Short Term Credit Agreement are
substantially  consistent with those of the 1998 Credit  Agreement.  Interest on
the Short Term  Credit  Agreement  is paid  based on LIBOR plus a  predetermined
margin or a base  rate.  The  Company  is  required  to pay a fee on the  unused
portion of the credit facility ranging from 0.09% to 0.25%, depending on certain
defined  ratios.  The principal  amount is payable in full on February 15, 2000,
with an earlier repayment required in the event that the Company consummates any
public offering or private  placement of debt securities.  At December 31, 1998,
the  Company  had not  drawn  down any  amounts  under  the  Short  Term  Credit
Agreement.

     On March 20, 1998, the Company  issued  $500,000,000  in 3.25%  Convertible
Subordinated  Debentures  due 2003 (the  "3.25%  Convertible  Debentures")  in a
private  placement.  An  additional  $67,750,000  principal  amount of the 3.25%
Convertible  Debentures  was  issued  on March 31,  1998 to cover  underwriters'
overallotments.  Interest  is  payable  on April 1 and  October 1 of each  year,
commencing on October 1, 1998. The Convertible  Debentures are convertible  into
Common Stock of the Company at the option of the holder at a conversion price of
$36.625 per share,  subject to the  adjustment  upon the  occurrence  of certain
events.  The net proceeds from the issuance of the  Convertible  Debentures were
used by the  Company  to pay  down  indebtedness  outstanding  under  its  other
existing credit facilities.

     On June 22, 1998,  the Company issued  $250,000,000  in 6.875% Senior Notes
due 2005 and  $250,000,000  in 7.0%  Senior  Notes due 2008  (collectively,  the
"Senior  Notes").  Interest is payable on June 15 and  December 15 of each year,
commencing on December 15, 1998. The Senior Notes are unsecured,  unsubordinated
obligations  of the Company.  The net  proceeds  from the issuance of the Senior
Notes were used by the Company to pay down  indebtedness  outstanding  under its
existing credit facilities.

     On February  8, 1999,  the Company  announced  a plan to  repurchase  up to
70,000,000  shares of its  common  stock  over the next 36 months  through  open
market purchases, block trades or privately negotiated transactions.

     The Company  intends to pursue the acquisition or development of additional
healthcare operations, including outpatient rehabilitation facilities, inpatient
rehabilitation  facilities,  ambulatory surgery centers,  outpatient  diagnostic
centers and companies engaged in the provision of other complementary  services,
and to expand  certain of its existing  facilities.  While it is not possible to
estimate  precisely the amounts which will actually be expended in the foregoing
areas, the Company  anticipates that over the next twelve months,  it will spend
approximately  $100,000,000  to $200,000,000 on maintenance and expansion of its




                                       31




existing facilities and approximately $300,000,000 to $500,000,000 to repurchase
outstanding shares of its common stock,  depending on market conditions,  and on
continued  development of the Integrated Service Model. See Item 1, "Business --
Company Strategy".

     Although the Company is continually considering and evaluating acquisitions
and  opportunities  for future  growth,  the Company  has not  entered  into any
agreements with respect to material future  acquisitions.  The Company  believes
that existing cash,  cash flow from  operations  and  borrowings  under existing
credit  facilities  will be sufficient to satisfy the Company's  estimated  cash
requirements  for the next twelve  months,  and for the  reasonably  foreseeable
future.

     Inflation in recent years has not had a significant effect on the Company's
business,  and is not  expected  to  adversely  affect the Company in the future
unless it increases significantly.

EXPOSURES TO MARKET RISK

     The Company is exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates.
Because of its favorable  borrowing  arrangements and current market conditions,
the Company currently does not use derivatives,  such as swaps or caps, to alter
the interest  characteristics of its debt instruments and investment securities.
The impact on earnings and value of market risk-sensitive  financial instruments
(principally  marketable security  investments and long-term debt) is subject to
change as a result of  movements  in market  rates and prices.  The Company uses
sensitivity analysis models to evaluate these impacts.

     The  Company's  investment  in  marketable  securities  was  $3,686,000  at
December 31, 1998,  compared to $22,026,000 at December 31, 1997. The investment
represents  less than 1% of total  assets at December  31, 1998 and 1997.  These
securities are generally short-term, highly-liquid instruments and, accordingly,
their fair value  approximates  cost.  Earnings  on  investments  in  marketable
securities  are not  significant  to the Company's  results of  operations,  and
therefore  any changes in interest  rates would have a minimal  impact on future
pre-tax earnings.

     With respect to the Company's interest-bearing  liabilities,  approximately
$1,325,000,000  in  long-term  debt at December  31, 1998 is subject to variable
rates  of  interest,   while  the  remaining   balance  in  long-term   debt  of
$1,505,926,000  is  subject  to  fixed  rates  of  interest.  This  compares  to
$1,175,000,000  in  long-term  debt  subject to variable  rates of interest  and
$439,961,000  in  long-term  debt subject to fixed rates of interest at December
31, 1997 (see Note 7 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further
description).  The fair value of the Company's total  long-term  debt,  based on
discounted cash flow analyses,  approximates  its carrying value at December 31,
1997 and, except for the 3.25% Convertible Debentures, at December 31, 1998. The
fair  value  of the  3.25%  Convertible  Debentures  at  December  31,  1998 was
approximately  $483,000,000.  Based on a  hypothetical  1%  increase in interest
rates,  the potential  losses in future pre-tax  earnings would be approximately
$13,250,000. The impact of such a change on the carrying value of long-term debt
would not be significant. These amounts are determined considering the impact of
the  hypothetical  interest rates on the Company's  borrowing cost and long-term
debt  balances.  These  analyses do not  consider  the  effects,  if any, of the
potential  changes in the overall level of economic activity that could exist in
such an environment. Further, in the event of a change of significant magnitude,
management  would  expect to take  actions  intended  to  further  mitigate  its
exposure to such change.

     Foreign  operations,  and the related market risks  associated with foreign
currency, are currently insignificant to the Company's results of operations and
financial position.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIES AND YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE

     The Company is aware of the issues  associated with the programming code in
existing  computer systems as the year 2000 approaches.  Many existing  computer
programs use only two digits to identify a year in the date field.  The issue is
whether such code exists in the Company's  mission-critical  applications and if
that code will produce accurate information to date-sensitive calculations after
the turn of the century.


                                       32




     The Company is involved in an  extensive,  ongoing  program to identify and
correct problems  arising from the year 2000 issues.  The program is broken down
into the following categories:  (1) mission-critical computer applications which
are internally  maintained by the Company's information  technology  department;
(2) mission-critical  computer  applications which are maintained by third-party
vendors; (3) non-mission-critical applications, whether internally or externally
maintained;  (4)  hardware;  (5) embedded  applications  which  control  certain
medical  and other  equipment;  (6)  computer  applications  of its  significant
suppliers; and (7) computer applications of its significant payors.

     Mission-critical  computer applications are those which are integral to the
Company's  business  mission,  which have no reasonable  manual  alternative for
producing the same information and results,  and the failure of which to produce
accurate  information and results would have a significant adverse impact on the
Company.  Such  applications  include the Company's general business systems and
its patient billing systems. Most of the Company's clinical applications are not
considered   mission-critical,   because  reasonable  manual   alternatives  are
available to produce the same information and results for as long as necessary.

     The  Company's  review  of  its  internally   maintained   mission-critical
applications  revealed that such applications  contained very few date-sensitive
calculations.  The  revisions  to these  applications  have been  completed  and
tested.  Implementation  will be completed during the first quarter of 1999. The
budget for this project is approximately $150,000.

     The  Company's   general  business   applications  are  licensed  from  and
maintained  by the same  vendor.  All such  applications  are already  year 2000
compliant.  The coding  and  testing of all of the  Company's  other  externally
maintained mission-critical  applications for year 2000 compliance was completed
during 1998.  Installation of certain  applications is still in process and will
be completed by June 30, 1999. The total cost of such  installation is estimated
to be approximately $1,500,000.

     The Company has reviewed all of its  non-mission-critical  applications and
determined that some of these  applications are not year 2000 compliant and will
not be made to be compliant.  In such cases,  the Company has  developed  manual
alternatives to produce the information that such systems currently produce. The
incremental  cost  of the  manual  systems  is  not  currently  estimated  to be
material.  The Company plans to evaluate the effectiveness of the manual systems
before  any  decisions  are  made  on  the  replacement  of  the   non-compliant
applications.

     The Company has engaged an independent contractor to inventory and test all
of its  computer  hardware  for year 2000  compliance  at an  estimated  cost of
$800,000 to $1,000,000.  The contractor has completed site visits to each of the
Company's locations with over five processors. The Company has received the data
from the site visits and is currently  determining  an  appropriate  remediation
plan.  The  preliminary  estimate of the range of cost to complete a remediation
plan is  approximately  $25,000,000  to  $30,000,000.  The  contractor  has sent
diskettes  containing test programs to each of the Company's locations with five
or fewer  processors.  The data from those  locations will be available by April
30,  1999.  The cost of  remediation  for  those  facilities  with five or fewer
processors cannot be estimated until the data is complete.

     The Company has completed its review of embedded applications which control
certain medical and other equipment.  As expected,  the review revealed that the
nature  of the  Company's  business  is such  that any  failure  of  these  type
applications is not expected to have a material  adverse effect on its business.
In  particular,   the  Company  has  focused  on  reviewing  and  testing  those
applications the failure of which would be likely to cause a significant risk of
death or serious injury to patients under treatment in the Company's facilities,
and the Company  believes  that,  because of the types of services it  primarily
provides and the nature of its patient population, there is little likelihood of
such an event occurring because of the failure of an embedded application.


                                       33




     The Company has sent  inquiries to its  significant  suppliers of equipment
and medical  supplies  concerning the year 2000 compliance of their  significant
computer  applications.  Responses  have  been  received  from over 89% of those
suppliers, and no significant problems have been identified. Third requests have
been mailed to all non-respondents.

     The Company has also sent inquiries to its significant  third-party payors.
Responses have been received from payors  representing over 85% of the Company's
revenues.  Such responses  indicate that these payors' systems will be year 2000
compliant. Third requests have been mailed to non-respondents.  The Company will
continue to evaluate  year 2000 risks with respect to such payors as  additional
responses  are  received.   In  that   connection,   it  should  be  noted  that
substantially  all of the Company's  revenues are derived from  reimbursement by
governmental and private  third-party  payors, and that the Company is dependent
upon such payors' evaluation of their year 2000 compliance status to assess such
risks.  If such payors are incorrect in their  evaluation of their own year 2000
compliance status, this could result in delays or errors in reimbursement to the
Company by such payors, the effects of which could be material to the Company.

     Each of the  Company's  facilities  is  required,  by  Company  policy,  to
maintain a disaster  recovery  plan.  The  management  of each facility has been
instructed to review and update such facility's  specific disaster recovery plan
in light of  potential  local area  problems  that may occur as a result of year
2000 computer failures. Such potential problems include, but are not limited to,
interruption   and/or  loss  of  electrical  power  and  water,   breakdowns  in
telecommunications  systems  and the  inability  to  transport  supplies  and/or
personnel.  The Company's  primary exposure resides in its inpatient  locations,
where patients will be in residence during the time that such potential problems
may occur.  Execution of each facility's  disaster recovery plan should mitigate
this exposure for a period of ten to fourteen days. If such  potential  problems
continue  to occur  after that  period of time,  the  Company  will have to take
actions that are not currently  contemplated  in the various  disaster  recovery
plans.  It is not  currently  possible  to  estimate  the  cost or scope of such
actions.

     Guidance from the Securities and Exchange  Commission  requires the Company
to describe its "reasonably  likely worst case scenario" in connection with year
2000 issues.  As discussed  above,  while there is always the potential  risk of
serious  injury or death  resulting from a failure of embedded  applications  in
medical and other  equipment  used by the Company,  the Company does not believe
that such events are reasonably  likely to occur.  The Company believes that the
most  reasonably  likely  worst  case to  which it  would  be  exposed  is that,
notwithstanding the Company's attempts to obtain year 2000 compliance  assurance
from  third-party  payors,  there is a material  failure in such payors' systems
which  prevents or  substantially  delays  reimbursement  to the Company for its
services. In such event, the Company would be forced to rely on cash on hand and
available  borrowing  capacity to the extent of any shortfall in  reimbursement,
and could be forced to incur  additional costs for personnel and other resources
necessary  to resolve any  payment  issues.  It is not  possible at this time to
predict  the  nature  or  amount  of  such  costs  or  the  materiality  of  any
reimbursement  issues  that may  arise as a result  of the  failure  of  payors'
payment systems, the effect of which could be substantial. The Company continues
to  endeavor  to  obtain  reliable  information  from  its  payors  as to  their
compliance  status,  and will attempt to adopt and revise its contingency  plans
for dealing with payment  issues if, as and when such issues become  susceptible
of prediction.

     Based on the information currently available, the Company believes that its
risk associated with problems  arising from year 2000 issues is not significant.
However,  because of the many uncertainties associated with year 2000 compliance
issues, and because the Company's assessment is necessarily based on information
from third-party vendors,  payors and suppliers,  there can be no assurance that
the Company's  assessment is correct or as to the  materiality  or effect of any
failure of such  assessment  to be correct.  The Company will  continue with its
assessment  process as  described  above and, to the extent that changes in such
assessment require it, will attempt to develop  alternatives or modifications to
its compliance plan described above.  There can,  however,  be no assurance that
such compliance  plan, as it may be changed,  augmented or modified from time to
time, will be successful.


                                       34




FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     Statements  contained  in this  Annual  Report on Form  10-K  which are not
historical  facts are  forward-looking  statements.  In  addition,  the Company,
through its senior management,  from time to time makes  forward-looking  public
statements  concerning its expected future  operations and performance and other
developments.   Such  forward-looking   statements  are  necessarily   estimates
reflecting the Company's best judgment based upon current information, involve a
number of risks and  uncertainties  and are made  pursuant to the "safe  harbor"
provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. There can be
no  assurance   that  other  factors  will  not  affect  the  accuracy  of  such
forward-looking  statements or that HEALTHSOUTH's actual results will not differ
materially  from the results  anticipated  in such  forward-looking  statements.
While is  impossible  to identify all such  factors,  factors  which could cause
actual results to differ materially from those estimated by the Company include,
but are not limited to, changes in the regulation of the healthcare  industry at
either  or  both  of  the  federal  and  state  levels,  changes  or  delays  in
reimbursement  for the Company's  services by  governmental  or private  payors,
competitive  pressures in the  healthcare  industry and the  Company's  response
thereto, the Company's ability to obtain and retain favorable  arrangements with
third-party payors,  unanticipated delays in the Company's implementation of its
Integrated Service Model, general conditions in the economy and capital markets,
and other  factors  which may be  identified  from time to time in the Company's
Securities and Exchange Commission filings and other public announcements.




                                       35








ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

         Consolidated   financial   statements   of  the  Company   meeting  the
requirements of Regulation S-X are filed on the succeeding  pages of this Item 8
of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as listed below:



                                                                                   Page
                                                                                   ----
                                                                                 
          Report of Independent Auditor                                              37

          Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and 1998               38

          Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended
          December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998                                           40
          Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the
          Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998                               41

          Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
          December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998                                           43

          Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                                 46


          Other financial statements and schedules required under Regulation S-X
are listed in Item 14(a)2,  and filed under Item 14(d), of this Annual Report on
Form 10-K.


QUARTERLY RESULTS (UNAUDITED)

         Set forth  below is certain  summary  information  with  respect to the
Company's  operations for the last eight fiscal quarters.  All amounts have been
restated  to  reflect  the  1997  acquisition  of  Health  Images  and the  1998
acquisition  of NSC, both of which were  accounted for as poolings of interests.
All per share amounts have been  adjusted to reflect a  two-for-one  stock split
effected in the form of a 100% stock dividend paid on March 17, 1997.


                                             
                                                     1997                                                          
- - - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                1ST                 2ND               3RD                 4TH
                                              QUARTER             QUARTER           QUARTER             QUARTER    
                                              -------             -------           -------             -------    
                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

                                                                                                 
  Revenues                                  $  714,534          $  748,032         $ 776,062           $ 884,548
  Net income                                    67,191              84,586            89,053             102,229
  Net income per common share                     0.19                0.24              0.25                0.26
  Net income per common share --
      assuming dilution                           0.18                0.22              0.24                0.25







                                             
                                                     1998                                                          
- - - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                1ST                 2ND               3RD                 4TH
                                              QUARTER             QUARTER           QUARTER             QUARTER    
                                              -------             -------           -------             -------    
                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

                                                                                                   
  Revenues                                  $  938,779          $  979,064         $ 1,047,422         $ 1,040,809
  Net income                                   113,132             121,600               5,670            (193,844)
  Net income per common share                     0.27                0.29                0.01               (0.46)
  Net income per common share --
      assuming dilution                           0.26                0.28                0.01               (0.46)







                                       36



                         Report of Independent Auditors

The Board of Directors
HEALTHSOUTH Corporation

We have audited the  accompanying  consolidated  balance  sheets of  HEALTHSOUTH
Corporation  and  Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1998, and the related
consolidated statements of income,  stockholders' equity and cash flows for each
of the three  years in the period  ended  December  31,  1998.  Our audits  also
included the  financial  statement  schedule  listed in the Index at Item 14(a).
These financial  statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's
management.  Our  responsibility  is to express  an  opinion on these  financial
statements and schedule based on our audits.

We  conducted  our  audits  in  accordance  with  generally   accepted  auditing
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes
assessing the  accounting  principles  used and  significant  estimates  made by
management,  as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated  financial statements referred to above present
fairly,  in all  material  respects,  the  consolidated  financial  position  of
HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation and Subsidiaries at December 31, 1997 and 1998, and the
consolidated  results of their  operations  and their cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity  with generally
accepted  accounting  principles.  Also, in our opinion,  the related  financial
statement  schedule,   when  considered  in  relation  to  the  basic  financial
statements  taken  as a whole,  presents  fairly  in all  material  aspects  the
information set forth therein.

                                        ERNST & YOUNG LLP



Birmingham, Alabama
March 19, 1999








                                       37




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                           Consolidated Balance Sheets





                                                                              DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                                       1997                  1998
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                                             (In thousands)
                                                                                 
Assets
Current assets:
   Cash and cash equivalents (Note 3)                            $       162,992      $        138,827
   Other marketable securities (Note 3)                                   22,026                 3,686
   Accounts receivable, net of allowances for doubtful
     accounts of $127,572,000 in 1997 and $143,689,000 in
     1998                                                                765,335               897,901
   Inventories                                                            67,867                77,840
   Prepaid expenses and other current assets                             122,468               169,899
   Income tax refund receivable                                                -                58,832
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
Total current assets                                                   1,140,688             1,346,985

Other assets:
   Loans to officers                                                       1,007                 3,263
   Assets held for sale (Notes 9 and 13)                                  60,400                27,430
   Other (Note 4)                                                        161,129               147,158
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                                         222,536               177,851

Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 5)                            1,890,110             2,288,262
Intangible assets, net (Note 6)                                        2,312,990             2,959,910











                                                              ---------------------------------------------
Total assets                                                     $     5,566,324         $   6,773,008
                                                              =============================================





                                       38










                                                                                                         
                                                                                 DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                                       1997                  1998
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                                            (In thousands)
                                                                                             
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 
Current liabilities:
   Accounts payable                                              $       125,824       $        76,099
   Salaries and wages payable                                            124,823               111,243
   Accrued interest payable and other liabilities                        101,112               126,110
   Income taxes payable                                                   92,507                     -
   Deferred income taxes (Note 10)                                        34,345                37,612
   Current portion of long-term debt (Note 7)                             49,160                49,994
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities                                                527,771               401,058

Long-term debt (Note 7)                                                1,565,801             2,780,932
Deferred income taxes (Note 10)                                           75,533                28,856
Deferred revenue and other long-term liabilities                           2,224                11,940
Minority interests-limited partnerships (Note 1)                         104,372               127,218

Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)

Stockholders' equity (Notes 8 and 12):
   Preferred stock, $.10 par value--1,500,000 shares
     authorized; issued and outstanding-
      none                                                                     -                     -
   Common stock, $.01 par value--600,000,000 shares
     authorized; issued--415,537,000 in 1997 and
     423,178,000 in 1998                                                   4,155                 4,232
   Additional paid-in capital                                          2,474,726             2,577,647
   Retained earnings                                                     833,328               878,228
   Treasury stock, at cost (552,000 shares in 1997 and
     2,042,000 shares in 1998)                                            (3,923)              (21,813)
   Receivable from Employee Stock Ownership
     Plan                                                                (12,247)              (10,169)
   Notes receivable from stockholders                                     (5,416)               (5,121)
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity                                             3,290,623             3,423,004
                                                              ---------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity                       $     5,566,324       $     6,773,008
                                                              =============================================


                            See accompanying notes.



                                       39





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                        Consolidated Statements of Income


                                                               YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    1996                1997                 1998
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     (In thousands, except for per share amounts)

                                                                                          
Revenues                                       $     2,648,188      $     3,123,176     $     4,006,074

Operating unit expenses                              1,718,108            1,952,189           2,491,914
Corporate general and
  administrative expenses                               82,953               87,512             112,800
Provision for doubtful accounts                         61,311               74,743             112,202
Depreciation and amortization                          212,967              257,136             344,591
Merger and acquisition related expenses
   (Notes 2 and 9)                                      41,515               15,875              25,630
Loss on sale of assets (Note 9)                              -                    -              31,232
Impairment and restructuring charges
   (Note 13)                                            37,390                    -             483,455
Interest expense                                       101,367              112,529             148,163
Interest income                                         (6,749)              (6,004)            (11,286)
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     2,248,862            2,493,980           3,738,701
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------

Income before income taxes and minority
   interests                                           399,326              629,196             267,373
Provision for income taxes (Note 10)                   148,545              213,668             143,347
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       250,781              415,528             124,026
Minority interests                                      54,003               72,469              77,468
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
Net income                                     $       196,778      $       343,059     $        46,558
                                            ===============================================================

Weighted average common shares outstanding             336,603              366,768             421,462
                                            ===============================================================
Net income per common share                    $          0.58      $          0.94     $          0.11
                                            ===============================================================
Weighted average common shares
  outstanding - assuming dilution                      365,715              386,211             432,275
                                            ===============================================================
Net income per common share -                                     
  assuming dilution                            $          0.55      $          0.89     $          0.11
                                            ===============================================================



                            See accompanying notes.



                                       40






                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
                  Years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998


                                                                                                                                    
                                                                           Additional                                               
                                                        Common Stock        Paid-In      Retained          Treasury Stock           
                                                     Shares      Amount     Capital      Earnings      Shares       Amount          
                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     (In thousands)

                                                                                                            
Balance at December 31, 1995                         170,301   $  1,703   $1,053,713     $  315,683     3,070       $ (30,864) 
Adjustment for Advantage Health Merger                     -          -            -        (17,638)        -               -       
Adjustment for 1996 mergers (Note 2)                   4,047         40       68,785         (1,256)        -               -       
Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)             4,135         42       35,289              -         -               -       
Proceeds from issuance of common shares                2,650         26       54,923              -         -               -       
Common shares issued upon conversion of               
   convertible debt                                      562          6        6,693              -         -               -       
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock                 
   options (Note 8)                                        -          -       23,767              -         -               -
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                          -          -            -              -         -               -       
Payments received on stockholders' notes                 
   receivable                                              -          -            -              -         -               -       
Purchase of limited partnership units                      -          -            -            (83)        -               -       
Purchase of treasury stock                                 -          -            -              -        89            (736)    
Retirement of treasury stock                          (1,835)       (18)     (31,259)             -    (3,068)         31,277  
Net income                                                 -          -            -        196,778         -               -       
Translation adjustment                                     -          -            -            692         -               -       
Dividends paid                                             -          -            -         (1,222)        -               -       
Stock split                                          159,727      1,597       (1,597)             -        91               -       
                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1996                         339,587      3,396    1,210,314        492,954       182            (323)    

Common shares issued in connection with               
   acquisitions (Note 9)                              46,412        464      999,587              -         -               -       
Value of options exchanged in connection with                                                                                       
   the Horizon/CMS acquisition (Note 9)                    -          -       23,191              -         -               -       
Common shares issued upon conversion of               
   convertible debt                                   12,324        123      114,390              -         -               -       
Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)            10,525        105       60,221              -         -               -       
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock        
   options (Note 8)                                        -          -       67,090              -         -               -       
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                          -          -            -              -         -               -       
Payments received on stockholders' notes              
   receivable                                              -          -            -              -         -               -       
Purchase of limited partnership units                      -          -            -         (2,465)        -               -       
Purchase of treasury stock                                 -          -            -              -       370          (3,600)      
Net income                                                 -          -            -        343,059         -               -       
Translation adjustment                                     -          -            -           (220)        -               -       
Stock dividend                                         6,689         67          (67)             -         -               -       
                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1997                         415,537      4,155    2,474,726        833,328       552          (3,923)      

Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)             6,885         69       60,135              -         -               -       
Common shares issued in connection with               
   acquisitions (Note 9)                                 699          7       19,390              -         -               -       
Common shares issued in connection with lease            
   buyout                                                 57          1        1,592              -         -               -       
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock           
   options (Note 8)                                        -          -       21,804              -         -               -       
Purchase of treasury shares                                -          -            -              -     1,490         (17,890)      
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                          -          -            -              -         -               -       
Payments received on stockholders' notes                   
   receivable                                              -          -            -              -         -               -       
Purchase of limited partnership units                      -          -            -         (1,634)        -               -       
Net income                                                 -          -            -         46,558         -               -       
Translation adjustment                                     -          -            -            (24)        -               -       
                                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1998                         423,178    $ 4,232   $2,577,647      $ 878,228     2,042        $(21,813)      
                                                   =================================================================================





                                       41






                                                                           Notes                
                                                                         Receivable       Total
                                                           Receivable       from      Stockholders'
                                                           from ESOP    Stockholders      Equity
                                                     ---------------------------------------------
                                                   
                                                                                  
Balance at December 31, 1995                              $(15,886)    $  (6,471) $   1,317,878
Adjustment for Advantage Health Merger                           -             -        (17,638)
Adjustment for 1996 mergers (Note 2)                             -             -         67,569
Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)                       -             -         35,331
Proceeds from issuance of common shares                          -             -         54,949
Common shares issued upon conversion of                          
   convertible debt                                              -             -          6,699
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock                   
   options (Note 8)                                              -             -         23,767
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                            1,738             -          1,738
Payments received on stockholders' notes                         
   receivable                                                    -         1,048          1,048
Purchase of limited partnership units                            -             -            (83)
Purchase of treasury stock                                       -             -           (736)
Retirement of treasury stock                                     -             -              -
Net income                                                       -             -        196,778
Translation adjustment                                           -             -            692
Dividends paid                                                   -             -         (1,222)
Stock split                                                      -             -              -
                                                   -----------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1996                               (14,148)       (5,423)     1,686,770

Common shares issued in connection with                          
   acquisitions (Note 9)                                         -             -      1,000,051
Value of options exchanged in connection with                                      
   the Horizon/CMS acquisition (Note 9)                          -             -         23,191
Common shares issued upon conversion of                          
   convertible debt                                              -             -        114,513
Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)                       -             -         60,326
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock                   
   options (Note 8)                                              -             -         67,090
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                            1,901             -          1,901
Payments received on stockholders' notes                         
   receivable                                                    -             7              7
Purchase of limited partnership units                            -             -         (2,465)
Purchase of treasury stock                                       -             -         (3,600)
Net income                                                       -             -        343,059
Translation adjustment                                           -             -           (220)
Stock dividend                                                   -             -              -
                                                   -----------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1997                               (12,247)       (5,416)     3,290,623

Proceeds from exercise of options (Note 8)                       -             -         60,204
Common shares issued in connection with                          
   acquisitions (Note 9)                                         -             -         19,397
Common shares issued in connection with lease                    
   buyout                                                        -             -          1,593
Income tax benefits related to incentive stock                   
   options (Note 8)                                              -             -         21,804
Purchase of treasury shares                                      -             -        (17,890)
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                            2,078             -          2,078
Payments received on stockholders' notes                         
   receivable                                                    -           295            295
Purchase of limited partnership units                            -             -         (1,634)
Net income                                                       -             -         46,558
Translation adjustment                                           -             -            (24)
                                                   -----------------------------------------------
Balance at December 31, 1998                              $(10,169)      $(5,121)   $ 3,423,004
                                                   ===============================================








                            See accompanying notes.



                                       42





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                      Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows





                                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
                                                           1996              1997             1998
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        (In thousands)
                                                                                            
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income                                              $     196,778     $     343,059    $      46,558
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
   provided by operating activities:
     Depreciation and amortization                            212,967           257,136          344,591
     Provision for doubtful accounts                           61,311            74,743          112,202
     Impairment and restructuring charges                      37,390                 -          483,455
     Merger and acquisition related expenses                   41,515            15,875           25,630
     Loss on sale of assets                                         -                 -           31,232
     Income applicable to minority interests of
       limited partnerships                                    54,003            72,469           77,468
     Provision for deferred income taxes                       15,818            15,237          (43,410)
     Provision for deferred revenue                            (1,255)             (406)               -
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities,   
       net of effects of acquisitions:
         Accounts receivable                                 (145,837)         (200,778)        (250,468)
         Inventories, prepaid expenses and other
           current assets                                     (37,567)           21,803         (132,280)
         Accounts payable and accrued expenses                (34,548)         (152,201)         (58,846)
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities                     400,575           446,937          636,132

INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of property, plant and equipment                   (208,908)         (349,861)        (714,212)
Proceeds from sale of non-strategic assets                          -         1,136,571           34,100
Additions to intangible assets, net of effects of
   acquisitions                                              (175,380)          (61,887)         (48,415)
Assets obtained through acquisitions, net of
   liabilities assumed                                       (109,334)         (309,548)        (729,440)
Payments on purchase accounting accruals                            -                 -         (292,949)
Changes in other assets                                       (57,328)         (108,245)         (48,883)
Proceeds received on sale of other marketable
   securities                                                   8,774            41,087           18,340
Investments in other marketable securities                          -            (1,339)               -
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities          (542,176)          346,778       (1,781,459)





                                       43





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)



                                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
                                                           1996              1997             1998
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        (In thousands)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
                                                                                            
Proceeds from borrowings                                $     205,873     $   1,763,317    $   3,486,474
Principal payments on long-term debt                         (117,700)       (2,537,620)      (2,309,163)
Proceeds from exercise of options                              35,331            60,326           60,204
Proceeds from issuance of common stock                         55,628                70                -
Purchase of treasury stock                                       (736)                -          (17,890)
Reduction in receivable from ESOP                               1,738             1,901            2,078
Payments received from stockholders                             1,048                 7              295
Dividends paid                                                 (1,222)                -                -
Proceeds from investment by minority interests                     83             4,096            4,471
Purchase of limited partnership units                          (3,064)           (2,685)          (1,658)
Payment of cash distributions to limited partners             (42,051)          (79,927)        (103,649)
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing 
 activities                                                   134,928          (790,515)       1,121,162
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------     
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents               (6,673)            3,200          (24,165)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year                170,102           159,792          162,992
Cash flows related to mergers                                  (3,637)                -                -
                                                     ------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year                $     159,792     $     162,992    $     138,827
                                                     ======================================================

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW 
INFORMATION 
Cash paid during the year for:
   Interest                                             $      99,684     $     113,241    $     143,606
   Income taxes                                                72,212           140,715          315,028

Non-cash investing activities:


The Company assumed liabilities of $30,608,000,  $1,163,913,000 and $107,091,000
during the years  ended  December  31,  1996,  1997 and 1998,  respectively,  in
connection with its acquisitions.

During the year ended  December  31,  1996,  the  Company  issued  approximately
8,095,000 common shares as consideration for mergers (see Note 2).

During the year ended December 31, 1997, the Company  issued  46,480,000  common
shares with a market value of  $1,000,051,000  as consideration for acquisitions
accounted for as purchases.

During the year ended  December  31, 1998,  the Company  issued  699,000  common
shares with a market value of  $19,397,000  as  consideration  for  acquisitions
accounted for as purchases.



                                       44


                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)


Non-cash financing activities:

During 1997, the Company effected a two-for-one  stock split of its common stock
which was effected in the form of a 100% stock dividend.

The  Company  received  a tax  benefit  from the  disqualifying  disposition  of
incentive  stock options of  $23,767,000,  $67,090,000  and  $21,804,000 for the
years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.

During 1997, the holders of the Company's  $115,000,000  in aggregate  principal
amount  of 5%  Convertible  Subordinated  Debentures  due 2001  surrendered  the
Debentures for conversion into approximately  12,324,000 shares of the Company's
Common Stock.

See accompanying notes.



                                       45





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

                   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

                               December 31, 1998

                                                                               
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The significant accounting policies followed by HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation and its
subsidiaries   ("the  Company")  are  presented  as  an  integral  part  of  the
consolidated financial statements.

NATURE OF OPERATIONS

HEALTHSOUTH is engaged in the business of providing  healthcare services through
two business  segments:  inpatient and other  clinical  services and  outpatient
services.  Inpatient and other clinical  services  consist of services  provided
through  inpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  specialty  medical  centers and
certain physician  practices and other clinical  services.  Outpatient  services
consist  of  services  provided  through  outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities
(including   occupational  health  centers),   outpatient  surgery  centers  and
outpatient diagnostic centers.

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

The  consolidated  financial  statements  include the  accounts  of  HEALTHSOUTH
Corporation  ("HEALTHSOUTH") and its wholly-owned  subsidiaries,  as well as its
majority ownership or controlling  interest in limited  partnerships and limited
liability companies. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have
been eliminated in consolidation.

OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Company has adopted the  provisions  of Statement  of  Financial  Accounting
Standards  ("SFAS") No. 131,  "Disclosures  about  Segments of an Enterprise and
Related  Information".  SFAS  131  requires  the  utilization  of a  "management
approach" to define and report the financial results of operating segments.  The
management   approach  defines  operating  segments  along  the  lines  used  by
management to assess  performance  and make  operating  and resource  allocation
decisions.  The Company has aggregated  the financial  results of its outpatient
rehabilitation facilities,  outpatient surgery centers and outpatient diagnostic
centers into the outpatient  services  segment.  These three types of facilities
have common economic characteristics,  provide similar services, serve a similar
class of  customers,  cross-utilize  administrative  services  and  operate in a
similar regulatory  environment.  In addition,  the Company's integrated service
model  strategy  combines  these  services  in a  seamless  environment  for the
delivery of patient care on an episodic basis.




                                       46





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

                                                 
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

The  adoption  of SFAS 131 did not affect  results of  operations  or  financial
position, but did require the disclosure of segment information (see Note 14).

USE OF ESTIMATES

The preparation of financial  statements in conformity  with generally  accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect  the  amounts  reported  in  the  accompanying   consolidated   financial
statements and notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

MARKETABLE SECURITIES

Marketable securities and debt securities are classified as  available-for-sale.
Available-for-sale  securities  are carried at fair value,  with the  unrealized
gains and losses, if material, reported as a separate component of stockholders'
equity,  net of tax.  The cost of the specific  security  sold method is used to
compute  gain or loss on the  sale of  securities.  Interest  and  dividends  on
securities  classified as  available-for-sale  are included in interest  income.
Marketable securities and debt securities held by the Company have maturities of
less than one year.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND THIRD-PARTY REIMBURSEMENT ACTIVITIES

Receivables  from  patients,  insurance  companies and  third-party  contractual
insured accounts  (Medicare and Medicaid) are based on payment  agreements which
generally  result  in the  Company's  collecting  an amount  different  from the
established rates. Net third-party  settlement  receivables included in accounts
receivable  were  $36,759,000  and  $9,277,000  at  December  31, 1997 and 1998,
respectively.  Final  determination  of the  settlement  is subject to review by
appropriate authorities.  The differences between original estimates made by the
Company and subsequent  revisions (including final settlement) were not material
to the operations of the Company.  Adequate allowances are provided for doubtful
accounts and  contractual  adjustments.  Uncollectible  accounts are written off
against the allowance for doubtful  accounts after adequate  collection  efforts
are made.  Net  accounts  receivable  include  only those  amounts  estimated by
management to be collectible.




                                       47





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



                                                                                
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

The concentration of net accounts receivable from third-party contractual payors
and others, as a percentage of total net accounts receivable, was as follows:



                                                             DECEMBER 31,
                                               ---------------------------------------
                                                       1997             1998
                                               =======================================
                                                                  
Medicare                                                25%             21%
Medicaid                                                 4               4
Other                                                   71              75
                                               ---------------------------------------
                                                       100%            100%
                                               =======================================


INVENTORIES

Inventories  are  stated  at the  lower of cost or  market  using  the  specific
identification method.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property,  plant and equipment are recorded at cost.  Upon sale or retirement of
property,  plant or equipment, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are
eliminated  from  the  respective  account  and  the  resulting  gain or loss is
included in the results of operations.

Interest cost incurred during the construction of a facility is capitalized. The
Company incurred interest costs of $105,310,000,  $115,020,000 and $148,793,000,
of which $3,943,000,  $2,491,000 and $630,000 was capitalized, during 1996, 1997
and 1998, respectively.

Depreciation  and amortization is computed using the  straight-line  method over
the  estimated  useful  lives  of the  assets  or the  term  of  the  lease,  as
appropriate.  The  estimated  useful  life of  buildings  is 30-40 years and the
general range of useful lives for leasehold  improvements,  furniture,  fixtures
and equipment is 10-15 years.








                                       48






                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)


INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Cost in excess of net asset value of purchased  facilities is amortized  over 20
to 40 years using the straight-line method, with the majority of such cost being
amortized  over 40  years.  Organization  and  partnership  formation  costs are
deferred  and  amortized  on a  straight-line  basis over a period of 36 months.
Organization,  partnership  formation  and start-up  costs for a project that is
subsequently  abandoned  are charged to  operations  in that period.  Debt issue
costs  are  amortized  over  the term of the  debt.  Noncompete  agreements  are
amortized using the straight-line method over the term of the agreements.

Effective July 1, 1997, the Company began expensing amounts reflecting the costs
of  implementing  its clinical  and  administrative  programs  and  protocols at
acquired facilities in the period in which such costs are incurred.  Previously,
the Company had capitalized  such costs and amortized them over 36 months.  Such
costs at June 30, 1997 aggregated $64,643,000,  net of accumulated amortization.
These  capitalized  costs will be amortized  in  accordance  with the  Company's
existing policy and will be fully amortized by June 2000.

Through  June 30,  1997,  the  Company  has  assigned  value to and  capitalized
organization  and  partnership  formation  costs which have been incurred by the
Company or obtained by the Company in  acquisitions  accounted for as purchases.
Effective July 1, 1997, the Company no longer assigned value to organization and
partnership formation costs obtained in acquisitions  accounted for as purchases
except to the extent that objective evidence exists that such costs will provide
future economic benefits to the Company after the acquisition. Such organization
and  partnership  formation  costs at June 30,  1997 which were  obtained by the
Company in  purchase  transactions  aggregated  $8,380,000,  net of  accumulated
amortization.  Such costs at June 30, 1997 will be amortized in accordance  with
the Company's existing policy and will be fully amortized by June 2000.

MINORITY INTERESTS

The equity of minority  investors in limited  partnerships and limited liability
companies  of the  Company is  reported on the  consolidated  balance  sheets as
minority  interests.  Minority  interests  reported in the  consolidated  income
statements reflect the respective interests in the income or loss of the limited
partnerships  or  limited  liability  companies  attributable  to  the  minority
investors  (ranging from 1% to 50% at December 31, 1998), the effect of which is
removed from the results of operations of the Company.


                                       49




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)


REVENUES

Revenues  include net patient  service  revenues and other  operating  revenues.
Other operating  revenues include cafeteria revenue,  gift shop revenue,  rental
income,  trainer/contract  revenue,  management and  administrative  fee revenue
(related to non-consolidated  subsidiaries and affiliates) and  transcriptionist
fees which are insignificant to total revenues. Net patient service revenues are
reported at the  estimated net  realizable  amounts from  patients,  third-party
payors  and  others  for  services  rendered,  including  estimated  retroactive
adjustments under reimbursement agreements with third-party payors.




                                       50




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)


INCOME PER COMMON SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per
share:


                                                                                                

                                                                       YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                        ------------------------------------------------------
                                                              1996              1997               1998
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
                                                            (In thousands, except per share amounts)
Numerator:
      Net income                                            $196,778           $343,059           $46,558
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
      Numerator for basic earnings per 
        share--income available to 
        common stockholders                                  196,778            343,059            46,558
      Effect of dilutive securities:
         Elimination of interest and amortization on
           5% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due
           2001, less the related effect of the
           provision for income taxes                          3,839                968                 -
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
      Numerator for diluted earnings per share-income
        available to common stockholders after
        assumed conversion                                  $200,617           $344,027          $ 46,558
                                                        ================= ================== =================
Denominator:
      Denominator for basic earnings per share -
        weighted-average shares                              336,603            366,768           421,462
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
      Effect of dilutive securities:
         Net effect of dilutive stock options                 16,362             16,374            10,813
         Assumed conversion of 5% Convertible
           Subordinated Debentures due 2001                   12,226              3,057                 -
         Assumed conversion of other dilutive           
           convertible debt                                      524                 12                 -
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
      Dilutive potential common shares                        29,112             19,443            10,813
                                                        ----------------- ------------------ -----------------
      Denominator of diluted earnings per share -
        adjusted weighted-average shares and
        assumed conversions                                  365,715            386,211           432,275
                                                        ================= ================== =================
Basic earnings per share                                     $  0.58            $  0.94           $  0.11
                                                        ================= ================== =================
Diluted earnings per share                                   $  0.55            $  0.89           $  0.11
                                                        ================= ================== =================






                                       51




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

IMPAIRMENT OF ASSETS

The Company records  impairment  losses on long-lived  assets used in operations
when events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the
undiscounted  cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than
the carrying amounts of those assets.

With respect to the carrying value of the excess of cost over net asset value of
purchased  facilities and other intangible  assets,  the Company determines on a
quarterly basis whether an impairment event has occurred by considering  factors
such as the market value of the asset;  a  significant  adverse  change in legal
factors or in the business climate;  adverse action by a regulator; a history of
operating or cash flow losses;  or a projection of continuing  losses associated
with an operating entity. The carrying value of excess cost over net asset value
of purchased  facilities  and other  intangible  assets will be evaluated if the
facts and  circumstances  suggest that it has been impaired.  If this evaluation
indicates  that the value of the asset will not be  recoverable,  as  determined
based  on  the  undiscounted  cash  flows  of  the  entity  over  the  remaining
amortization period, an impairment loss is calculated based on the excess of the
carrying amount of the asset over the asset's fair value.

SELF-INSURANCE

The Company is self-insured for professional liability and comprehensive general
liability. Liabilities for asserted and unasserted claims are accrued based upon
specific  claims and  incidents  and the  claims  history  of the  Company.  The
reserves for estimated liabilities for asserted and unasserted claims, which are
not material in relation to the  Company's  consolidated  financial  position at
December 31, 1997 and 1998, are included with accrued interest payable and other
liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

RECLASSIFICATIONS

Certain amounts in 1996 and 1997 financial  statements have been reclassified to
conform  with the 1998  presentation.  Such  reclassifications  had no effect on
previously reported consolidated financial position and consolidated net income.




                                       52




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION

The Company  translates the assets and  liabilities of its foreign  subsidiaries
stated in local  functional  currencies to U.S. dollars at the rates of exchange
in effect at the end of the period.  Revenues and expenses are translated  using
rates of exchange in effect  during the period.  Gains and losses from  currency
translation are included in stockholders' equity.  Currency transaction gains or
losses are recognized in current operations and have not been significant to the
Company's operating results in any period.

2.  MERGERS

Effective January 17, 1996, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company merged with
Surgical Care Affiliates,  Inc. ("SCA"), and in connection therewith the Company
issued  91,856,678  shares  of its  common  stock in  exchange  for all of SCA's
outstanding  common stock.  Prior to the merger, SCA operated 67 surgery centers
in 24 states. Costs and expenses of approximately $19,727,000,  primarily legal,
accounting and financial  advisory  fees,  incurred by the Company in connection
with the SCA merger have been recorded in operations during 1996 and recorded as
merger expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Effective  March 14, 1996, a wholly-owned  subsidiary of the Company merged with
Advantage Health Corporation  ("Advantage Health"),  and in connection therewith
the Company issued  18,203,978 shares of its common stock in exchange for all of
Advantage  Health's  outstanding  common stock.  Prior to the merger,  Advantage
Health operated a network of 136 sites of service,  including four  freestanding
rehabilitation hospitals, one freestanding multi-use hospital, one nursing home,
68 outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  14 inpatient managed  rehabilitation
units, 24 rehabilitation  services management contracts and six managed subacute
rehabilitation units. Costs and expenses of approximately $9,212,000,  primarily
legal,  accounting  and  financial  advisory  fees,  incurred  by the Company in
connection  with the  Advantage  Health  merger have been recorded in operations
during 1996 and  reported as merger  expenses in the  accompanying  consolidated
statements of income.

Effective  March 3, 1997, a  wholly-owned  subsidiary of the Company merged with
Health Images, 





                                       53






                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

2. MERGERS (CONTINUED)

Inc.  ("Health  Images"),   and  in  connection  therewith  the  Company  issued
10,343,470  shares of its common  stock in  exchange  for all of Health  Images'
outstanding  common  stock.  Prior to the  merger,  Health  Images  operated  49
freestanding  diagnostic  imaging  centers  in 13 states  and six in the  United
Kingdom.  Costs and  expenses of  approximately  $15,875,000,  primarily  legal,
accounting and financial  advisory  fees,  incurred by the Company in connection
with the Health Images  merger have been recorded in operations  during 1997 and
reported  as merger  expenses in the  accompanying  consolidated  statements  of
income.

Effective  July 22, 1998, a  wholly-owned  subsidiary of the Company merged with
National Surgery Centers,  Inc. ("NSC"), and in connection therewith the Company
issued  20,426,261  shares  of its  common  stock in  exchange  for all of NSC's
outstanding  common  stock.  Prior to the merger,  NSC  operated  40  outpatient
surgery centers in 14 states.  Costs and expenses of approximately  $25,630,000,
primarily legal, accounting and financial advisory fees, incurred by the Company
in connection  with the NSC merger have been recorded in operations  during 1998
and reported as merger expenses in the accompanying  consolidated  statements of
income.

The mergers of the Company with SCA,  Advantage  Health,  Health  Images and NSC
were  accounted  for as poolings of interests  and,  accordingly,  the Company's
consolidated  financial  statements have been restated to include the results of
the  acquired  companies  for all  periods  presented.  There  were no  material
transactions between the Company,  SCA, Advantage Health,  Health Images and NSC
prior to the mergers.  The effects of conforming the accounting  policies of the
combined companies are not material.

Combined  and  separate  results  of the  Company  and  NSC are as  follows  (in
thousands):



                                                                 
                                          HEALTHSOUTH                NSC              Combined
                                      ---------------------- ----------------- --------------------

Year ended December 31, 1996
    Revenues                            $  2,568,155           $     80,033       $   2,648,188
    Net income                               189,864                  6,914             196,778
Year ended December 31, 1997
    Revenues                            $  3,017,269           $    105,907       $   3,123,176
    Net income                               330,608                 12,451             343,059
Year ended December 31, 1998
    Revenues                            $  3,938,376           $     67,698       $   4,006,074 
    Net income                                38,421                  8,137              46,558




Separate 1998 results for NSC include only the period January 1 through June 30,
1998.




                                       54





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


2.  MERGERS (CONTINUED)

During 1996,  wholly-owned  subsidiaries of the Company merged with Professional
Sports  Care  Management,  Inc.  ("PSCM"),  Fort  Sutter  Surgery  Center,  Inc.
("FSSCI") and ReadiCare,  Inc.  ("ReadiCare").  In connection with these mergers
the Company issued an aggregate of 8,094,598  shares of its common stock.  Costs
and expenses of  approximately  $12,576,000,  primarily  legal,  accounting  and
financial advisory fees,  incurred by the Company in connection with the mergers
have been recorded in operations  during 1996 and reported as merger expenses in
the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

The PSCM and  ReadiCare  mergers were  accounted  for as poolings of  interests.
However,  due to the  immateriality of these mergers,  the Company's  historical
financial  statements  for all  periods  prior  to the  quarters  in  which  the
respective mergers were completed have not been restated. Instead, stockholders'
equity has been  increased  by  $43,230,000  to reflect  the effects of the PSCM
merger and  $15,431,000  to reflect the  effects of the  ReadiCare  merger.  The
results of operations  of PSCM and  ReadiCare  are included in the  accompanying
consolidated  financial  statements  from the date of  acquisition  forward.  In
addition,  the FSSCI  merger was a  stock-for-stock  acquisition.  Stockholders'
equity has been increased by $8,908,000 to reflect the effects of the merger.

3. CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND OTHER MARKETABLE SECURITIES

Cash,  cash  equivalents  and  other  marketable  securities  consisted  of  the
following:




                                                       DECEMBER 31,
                                          --------------------------------------
                                               1997                   1998
                                          ------------------- ------------------
                                                    (In thousands)
                                                                   
Cash                                        $  150,318             $ 131,709
Cash equivalents                                12,674                 7,118
                                          ------------------- ----------------
   Total cash and cash equivalents             162,992               138,827
Certificates of deposit                          1,256                 1,256
Municipal put bonds                              1,570                 1,430
Municipal put bond mutual funds                    500                     -
Other debt securities                           17,700                     -
Collateralized mortgage obligations              1,000                 1,000
                                          ------------------- ----------------
Total other marketable securities               22,026                 3,686
                                          ------------------- ----------------
Total cash, cash equivalents and other
   marketable securities (approximates
   market value)                           $   185,018             $ 142,513
                                          =================== ================






                                       55







                     HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


3. CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND OTHER MARKETABLE SECURITIES (CONTINUED)

For purposes of the  consolidated  balance  sheets and statements of cash flows,
marketable securities purchased with an original maturity of ninety days or less
are considered cash equivalents.

4. OTHER ASSETS

Other assets consisted of the following:




                                                                    


                                                           DECEMBER 31,
                                             -------------------------------------------
                                                    1997                  1998
                                              --------------------- ---------------------
                                                         (In thousands)

Notes receivable                               $  70,655             $   59,992
Prepaid long-term lease                            9,190                  7,829
Investments accounted for on equity method         9,794                 16,548
Investments accounted for at cost                 28,427                 52,004
Real estate investments                           21,911                  2,820
Trusteed funds                                       921                  4,218
Other                                             20,231                  3,747
                                            --------------------- --------------------
                                               $ 161,129             $  147,158
                                            ===================== =====================


The Company has various investments, with ownership percentages ranging from 24%
to 49%,  which are  accounted  for using the equity  method of  accounting.  The
Company's  equity in  earnings  of these  investments  was not  material  to the
Company's  consolidated results of operations for the years ended 1996, 1997 and
1998. At December 31, 1998,  the investment  balance on the Company's  books was
not  materially  different  than the  underlying  equity  in net  assets  of the
unconsolidated entities.

Investments  accounted  for at cost are  comprised of  investments  in companies
involved in operations  similar to those of the Company.  For those  investments
with a quoted market price, the Company's  investment  balance is not materially
different  than the  quoted  market  price.  For all other  investments  in this
category,  it was not practicable to estimate the fair value because of the lack
of a quoted  market price and the  inability to estimate the fair value  without
incurring  excessive  costs. The carrying amount at December 31, 1998 represents
the original cost of the investments, which management believes is not impaired.





                                       56







                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:



                                                                             


                                                                          DECEMBER 31,
                                                         ---------------------------------------
                                                               1997                   1998
                                                         --------------------- -----------------
                                                                       (In thousands)

Land                                                      $   115,117             $   123,076
Buildings                                                   1,039,523               1,153,845
Leasehold improvements                                        196,934                 348,205
Furniture, fixtures and equipment                           1,077,538               1,266,185
Construction-in-progress                                       32,876                  29,212
                                                         --------------------- -----------------
                                                            2,461,988               2,920,523
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization                571,878                 632,261
                                                         --------------------- -----------------
                                                          $ 1,890,110             $ 2,288,262
                                                         ===================== =================





6.  INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Intangible assets consisted of the following:



                                                                     
                                                                 DECEMBER 31,
                                                -------------------------------------------
                                                        1997                  1998
                                                ---------------------  --------------------
                                                                 (In thousands)

Organizational, partnership formation and
   start-up costs (see Note 1)                     $   255,810           $   200,160
Debt issue costs                                        33,114                56,068
Noncompete agreements                                  121,581               130,776
Cost in excess of net asset value of
   purchased facilities                              2,176,127             2,919,187
                                               --------------------- ---------------------
                                                     2,586,632             3,306,191
Less accumulated amortization                          273,642               346,281
                                               --------------------- ---------------------
                                                   $ 2,312,990           $ 2,959,910
                                               ===================== =====================





                                       57




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


7.  LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consisted of the following:



                                                                                    


                                                                               DECEMBER 31,
                                                                -------------------------------------------
                                                                        1997                  1998
                                                                --------------------- ---------------------
                                                                              (In thousands)

Notes and bonds payable:
Advances under a $1,750,000,000 credit agreement with banks     $         -                 $ 1,325,000
Advances under a $1,250,000,000 credit agreement with banks       1,175,000                           -
9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2001                             250,000                     250,000
3.25% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2003                        -                     567,750
6.875% Senior Notes due 2005                                              -                     250,000
7.0% Senior Notes due 2008                                                -                     250,000
Notes payable to banks and various other notes payable, at 
 interest rates from 5.5% to 14.9%                                  128,036                     113,755
Hospital revenue bonds payable                                       14,836                      13,712
Noncompete agreements payable with payments due at intervals
 ranging through December 2004                                       47,089                      60,709
                                                                --------------------- ---------------------
                                                                  1,614,961                   2,830,926
Less amounts due within one year                                     49,160                      49,994
                                                                --------------------- ---------------------
                                                                $ 1,565,801                 $ 2,780,932
                                                                ===================== =====================




The fair value of the total long-term debt  approximates  book value at December
31, 1997 and, except for the 3.25% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2003,
at  December  31,  1998.  The fair value of the 3.25%  Convertible  Subordinated
Debentures  due 2003 was  approximately  $483,000,000  at December 31, 1998. The
fair values of the Company's  long-term debt are estimated using discounted cash
flow analysis,  based on the Company's current  incremental  borrowing rates for
similar types of borrowing arrangements.

The Company has a  $1,750,000,000  revolving  credit facility with  NationsBank,
N.A.   ("NationsBank")   and  other   participating   banks  (the  "1998  Credit
Agreement").  The 1998  Credit  Agreement  replaced  a  previous  $1,250,000,000
revolving credit agreement, also with NationsBank.  In conjunction with the 1998
Credit  Agreement,  the Company also canceled its  $350,000,000  364-day interim
revolving  credit  facility  with  NationsBank.  Interest  on  the  1998 






                                       58

                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


7.  LONG-TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)


Credit  Agreement  is paid based on LIBOR plus a  predetermined  margin,  a base
rate, or competitively  bid rates from the  participating  banks. The Company is
required to pay a fee on the unused  portion of the  revolving  credit  facility
ranging from 0.09% to 0.25%,  depending on certain defined ratios. The principal
amount is payable in full on June 22, 2003.  The Company has provided a negative
pledge on all assets under the 1998 Credit Agreement.  At December 31, 1998, the
effective   interest  rate  associated  with  the  1998  Credit   Agreement  was
approximately 5.9%.

The Company also has a Short Term Credit Agreement with NationsBank (as amended,
the "Short Term Credit  Agreement"),  providing  for a  $500,000,000  short term
revolving  credit  facility.  The terms of the Short Term Credit  Agreement  are
substantially  consistent with those of the 1998 Credit  Agreement.  Interest on
the Short Term  Credit  Agreement  is paid  based on LIBOR plus a  predetermined
margin or a base  rate.  The  Company  is  required  to pay a fee on the  unused
portion of the credit facility ranging from 0.09% to 0.25%, depending on certain
defined  ratios.  The principal  amount is payable in full on February 15, 2000,
with an earlier repayment required in the event that the Company consummates any
public offering or private  placement of debt securities.  At December 31, 1998,
the  Company  had not  drawn  down any  amounts  under  the  Short  Term  Credit
Agreement.

On March 24, 1994,  the Company  issued  $250,000,000  principal  amount of 9.5%
Senior Subordinated Notes due 2001 (the "Notes"). Interest is payable on April 1
and October 1. The Notes are senior subordinated  obligations of the Company and
as such are  subordinated to all existing and future senior  indebtedness of the
Company,  and also are  effectively  subordinated  to all  existing  and  future
liabilities of the Company's subsidiaries and partnerships.  The Notes mature on
April 1, 2001.

On March  20,  1998,  the  Company  issued  $500,000,000  in  3.25%  Convertible
Subordinated  Debentures  due 2003 (the  "3.25%  Convertible  Debentures")  in a
private  placement.  An  additional  $67,750,000  principal  amount of the 3.25%
Convertible  Debentures  was  issued  on March 31,  1998 to cover  underwriters'
overallotments.  Interest  is  payable  on  April 1 and  October  1.  The  3.25%
Convertible  Debentures are convertible  into Common Stock of the Company at the
option of the  holder at a  conversion  price of $36.625  per share,  subject to
adjustment  upon the  occurrence  of certain  events.  The net proceeds from the
issuance  of the 3.25%  Convertible  Debentures  were used by the Company to pay
down indebtedness outstanding under its then-existing credit facilities.




                                       59


                                       



                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



7. LONG-TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)

On June 22, 1998,  the Company  issued  $250,000,000  in 6.875% Senior Notes due
2005 and $250,000,000 in 7.0% Senior Notes due 2008  (collectively,  the "Senior
Notes"). Interest is payable on June 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing
on December 15, 1998. The Senior Notes are unsecured, unsubordinated obligations
of the Company. The net proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Notes were used
by the Company to pay down  indebtedness  outstanding  under its existing credit
facilities.

Principal maturities of long-term debt are as follows:

YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,                   (IN THOUSANDS)
- - - ------------------------                   --------------

1999                                       $     49,994
2000                                             36,564
2001                                            277,805
2002                                             17,221
2003                                          1,904,692
After 2003                                      544,650
                                          --------------
                                           $  2,830,926
                                         ===============

8. STOCK OPTIONS

The Company has various  stockholder-approved  stock option plans which  provide
for the grant of options  to  directors,  officers  and other key  employees  to
purchase  Common Stock at 100% of the fair market value as of the date of grant.
The Audit and Compensation  Committee of the Board of Directors  administers the
stock  option  plans.  Options may be granted as incentive  stock  options or as
non-qualified  stock  options.   Incentive  stock  options  vest  25%  annually,
commencing upon  completion of one year of employment  subsequent to the date of
grant. Certain of the non-qualified stock options are not subject to any vesting
provisions,  while  others  vest on the same  schedule  as the  incentive  stock
options.  The options  expire at dates  ranging  from five to ten years from the
date of grant.

In October 1995, the Financial  Accounting  Standards Board issued  Statement of
Financial   Accounting   Standards   No.  123,   "Accounting   for   Stock-Based
Compensation"  ("SFAS 123").  SFAS 123 is effective  for fiscal years  beginning
after  December 15, 1995 and allows for the option of  continuing to account for
stock-based  compensation  under  Accounting  Principles  Board  Opinion No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25"), and related





                                       60





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



8.  STOCK OPTIONS (CONTINUED)

interpretations,  or selecting the fair value method of expense  recognition  as
described  in SFAS 123.  The Company has elected to follow APB 25 in  accounting
for its employee stock options.  The Company  follows SFAS 123 in accounting for
its non-employee stock options.  The total compensation  expense associated with
non-employee stock options granted in 1996, 1997 and 1998 was not material.

Pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share is required by
SFAS 123,  and has been  determined  as if the  Company  had  accounted  for its
employee  stock  options under the fair value method of SFAS 123. The fair value
for these  options  was  estimated  at the date of grant  using a  Black-Scholes
option pricing model with the following  weighted-average  assumptions for 1996,
1997 and 1998, respectively: risk-free interest rates of 6.01%, 6.12% and 6.10%;
dividend  yield of 0%;  volatility  factors of the expected  market price of the
Company's common stock of .37, .37 and .76; and a weighted-average expected life
of the options of 4.3 years, 6.2 years and 5.5 years.

The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the
fair value of traded  options which have no vesting  restrictions  and are fully
transferable.  In addition,  option valuation models require the input of highly
subjective  assumptions  including the expected stock price volatility.  Because
the  Company's  employee  stock  options  have   characteristics   significantly
different from those of traded  options,  and because  changes in the subjective
input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in management's
opinion,  the  existing  models do not  necessarily  provide a  reliable  single
measure of the fair value of its employee stock options.

For purposes of pro forma  disclosures,  the estimated fair value of the options
is amortized to expense over the options'  vesting  period.  The  Company's  pro
forma information follows:





                                                                             
                                                    YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                   ------------------------------------------------------------
                                          1996                  1997                  1998
                                   --------------------- --------------------- ----------------
                                               (In thousands, except per share amounts)

Pro forma net income                   $ 168,390            $  301,467             $  31,009
Pro forma earnings per share:
     Basic                             $    0.50            $     0.82             $    0.07
     Diluted                                0.46                  0.78                  0.07








                                       61




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


8. STOCK OPTIONS (CONTINUED)

The effect of  compensation  expense  from  stock  options on 1996 pro forma net
income  reflects the second year of vesting of 1995 awards and the first year of
vesting of 1996 awards. The 1997 pro forma net income reflects the third year of
vesting of the 1995  awards,  the second year of vesting the 1996 awards and the
first  year of  vesting of the 1997  awards.  Not until  1998 is full  effect of
recognizing  compensation  expense  for  stock  options  representative  of  the
possible effects on pro forma net income for future years.

A summary of the Company's stock option activity and related information for the
years ended December 31 follows:





                                                                                         
                                               1996                     1997                     1998
                                      ---------------------    ---------------------    ---------------------
                                                 Weighted                 Weighted                 Weighted
                                                 Average                  Average                  Average
                                      Options    Exercise      Options    Exercise      Options    Exercise
                                       (000)      Price         (000)      Price         (000)      Price
                                       -----      -----         -----      -----         -----      -----

Options outstanding January 1         36,102     $ 5           34,736       $ 7          34,771     $12
     Granted                           5,730      17           11,286        22           6,020      12
     Exercised                        (6,751)      5          (10,075)        7          (5,035)     12
     Canceled                           (345)      6           (1,176)       19          (1,319)     21
                                      -------   -------        --------    -----      ----------   ------  
Options outstanding  at December 31   34,736     $ 7           34,771       $12          34,437     $12
Options exercisable at December 31    27,978     $ 6           28,703       $11          29,156     $11

Weighted average fair value of       
    options  granted  during the  
    year                             $  7.13                $   10.59                   $  7.50





The following table summarizes  information  about stock options  outstanding at
December 31, 1998:




                                                                                         
                                                  Options Outstanding                   Options Exercisable
                                        ----------------------------------------    ----------------------------
                                                        Weighted     Weighted                        Weighted
                                                        Average       Average                         Average
                                         December 31,   Remaining    Exercise        December 31,    Exercise
                                             1998          Life        Price             1998          Price
                                             ----          ----        -----             ----          -----
                                        (In thousands)   (Years)                    (In thousands)
                                        
Under $10.00                            21,808             5.76      $  6.59           18,775        $  6.08
$10.00 - $23.63                          7,760             6.66        17.99            7,113          18.02
$23.63 and above                         4,869             8.65        24.12            3,268          24.06











                                       62





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


9. ACQUISITIONS

The Company  evaluates each of its  acquisitions  independently to determine the
appropriate  amortization  period  for the cost in excess of net asset  value of
purchased  facilities.  Each  evaluation  includes an  analysis of historic  and
projected  financial  performance,  evaluation of the estimated  useful lives of
buildings and fixed assets  acquired,  the indefinite  lives of  certificates of
need and licenses acquired,  the competition  within local markets,  lease terms
where applicable, and the legal term of partnerships where applicable.

1996 ACQUISITIONS

At various dates during 1996, the Company acquired 80 outpatient  rehabilitation
facilities, 19 outpatient surgery centers, one inpatient rehabilitation hospital
and  one  diagnostic  imaging  center.  The  acquired   operations  are  located
throughout  the  United  States.  The  total  purchase  price  of  the  acquired
operations   was   approximately   $122,264,000.   The  form  of   consideration
constituting  the total purchase prices was  approximately  $110,262,000 in cash
and $12,002,000 in notes payable.

In  connection  with these  transactions,  the Company  entered into  noncompete
agreements with former owners totaling $11,900,000. In general, these noncompete
agreements are payable in monthly or quarterly installments over periods ranging
from five to ten years.

The  fair  value of the  total  net  assets  relating  to the 1996  acquisitions
described  above  was  approximately  $42,459,000.  The  total  cost of the 1996
acquisitions exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired by approximately
$79,805,000.  Based on the evaluation of each acquisition utilizing the criteria
described  above,  the Company  determined  that the cost in excess of net asset
value of  purchased  facilities  relating  to the 1996  acquisitions  should  be
amortized over periods ranging from 25 to 40 years on a straight-line  basis. No
other identifiable intangible assets were recorded in the acquisitions described
above.

All of the 1996  acquisitions  described  above were  accounted for as purchases
and,  accordingly,  the results of  operations of the acquired  businesses  (not
material  individually  or in the  aggregate)  are included in the  accompanying
consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition.




                                       63



                                       



                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


9. ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

1997 ACQUISITIONS

Effective  October  29,  1997,  the  Company  acquired  Horizon/CMS   Healthcare
Corporation   ("Horizon/CMS")   in  a   stock-for-stock   merger  in  which  the
stockholders of Horizon/CMS  received 0.84338 of a share of the Company's common
stock per share of  Horizon/CMS  common stock.  At the time of the  acquisition,
Horizon/CMS operated 30 inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and approximately 275
outpatient  rehabilitation centers, among other strategic businesses, as well as
certain  long-term  care  businesses.  In the  transaction,  the Company  issued
approximately  45,261,000  shares of its common stock,  valued at  $975,824,000,
exchanged  options  to  acquire  3,313,000  shares  of common  stock,  valued at
$23,191,000, and assumed approximately $740,000,000 in long-term debt.

Effective  December 31, 1997, the Company sold certain  non-strategic  assets of
Horizon/CMS to Integrated Health Services,  Inc. ("IHS"). Under the terms of the
sale, the Company sold 139 long-term care facilities, 12 specialty hospitals, 35
institutional pharmacy locations and over 1,000 rehabilitation therapy contracts
with long-term care  facilities.  The  transaction  was valued at  approximately
$1,224,000,000,  including the payment by IHS of approximately $1,130,000,000 in
cash (net of certain  adjustments)  and the  assumption by IHS of  approximately
$94,000,000 in debt.

In  accordance  with  Emerging  Issues Task Force Issue  87-11,  "Allocation  of
Purchase Price to Assets to be Sold" ("EITF  87-11"),  the results of operations
of the  non-strategic  assets sold to IHS from the acquisition  date to December
31,  1997,  including  a net loss of  $7,376,000,  have been  excluded  from the
Company's results of operations in the accompanying  financial  statements.  The
gain on the  disposition of the assets sold to IHS,  totaling  $10,996,000,  has
been accounted for as an adjustment to the original  Horizon/CMS  purchase price
allocation.

The Company also planned to sell the physician  and allied  health  professional
placement  service  business  it acquired in the  Horizon/CMS  acquisition  (the
"Physician Placement Services  Subsidiary").  This sale was completed during the
fourth quarter of 1998. Accordingly, a portion of the Horizon/CMS purchase price
was allocated to the Physician Placement Services Subsidiary and this amount was
classified  as  assets  held  for sale in the  accompanying  December  31,  1997
consolidated balance sheet. The allocated amount of $60,400,000  represented the
net assets of the Physician Placement Services Subsidiary, plus anticipated cash
flows from (a) operations of the Physician  Placement Services Subsidiary during
the holding  period and (b) proceeds  from the sale of the  Physician  Placement
Services Subsidiary. The actual net proceeds realized by the






                                       64




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


9. ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

Company  upon  the  sale of the  Physician  Placement  Services  Subsidiary  was
approximately $34,100,000.  The difference between the original amount allocated
and the net proceeds  realized by the Company has been  accounted for in 1998 as
an adjustment  to the  Horizon/CMS  purchase  price  allocation.  The results of
operations of the Physician  Placement Services  Subsidiary from the Horizon/CMS
acquisition date to December 31, 1998, including a net loss of $10,065,000, have
been  excluded from the  Company's  results of  operations  in the  accompanying
financial statement in accordance with EITF 87-11.

In connection with the sale of the Physician Placement Services Subsidiary,  the
Company  also  sold its  physical  therapy  staffing  business,  which  had been
acquired by the Company as part of a larger  strategic  acquisition in 1994. The
loss on the sale of the physical therapy  staffing  business was $31,232,000 and
was recorded by the Company in the fourth quarter of 1998.

Effective  September  30, 1997,  the Company  acquired  ASC Network  Corporation
("ASC") in a cash-for-stock merger. At the time of the acquisition, ASC operated
29 outpatient  surgery centers in eight states. The total purchase price for ASC
was  approximately  $130,827,000 in cash,  plus the assumption of  approximately
$61,000,000 in long-term debt.

Effective  October 23, 1997, the Company acquired  National Imaging  Affiliates,
Inc. ("NIA") in a stock-for-stock  merger.  At the time of the acquisition,  NIA
operated  eight  diagnostic  imaging  centers  in  six  states  and a  radiology
management services business. In conjunction with the transaction,  NIA spun off
its radiology  management services business,  which continues to be owned by the
former NIA stockholders.  In the transaction,  the Company issued  approximately
984,000 shares of its common stock,  valued at $20,706,000,  in exchange for all
of the outstanding shares of NIA.

At various  dates and in  separate  transactions  throughout  1997,  the Company
acquired  135  outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  ten  outpatient  surgery
centers and eight diagnostic  imaging  facilities  located throughout the United
States. The Company also acquired an inpatient  rehabilitation  hospital located
in  Australia.   The  total  purchase  price  of  the  acquired  operations  was
approximately  $179,749,000.  The form of  consideration  constituting the total
purchase prices was  $173,519,000  in cash,  $2,674,000 in notes payable and the
issuance of approximately  235,000 shares of the Company's common stock,  valued
at $3,521,000.

In  connection  with these  transactions,  the Company  entered into  noncompete
agreements with former owners totaling $29,275,000. In general, these noncompete
agreements are payable in monthly or quarterly installments over periods ranging
from five to ten years.






                                       65



                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

9. ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

As of December 31, 1997,  the Company had  estimated the fair value of the total
net assets relating to the 1997 acquisitions described above to be approximately
$237,369,000.  During 1998,  the Company made certain  adjustments to reduce the
fair value of the Horizon/CMS net assets acquired by approximately $136,065,000.
These  adjustments  relate  primarily  to the  valuation  of accounts  and notes
receivable  acquired,  the  valuation of fixed assets  acquired,  final  working
capital  settlements with IHS and the payment of pre-acquisition  liabilities in
excess of amounts  accrued in the  original  purchase  price  allocation.  After
considering the effects of the  adjustments  recorded in 1998, the total cost of
the 1997  acquisitions  exceeded  the fair value of the net assets  acquired  by
approximately  $1,228,993,000.  Based  on the  evaluation  of  each  acquisition
utilizing the criteria  described above, the Company determined that the cost in
excess  of net  asset  value  of  purchased  facilities  relating  to  the  1997
acquisitions  should  be  amortized  over  a  period  of  25 to  40  years  on a
straight-line basis.

All of the 1997  acquisitions  described  above were  accounted for as purchases
and,  accordingly,  the results of  operations  of the acquired  businesses  are
included  in the  accompanying  consolidated  financial  statements  from  their
respective dates of acquisition.  With the exception of the operations  acquired
in the  Horizon/CMS  acquisition  (for which pro forma  data has been  disclosed
above),  the results of operations of the acquired  businesses were not material
individually  or in the  aggregate  to the  Company's  consolidated  results  of
operations and financial position.

1998 ACQUISITIONS

Effective  July  1,  1998,   the  Company   acquired   Columbia/HCA   Healthcare
Corporation's  interests in 33 ambulatory  surgery  centers  (subject to certain
outstanding  consents and approvals with respect to three of the centers,  as to
which the parties entered into management agreements) in a transaction accounted
for as a purchase.  Effective  July 31, 1998,  the Company  entered into certain
other  arrangements  to acquire  substantially  all of the  economic  benefit of
Columbia/HCA's  interests  in one  additional  ambulatory  surgery  center.  The
purchase price was approximately $550,402,000 in cash.

At various  dates and in  separate  transactions  throughout  1998,  the Company
acquired 112  outpatient  rehabilitation  facilities,  four  outpatient  surgery
centers,  one  inpatient  rehabilitation  hospital  and  27  diagnostic  imaging
centers.  The acquired  operations are located throughout the United States. The
total purchase price of the acquired operations was approximately  $216,305,000.
The  form  of   consideration   constituting   the  total  purchase  prices  was
approximately  $179,038,000  in cash and  $17,870,000  in notes  payable and the
issuance of approximately  699,000 shares of the Company's common stock,  valued
at $19,397,000.







                                       66





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

9. ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

In  connection  with these  transactions,  the Company  entered into  noncompete
agreements with former owners totaling $25,926,000. In general, these noncompete
agreements are payable in monthly or quarterly installments over periods ranging
from five to ten years.

The  fair  value of the  total  net  assets  relating  to the 1998  acquisitions
described  above  was  approximately  $15,570,000.  The  total  cost of the 1998
acquisitions exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired by approximately
$751,137,000. Based on the evaluation of each acquisition utilizing the criteria
described  above,  the Company  determined  that the cost in excess of net asset
value of  purchased  facilities  relating  to the 1998  acquisitions  should  be
amortized over periods ranging from 25 to 40 years on a straight-line  basis. No
other identifiable intangible assets were recorded in the acquisitions described
above. At December 31, 1998, the purchase price  allocation  associated with the
1998  acquisitions  is preliminary in nature.  During 1999 the Company will make
adjustments,  if necessary,  to the purchase price allocation based on revisions
to the fair value of the assets acquired.

All of the 1998  acquisitions  described  above were  accounted for as purchases
and,  accordingly,  the results of  operations of the acquired  businesses  (not
material  individually  or in the  aggregate)  are included in the  accompanying
consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition.

10.  INCOME TAXES

HEALTHSOUTH and its subsidiaries file a consolidated  federal income tax return.
The limited  partnerships and limited  liability  companies file separate income
tax returns.  HEALTHSOUTH's  allocable portion of each  partnership's  income or
loss is included in the taxable income of the Company.  The remaining  income or
loss of each  partnership  and limited  liability  company is  allocated  to the
limited partners.






                                       67




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



10. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)

The Company  utilizes the liability  method of accounting  for income taxes,  as
required by Financial  Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 109, "Accounting
for Income  Taxes".  Deferred  income taxes reflect the net effects of temporary
differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial
reporting  purposes  and the amounts used for income tax  purposes.  Significant
components of the Company's  deferred tax assets and  liabilities as of December
31, 1997 are as follows:



                                                                                 


                                                  CURRENT            NONCURRENT            TOTAL
                                            ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                               (In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
  Accruals                                   $   19,564              $       -             $  19,564
  Net operating loss                                  -                 11,334                11,334
  Other                                               -                  4,618                 4,618
                                            ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Total deferred tax assets                        19,564                 15,952                35,516
Deferred tax liabilities:
  Depreciation and amortization                       -                 91,485                91,485
  Capitalized costs                               9,038                      -                 9,038
  Allowance for bad debts                        40,520                      -                40,520
  Other                                           4,351                      -                 4,351
                                            ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Total deferred tax liabilities                   53,909                 91,485               145,394
                                            ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Net deferred tax liabilities                 $  (34,345)             $ (75,533)           $ (109,878)
                                            =================== =================== ===================






                                       68




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries
            
             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)




10.  INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)

Significant  components of the Company's  deferred tax assets and liabilities as
of December 31, 1998 are as follows:




                                                                           

                                               CURRENT            NONCURRENT            TOTAL
                                          ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
                                                                (In thousands)

Deferred tax assets:
 Net operating loss                        $        -            $      3,504              $   3,504
 Accruals                                      19,482                       -                 19,482
 Impairment & restructuring charges                 -                 136,470                136,470
                                          ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Total deferred tax assets                      19,482                 139,974                159,456
Deferred tax liabilities:
 Depreciation and amortization                      -                 (90,753)               (90,753)
 Bad debts                                    (53,642)                      -                (53,642)
 Capitalized costs                                  -                 (78,077)               (78,077)
 Other                                         (3,452)                      -                 (3,452)
                                          ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Total deferred tax liabilities                (57,094)               (168,830)              (225,924)
                                          ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Net deferred tax liabilities               $  (37,612)           $    (28,856)             $ (66,468)
                                          =================== =================== ===================


At December  31,  1998,  the Company has net  operating  loss  carryforwards  of
approximately $9,829,000 for income tax purposes expiring through the year 2017.
Those  carryforwards  resulted  from the  Company's  acquisitions  of Diagnostic
Health Corporation,  Renaissance  Rehabilitation  Center,  Inc., Rebound,  Inc.,
Health Images and Horizon/CMS.

The provision for income taxes was as follows:





                                                                 
                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                           -----------------------------------------------------------------
                               1996                     1997                  1998
                           --------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
                                                    (In thousands)
Currently payable:
     Federal                $  118,448           $   171,029              $  162,433
     State                      14,279                27,402                  24,324
                           --------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
                               132,727               198,431                 186,757
Deferred expense :
     Federal                    14,742                13,186                 (37,756)
     State                       1,076                 2,051                  (5,654)
                           --------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
                                15,818                15,237                 (43,410)
                           --------------------- --------------------- ---------------------
                            $  148,545            $  213,668              $  143,347
                           ===================== ===================== =====================






                                       69






                     HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


10. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)

The difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by
applying the  statutory  federal  income tax rate to income  before taxes was as
follows:



                                                                            


                                                               YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                              --------------------------------------------------------
                                                  1996                 1997                  1998
                                              -----------------  -----------------  ------------------
                                                                 (In thousands)

Federal taxes at statutory rates             $ 139,764          $  220,219             $  93,581
Add (deduct):
  State income taxes, net of federal tax
      benefit                                    9,981              19,144                12,136
  Minority interests                           (18,901)            (25,364)              (27,114)
  Nondeductible goodwill                             -                   -                 7,630
  Disposal/impairment charges                    6,563               1,576                57,873
  Other                                         11,138              (1,907)                 (759)
                                            -----------------   ------------------ ------------------
                                             $ 148,545          $  213,668             $ 143,347
                                            =================   ================== ==================





11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The Company is a party to legal proceedings  incidental to its business.  In the
opinion of management, any ultimate liability with respect to these actions will
not  materially  affect  the  consolidated  financial  position  or  results  of
operations of the Company.

Beginning  December 1, 1993, the Company became  self-insured  for  professional
liability and comprehensive  general  liability.  The Company purchased coverage
for all claims  incurred  prior to December 1, 1993.  In  addition,  the Company
purchased  underlying  insurance  which would cover all claims once  established
limits have been exceeded.  It is the opinion of management that at December 31,
1998  the  Company  has  adequate  reserves  to cover  losses  on  asserted  and
unasserted claims.

Prior to  consummation  of the SCA and  Advantage  Health  mergers (see Note 2),
these  companies   carried   professional   malpractice  and  general  liability
insurance. The policies were carried on a





                                       70




                     HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

claims  made basis.  The  companies  had  policies in place to track and monitor
incidents of  significance.  Management is unaware of any claims that may result
in a loss in excess of amounts covered by existing insurance.

In  connection   with  the   Horizon/CMS   acquisition,   the  Company   assumed
Horizon/CMS's  open professional and general  liability claims.  The Company has
entered into an agreement with an insurance carrier to assume responsibility for
the  majority  of open  claims.  Under this  agreement,  a "risk  transfer"  was
conducted  which  converted   Horizon/CMS's   self-insured   claims  to  insured
liabilities consistent with the terms of the underlying insurance policy.

Horizon/CMS is currently a party, or is subject,  to certain  litigation matters
and disputes. The Company itself is, in general, not a party to such litigation.
These matters include actions on investigations  initiated by the Securities and
Exchange  Commission,  New  York  Stock  Exchange,  various  federal  and  state
regulatory  agencies,  stockholders  of  Horizon/CMS  and  other  parties.  Both
Horizon/CMS and the Company are working to resolve these matters and cooperating
fully with the various regulatory agencies involved. As of December 31, 1998, it
was not possible  for the Company to predict the  ultimate  outcome or effect of
these matters. In management's opinion, the ultimate resolution of these matters
will  not  have a  material  effect  on  the  Company's  consolidated  financial
position.

The Company has been served with certain lawsuits filed beginning  September 30,
1998, which purport to be class actions under the federal and Alabama securities
laws.  Such lawsuits were filed following a decline in the Company's stock price
at the end of the third quarter of 1998. Seven such suits have been filed in the
United States  District Court for the Northern  District of Alabama,  comprising
substantially  identical complaints filed against the Company and certain of its
officers and directors  alleging that, during the period August 12, 1997 through
September 30, 1998, the defendants  misrepresented or failed to disclose certain
material  facts  concerning  the Company's  business and financial  condition in
order to artificially inflate the price of the Company's Common Stock and issued
or sold shares of such stock during the purported class period, all allegedly in
violation of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5
thereunder.  Certain  of the named  plaintiffs  in some of the  complaints  also
purport to represent separate  subclasses  consisting of former  stockholders of
corporations acquired by the Company in 1997 and 1998 who received shares of the
Company's  Common  Stock in  connection  with such  acquisitions  and who assert
additional  claims under  Section 11 of the  Securities  Act of 1933. In January
1999,  these  complaints  were ordered to be  consolidated,  with a consolidated
amended  complaint  due to be  filed  by  April 5,  1999.






                                       71




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

Additionally,  another  suit has been filed in the  Circuit  Court of  Jefferson
County,  Alabama,  purportedly as a derivative  action on behalf of the Company.
This suit largely replicates the allegations of the federal actions described in
the preceding  paragraph and alleges that the current  directors of the Company,
certain  former  directors and certain  officers of the Company  breached  their
fiduciary duties to the Company and engaged in other allegedly tortious conduct.
The  plaintiff  in that case has  forborne  pursuing  its claim thus far pending
further  progress  in the  federal  actions,  and the  Company  has not yet been
required to file a responsive pleading in the case. Another non-derivative state
court action was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff, without prejudice.

The  Company  believes  that all claims  asserted in the above suits are without
merit, and expects to vigorously defend against such claims.  Because such suits
have only recently  been filed,  the Company  cannot  predict the outcome of any
such suits or the  magnitude of any potential  loss if the Company's  defense is
unsuccessful.

At December 31, 1998,  committed capital expenditures for the next twelve months
are $27,458,000.

Operating leases generally  consist of short-term lease agreements for buildings
where facilities are located. These leases generally have 5-year terms, with one
or more renewal  options,  with terms to be  negotiated  at the time of renewal.
Total rental expense for all operating leases was $138,098,000, $167,749,000 and
$238,937,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.





                                       72





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

The following is a schedule of future minimum lease payments under all operating
leases having initial or remaining  non-cancelable  lease terms in excess of one
year:

YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,                      (IN THOUSANDS)
- - - ----------------------------                ---------------------

1999                                           $  199,903
2000                                              171,245
2001                                              142,874
2002                                              110,545 
2003                                               85,697
After 2003                                        285,008
                                            --------------------
Total minimum payments required                $  995,272
                                            ====================

12.  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The  Company  has a 401(k)  savings  plan which  matches  15% of the first 4% of
earnings  that an employee  contributes.  All  contributions  are in the form of
cash.  All  employees  who have  completed one year of service with a minimum of
1,000  hours  worked  are  eligible  to   participate   in  the  plan.   Company
contributions   are  gradually   vested  over  a  seven-year   service   period.
Contributions  to  the  plan  by  the  Company  were  approximately  $2,420,000,
$2,628,000 and $4,121,000 in 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.

In 1991, the Company  established an Employee Stock  Ownership Plan ("ESOP") for
the  purpose  of  providing  substantially  all  employees  of the  Company  the
opportunity to save for their  retirement and acquire a proprietary  interest in
the Company.  The ESOP  currently  owns  approximately  3,320,000  shares of the
Company's  common  stock,  which were  purchased  with funds  borrowed  from the
Company, $10,000,000 in 1991 (the "1991 ESOP Loan") and $10,000,000 in 1992 (the
"1992 ESOP Loan").  At December 31, 1997,  the combined ESOP Loans had a balance
of  $12,247,000.  The 1991 ESOP Loan,  which bears an  interest  rate of 10%, is
payable in annual  installments  covering interest and principal over a ten-year
period  beginning in 1992.  The 1992 ESOP Loan,  which bears an interest rate of
8.5%, is payable in annual  installments  covering interest and principal over a
ten-year period  beginning in 1993.  Company  contributions to the ESOP began in
1992  and  shall  at least  equal  the  amount  required  to make all ESOP  loan
amortization  payments for each plan year. The Company  recognizes  compensation
expense based on the shares allocated  method.  Compensation  expense related to
the ESOP recognized by the Company was $3,198,000,  $3,249,000 and $3,195,000 in
1996,





                                       73




                     HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)



12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (CONTINUED)

1997  and  1998,   respectively.   Interest  incurred  on  the  ESOP  Loans  was
approximately  $1,298,000,  $1,121,000  and  $927,000  in 1996,  1997 and  1998,
respectively.  Approximately  1,875,000  shares  owned  by the  ESOP  have  been
allocated to participants at December 31, 1998.

During 1993,  the American  Institute of  Certified  Public  Accountants  issued
Statement of Position 93-6,  "Employers  Accounting for Employee Stock Ownership
Plans" ("SOP 93-6"). Among other provisions, SOP 93-6 requires that compensation
expense relating to employee stock ownership plans be measured based on the fair
market value of the shares when  allocated to the  employees.  The provisions of
SOP 93-6 apply only to leveraged ESOPs formed after December 31, 1992, or shares
newly acquired by an existing  leveraged  ESOP after December 31, 1992.  Because
all shares owned by the Company's ESOP were acquired prior to December 31, 1992,
the Company's accounting policies for the shares currently owned by the ESOP are
not affected by SOP 93-6.

13.  IMPAIRMENT AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

In 1996,  the  Company  recorded  an asset  impairment  charge of  approximately
$37,390,000  relating to tangible assets  identifiable  with the development and
manufacture  of  the  HI  Standard  and  HI  STAR  MRI  systems.   Approximately
$28,665,000 of this charge related to the  development and manufacture of the HI
STAR MRI system, while the remaining charge of $8,725,000 related to HI Standard
MRI systems already in service.

During the fourth  quarter of 1996 the Company  performed an  evaluation  of the
viability of continued  development  and  manufacture,  and the continued use of
mid-field HI Standard and HI STAR MRI systems. The Company's evaluation revealed
that  due to  improvements  in  technology,  high-field  MRI  systems  could  be
purchased  at  significantly  lower  costs  than  the  production  costs  of the
Company's  mid-field  MRI  systems.  Additionally,  it  was  noted  that  future
maintenance costs of the high-field MRI systems were significantly less than the
cost  currently  being  incurred for  maintenance  of the  internally  developed
mid-field  MRI  systems.  Based on these  facts and  circumstances,  the Company
determined  that there was a  significant  decrease  in the market  value of the
related  assets.  Accordingly,  the  Company  decided to cease  development  and
manufacture of the HI STAR MRI system and developed a plan to replace all of its
HI Standard MRI systems  during the  following  eighteen  months.  Since the MRI
system was not fully  developed,  the  Company has not been able to find a buyer
for any of the  assets,  nor are  there any  alternative  uses.  Therefore,  the
Company has assigned no fair value at December 31, 1996 to the assets related to
the development and manufacture of the HI STAR MRI system.





                                       74





                     HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries

             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

13.  IMPAIRMENT AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES (CONTINUED)

During  the  third  quarter  of  1998,  the  Company  recorded   impairment  and
restructuring  charges of  approximately  $72,000,000  related to the  Company's
decision to dispose of or otherwise  discontinue  substantially  all of its home
health  operations.  The  decision  was  prompted in large part by the  negative
impact of the 1997 Balanced  Budget Act,  which placed  reimbursement  limits on
home health businesses.  The limits were announced in March 1998 and the Company
began  to see  the  adverse  affect  on  home  health  margins.  Based  on  this
unfavorable trend, management prepared a plan to exit the home health operations
described  above.  The plan was  approved by the Board of Directors on September
16, 1998. Revenues and income before income taxes and minority interests for the
home health operations were $71,163,000 and $(4,261,000), respectively. The home
health  operations  have been  included  in the  inpatient  and  other  clinical
services segment.





                                       75



                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries
            
             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

13. IMPAIRMENT AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES (CONTINUED)

The Company has  developed a strategic  plan to provide  integrated  services in
major markets  throughout the United States.  In the fourth quarter of 1998, the
Company  recorded a  restructuring  charge of  approximately  $404,000,000  as a
result of its  decision  to close  certain  facilities  that do not fit with the
Company's  strategic  vision,  underperforming  facilities  and  facilities  not
located in target markets. The identified facilities contributed $140,087,000 to
the Company's  revenue and  $(9,907,000)  to the Company's  income before income
taxes and minority interests during 1998.

The home health operations covered by the plan were closed by December 31, 1998.
At March 12, 1999,  approximately 73% of the locations  identified in the fourth
quarter  restructuring  plan had been  closed.  The Company  expects the actions
associated  with  the  fourth  quarter  restructuring  plan to be  substantially
completed  during the first half of 1999.  Assets that are no longer in use were
abandoned or written  down to their fair value and either have been  disposed of
or are being held for sale.

The total number of employees  terminated in conjunction with the  restructuring
plans was 7,900, with 7,879 having left the Company as of December 31, 1998. The
remaining employees will leave the Company during the first half of 1999.

The  restructuring  activities (shown below in tabular form) primarily relate to
asset   write-downs,   lease   abandonments   and   the   elimination   of   job
responsibilities resulting in costs incurred to sever employees.

Details of the impairment and restructuring charges are as follows:




                                          RESTRUCTURING                            BALANCE AT 
         DESCRIPTION                          CHARGE              ACTIVITY           12/31/98  
- - - -----------------------------------    --------------------- ----------------- --------------------
                                                      (In thousands)
                                                                                    
Impairment of assets:
  Property, plant and equipment             $  146,243             $  126,863        $    19,380
  Intangible assets                            221,129                221,129                  -
Lease abandonment costs                         52,094                  2,618             49,476
Other assets                                    24,765                 24,765                  -
Severance packages                               6,027                  4,753              1,274
Other incremental costs                         25,524                  9,120             16,404
                                       ---------------------- ----------------- --------------------
                                           $   475,782             $  389,248        $    86,534
                                       ====================== ================= ====================




Of the remaining balance at December 31, 1998, $19,380,000 is included as assets
held for sale and the  remaining  $67,154,000  is included  in accrued  interest
payable and other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.






                                       76





                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries
            
             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)




13. IMPAIRMENT AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES (CONTINUED)

In  addition,  the  Company  recorded  an  impairment  charge  of  approximately
$8,000,000  related to a rehabilitation  hospital it had closed.  The write-down
was based on a recently obtained independent appraisal.

The Company intends to abandon certain equipment and to sell certain  properties
and equipment associated with the closed facilities. The fair value of assets to
be sold is approximately $27,000,000. The Company expects to have all properties
sold by the end of 1999. The effect of suspending depreciation is immaterial.

For assets that will not be abandoned, the fair values were based on independent
appraisals  or  estimates  of  recoverability   for  similar   closings.   Lease
abandonment  costs were based on the lease terms  remaining.  Other  incremental
costs consist primarily of costs to close the facilities,  refurbish  facilities
in accordance with lease requirements, security, legal and similar costs.

14. OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Company adopted SFAS 131 in 1998. Prior years' information has been restated
to present information for the Company's two business segments described in Note
1.

The  accounting  policies of the  segments are the same as those for the Company
described in Note 1, Significant Accounting Policies.  Intrasegment revenues are
not  significant.  The Company's  Chief  Operating  Decision Maker evaluates the
performance  of its  segments  and  allocates  resources to them based on income
before minority interests and income taxes and earnings before interest,  income
taxes,  depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA").  In addition,  certain revenue
producing  functions are managed  directly from the Corporate office and are not
included in  operating  results for  management  reporting.  Unallocated  assets
represent  those  assets  under  the  direct   management  of  Corporate  office
personnel.






                                       77




                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries
            
             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)


14. OPERATING SEGMENTS (CONTINUED)

Operating  results and other  financial  data are  presented  for the  principal
operating segments as follows:


                                                                                
                                                               YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    1996                 1997                1998
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    (In thousands)

Revenues:
  Inpatient and other clinical services         $ 1,405,877        $   1,624,848         $ 1,909,462
  Outpatient services                             1,207,611            1,467,005           2,042,952
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  2,613,488            3,091,853           3,952,414
  Unallocated corporate office                       34,700               31,323              53,660
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated revenues                           $ 2,648,188        $   3,123,176         $ 4,006,074
                                            ===============================================================
Income before income taxes and minority
    interests:
  Inpatient and other clinical services         $   251,798        $     356,978         $   168,503
  Outpatient services                               240,618              420,567             331,790
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    492,416              777,545             500,293
  Unallocated corporate office                      (93,090)            (148,349)           (232,920)
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated income before income taxes and                                           
minority interests                              $   399,326        $     629,196         $   267,373
                                            ===============================================================
Depreciation and amortization:                 
  Inpatient and other clinical services         $    76,225        $      78,208         $    90,251
  Outpatient services                               100,091              120,867             164,409
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    176,316              199,075             254,660
  Unallocated corporate office                       36,651               58,061              89,931
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated depreciation and                                                         
   amortization                                 $   212,967        $     257,136         $   344,591
                                            ===============================================================
Interest expense:                              
  Inpatient and other clinical services         $    65,439        $      68,393         $    68,600
  Outpatient services                                10,068                3,731               2,176
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     75,507               72,124             70,776
  Unallocated corporate office                       25,860               40,405              77,387
                                            ---------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated interest expense                   $   101,367        $     112,529         $   148,163
                                            ===============================================================
                                               






                                       78







                    HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Subsidiaries
            
             Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)





                                                                               

                                                                 YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,

                                                    1996                 1997                1998
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    (In thousands)

Interest income:
  Inpatient and other clinical services      $      187         $      1,153       $      4,399
  Outpatient services                             1,816                3,879              4,145
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                  2,003                5,032              8,544
  Unallocated corporate office                    4,746                  972              2,742
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated interest income                 $    6,749         $      6,004       $     11,286
                                            =============================================================
EBITDA:
  Inpatient and other clinical services      $  393,275         $    502,426       $    322,955
  Outpatient services                           348,961              541,286            494,230
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                742,236            1,043,712            817,185
  Unallocated corporate office                  (35,325)             (50,855)           (68,344)
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated EBITDA                          $  706,911         $    992,857       $    748,841
                                            =============================================================
Merger and acquisition related expenses,
  loss on sale of assets and impairment and
  restructuring charge:
     Inpatient and other clinical services   $        -         $          -       $    224,710
     Outpatient services                         78,905               15,875            303,979
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                 78,905               15,875            528,689
  Unallocated corporate office                        -                    -             11,628
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated merger and acquisition
 related expenses, loss on sale of assets
 and impairment and restructuring charge     $   78,905          $    15,875       $    540,317
                                            =============================================================
Assets:
  Inpatient and other clinical services                          $ 2,894,135      $   2,590,677
  Outpatient services                                              2,331,326          3,642,825
                                                                 ----------------------------------------
                                                                   5,225,461          6,233,502
  Unallocated corporate office                                       340,863            539,506
                                                                 ----------------------------------------
Total assets                                                     $ 5,566,324      $   6,773,008
                                                                 ========================================








                                       79



ITEM  9.  CHANGES  IN AND  DISAGREEMENTS  WITH  ACCOUNTANTS  ON  ACCOUNTING  AND
          FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

         The  Company  has not  changed  independent  accountants  within the 24
months prior to December 31, 1998.

                                    PART III

ITEM 10.          DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS.

DIRECTORS

          The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the
Company's Directors.



                                                            PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
                                                              AND ALL POSITIONS                     A DIRECTOR
          NAME                        AGE                     WITH THE COMPANY                         SINCE   
          ----                        ---                     ----------------                         -----   

                                                                                              
Richard M. Scrushy                    46                    Chairman of the Board                      1984
                                                         and Chief Executive Officer
                                                                and Director

James P. Bennett                      41            President and Chief Operating Officer              1993
                                                                and Director

Phillip C. Watkins, M.D.              57               Physician, Birmingham, Alabama,                 1984
                                                                and Director

George H. Strong                      72            Private Investor, Locust, New Jersey,              1984
                                                                and Director

C. Sage Givens                        42                      General Partner,                         1985
                                                           Acacia Venture Partners
                                                                and Director

Charles W. Newhall III                54                   Partner, New Enterprise                     1985
                                                      Associates Limited Partnerships,
                                                                and Director

Anthony J. Tanner                     50                 Executive Vice President--                    1993
                                                        Administration and Secretary
                                                                and Director

P. Daryl Brown                        44             President-- HEALTHSOUTH Outpatient                1995
                                                            Centers and Director





                                       80








                                                            PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
                                                              AND ALL POSITIONS                     A DIRECTOR
          NAME                        AGE                     WITH THE COMPANY                         SINCE   
          ----                        ---                     ----------------                         -----   

                                                                                              
John S. Chamberlin                    70                      Private Investor,                        1993
                                                           Princeton, New Jersey,
                                                                and Director

Joel C. Gordon                        69                    Chairman, Cardiology                       1996
                                                          Partners of America, Inc.
                                                          Consultant to the Company
                                                                and Director

Michael D. Martin                     38                  Executive Vice President                     1998
                                                         and Chief Financial Officer
                                                                and Director

Larry D. Striplin, Jr.                69            Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,              1999
                                                   Nelson-Brantley Glass Contractors, Inc.
                                                                and Director





                                       81


         Richard M.  Scrushy,  one of the  Company's  management  founders,  has
served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since
1984,   and also served as  President of the Company from 1984 until March 1995.
From 1979 to 1984, Mr. Scrushy was with Lifemark  Corporation,  a publicly-owned
healthcare corporation, serving in various operational and management positions.
Mr. Scrushy is also a director of MedPartners, Inc., a publicly-traded physician
practice management company,  for which he also served as Acting Chief Executive
Officer from January 16 through March 18, 1998 and as Chairman of the Board from
January 16 through  December 1, 1998. 

         Phillip  C.  Watkins,  M.D.,  FACC,  is and has been for more than five
years in the private practice of medicine in Birmingham,  Alabama. A graduate of
The Medical College of Alabama, Dr. Watkins is a Diplomate of the American Board
of Internal Medicine.  He is also a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology
and the Subspecialty Board of Cardiovascular Disease.

         George H. Strong retired as senior vice  president and chief  financial
officer of Universal Health Services,  Inc. in December 1984, a position he held
for more than six years.  Mr. Strong is a private  investor and continued to act
as a director of Universal Health  Services,  Inc., a  publicly-traded  hospital
management  corporation,  until 1993.  Mr. Strong is also a director of Balanced
Care  Corporation and Integrated  Health  Services,  Inc., both  publicly-traded
healthcare corporations, and AmeriSource, Inc., a large drug wholesaler.

         C. Sage  Givens is a general  partner  of Acacia  Venture  Partners,  a
private venture capital fund  capitalized at $66,000,000.  From 1983 to June 30,
1995,  Ms.  Givens was a general  partner of First Century  Partners,  a private
venture capital fund capitalized at $100,000,000.  Ms. Givens managed the fund's
healthcare  investments.  Ms. Givens serves on the board of directors of PhyCor,
Inc., a  publicly-traded  healthcare  corporation,   and several  privately-held
healthcare companies.

         Charles  W.  Newhall  III  is a  general  partner  and  founder  of New
Enterprise Associates Limited Partnerships,  Baltimore,  Maryland,  where he has
been engaged in the venture  capital  business since 1978. Mr. Newhall is also a
director of Integrated Health Services,  Inc.,  MedPartners,  Inc. and Opta Food
Ingredients, Inc., all of which are publicly-traded corporations.

         James  P.  Bennett  joined  the  Company  in May  1991 as  Director  of
Inpatient  Operations,  was  promoted  to  Group  Vice  President  --  Inpatient
Rehabilitation  Operations  in  September  1991,  again to  President  and Chief
Operating  Officer --  HEALTHSOUTH  Rehabilitation  Hospitals  in June 1992,  to
President -- HEALTHSOUTH Inpatient Operations in February 1993, and to President
and Chief  Operating  Officer of the  Company in March  1995.  Mr.  Bennett  was
elected a Director in February  1993.  From August 1987 to May 1991, Mr. Bennett
was  employed  by  Russ  Pharmaceuticals,  Inc.,  Birmingham,  Alabama,  as Vice
President -- Operations,  Chief Financial Officer,  Secretary and director.  Mr.
Bennett  served  as  certified  public  accountant  on the  audit  staff  of the
Birmingham,  Alabama  office of Ernst &  Whinney  (now  Ernst & Young  LLP) from
October 1980 to August 1987.

         Anthony J. Tanner,  Sc.D.,  a management  founder,  serves as Executive
Vice President -- Administration  and Secretary of the Company and was elected a
Director in  February  1993.  From 1980 to 1984,  Mr.  Tanner was with  Lifemark
Corporation  in  the  Shared  Services   Division  as  director,   clinical  and
professional programs (1982-1984) and director,  quality assurance and education
(1980-1982),  where he was responsible for the development of clinical  programs
and marketing programs.

         P. Daryl Brown  joined the Company in April 1986 and served  until June
1992 as Group Vice President -- Outpatient  Operations.  He became  President --
HEALTHSOUTH  Outpatient  Centers in June 1992,  and was elected as a Director in
March 1995.  From 1977 to 1986,  Mr.  Brown  served with the American Red Cross,
Alabama  Region,  in  several  positions,  including  Chief  Operating  Officer,
Administrative Director for Financing and Administration and Controller.

         John S.  Chamberlin  retired in 1988 as president  and chief  operating
officer of Avon  Products,  Inc.,  a position he had held since 1985.  From 1976
until  1985,  he  served  as  chairman  and chief  executive  officer  of Lenox,
Incorporated,  after 22 years in various assignments for General Electric.  From
1990 to 1991,  he served as chairman and chief  executive  officer of New Jersey
Publishing Co. Mr. Chamberlin is chairman of the board of Sports Holding Company
and WNS,  Inc., and is a director of Imagyn  Medical  Technologies  Inc. He is a
member of the Board of  Trustees  of the Medical  Center at  Princeton  and is a
trustee of the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation.

         Joel C. Gordon served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of SCA from
its  founding  in 1982 until  January  17,  1996,  when SCA was  acquired by the
Company.  Mr.  Gordon  also served as Chief  Executive  Officer of SCA from 1987
until  January  17,  1996.  Mr.  Gordon is Chairman  of  Cardiology  Partners of
America, Inc. and serves on the boards of directors of Genesco, Inc., an apparel
manufacturer, and SunTrust Bank of Nashville, N.A.




                                       82






         Michael D. Martin joined the Company in October 1989 as Vice  President
and  Treasurer,  and was named Senior Vice President -- Finance and Treasurer in
February 1994 and Executive Vice President -- Finance and Treasurer in May 1996.
In October  1997,  he was  additionally  named  Chief  Financial  Officer of the
Company,  and in March 1998,  he was named a Director of the  Company.  In March
1999, he ceased serving as Treasurer of the Company. From 1983 through September
1989,  Mr.  Martin  specialized  in  healthcare  lending with AmSouth Bank N.A.,
Birmingham,  Alabama, where he was a Vice President immediately prior to joining
the Company. Mr. Martin is a director of MedPartners, Inc.

         Larry D.  Striplin,  Jr.  has been the  Chairman  and  Chief  Executive
Officer of  Nelson-Brantley  Glass  Contractors,  Inc.  and  Chairman  and Chief
Executive  Officer of Clearview  Properties,  Inc. since  December  1995.  Until
December 1995, Mr.  Striplin had been Chairman of the Board and Chief  Executive
Officer  of  Circle  "S"  Industries,  Inc.,  a  privately  owned  bonding  wire
manufacturer.  Mr.  Striplin is a member of the boards of directors of Kulicke &
Suffa Industries,  Inc., a publicly traded manufacturer of electronic equipment,
The Banc Corporation and MedPartners, Inc.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

         The following table sets forth certain  information with respect to the
Company's executive officers.



                                                                ALL POSITIONS                       AN OFFICER
            NAME                      AGE                     WITH THE COMPANY                         SINCE      
            ----                      ---                     ----------------                         -----      

                                                                                                  
Richard M. Scrushy                    46                    Chairman of the Board                      1984
                                                       and Chief Executive Officer and
                                                                  Director

James P. Bennett                      41            President and Chief Operating Officer              1991
                                                                and Director

Anthony J. Tanner                     50          Executive Vice President-- Administration            1984
                                                         and Secretary and Director

Michael D. Martin                     38                  Executive Vice President                     1989
                                                         and Chief Financial Officer
                                                                and Director

Thomas W. Carman                      47                 Executive Vice President--                    1985
                                                            Corporate Development

P. Daryl Brown                        44                   President-- HEALTHSOUTH                     1986
                                                       Outpatient Centers and Director

Robert E. Thomson                     51                   President-- HEALTHSOUTH                     1987
                                                            Inpatient Operations

Patrick A. Foster                     52                  President-- HEALTHSOUTH                      1994
                                                               Surgery Centers

William T. Owens                      40               Group Senior Vice President--                   1986
                                                           Finance and Controller

William W. Horton                     39                  Senior Vice President and                    1994
                                                            Corporate Counsel and
                                                             Assistant Secretary






                                       83






         Biographical  information for Messrs. Scrushy,  Bennett,  Tanner, Brown
and Martin is set forth above under this Item, "Directors and Executive Officers
- - - -- Directors".

         Thomas W. Carman  joined the  Company in 1985 as  Regional  Director --
Corporate  Development,  and now serves as Executive Vice President -- Corporate
Development.  From 1983 to 1985,  Mr.  Carman was  director of  development  for
Medical  Care  International.  From  1981 to  1983,  Mr.  Carman  was  assistant
administrator at the Children's Hospital of Birmingham, Alabama.

         Robert E. Thomson joined the Company in August 1985 as administrator of
its Florence, South Carolina inpatient rehabilitation facility, and subsequently
served as Regional Vice  President -- Inpatient  Operations,  Vice  President --
Inpatient Operations,  Group Vice President -- Inpatient Operations,  and Senior
Vice  President  -- Inpatient  Operations.  Mr.  Thomson was named  President --
HEALTHSOUTH Inpatient Operations in February 1996.

         Patrick A. Foster  joined the  Company in February  1994 as Director of
Operations  and  subsequently  served  as  Group  Vice  President  --  Inpatient
Operations  and Senior Vice  President  --  Inpatient  Operations.  He was named
President -- HEALTHSOUTH Surgery Centers in October 1997. From August 1992 until
February 1994, he served as Senior Vice President of the  Rehabilitation/Medical
Division of The Mediplex Group.

         William  T.  Owens,  C.P.A.,  joined  the  Company  in  March  1986  as
Controller  and was appointed Vice President and Controller in December 1986. He
was appointed  Group Vice  President -- Finance and  Controller in June 1992 and
Senior Vice  President  -- Finance  and  Controller  in February  1994 and Group
Senior Vice President -- Finance and Controller in March 1998.  Prior to joining
the  Company,  Mr. Owens served as a certified  public  accountant  on the audit
staff of the  Birmingham,  Alabama  office of Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst & Young
LLP) from 1981 to 1986.

         William  W.  Horton  joined  the  Company  in July  1994 as Group  Vice
President -- Legal  Services and was named Senior Vice  President  and Corporate
Counsel in May 1996.  From August 1986 through June 1994,  Mr. Horton  practiced
corporate, securities and healthcare law with the Birmingham, Alabama-based firm
now known as Haskell Slaughter & Young,  L.L.C.,  where he served as Chairman of
the Healthcare Practice Group.

GENERAL

         Directors of the Company  hold office until the next Annual  Meeting of
Stockholders  of  the  Company  and  until  their  successors  are  elected  and
qualified.  Executive officers of the Company are elected annually by, and serve
at the  discretion  of the  Board of  Directors.  There are no  arrangements  or
understandings  known to the Company between any of the Directors,  nominees for
Director or executive  officers of the Company and any other person  pursuant to
which any of such  persons was elected as a Director  or an  executive  officer,
except the  Employment  Agreements  between the Company and Richard M.  Scrushy,
James P. Bennett,  Michael D. Martin, Anthony J. Tanner and P. Daryl Brown. (see
Item  11,  "Executive   Compensation  --  Chief  Executive  Officer   Employment
Agreement";  " -- Other Executive  Employment  Agreements")  and except that the
Company  initially  agreed to appoint Mr.  Gordon to the Board of  Directors  in
connection with the SCA merger.  There are no family  relationships  between any
Directors, nominees for Director or executive officers of the Company.

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

         Section  16(a) of the  Securities  Exchange  Act of 1934  requires  the
Company's officers and Directors, and persons who beneficially own more than 10%
of a registered  class of the Company's  equity  securities,  to file reports of
ownership and changes in ownership with the  Securities and Exchange  Commission
and the New York Stock Exchange.  Officers,  Directors and beneficial  owners of
more than 10% of the  Company's  Common  Stock are  required by  Securities  and
Exchange  Commission  regulations  to furnish  the  Company  with  copies of all
Section 16(a) forms that they file. Based solely on review of the copies of such
forms furnished to the Company,  or written  representations  that no reports on
Form 5 were required,  the Company  believes that for the period from January 1,
1998,   through   December  31,  1998,  all  of  its  officers,   Directors  and
greater-than-10%  beneficial  owners  complied  with all  Section  16(a)  filing
requirements applicable to them.





                                       84






ITEM 11.          EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION -- GENERAL

         The  following  table  sets forth  compensation  paid or awarded to the
Chief  Executive  Officer  and each of the other  four most  highly  compensated
executive  officers of the  Company  (the "Named  Executive  Officers")  for all
services rendered to the Company and its subsidiaries in 1996, 1997 and 1998.



                                            SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

                                           ANNUAL COMPENSATION            LONG-TERM COMPENSATION  
                                    ---------------------------------     -----------------------
                                                         BONUS/ANNUAL      STOCK       LONG-TERM          ALL
                                                           INCENTIVE      OPTION       INCENTIVE      OTHER COM-
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION         YEAR       SALARY       AWARD         AWARDS        PAYOUTS      PENSATION(1)
- - - ---------------------------         ----       ------       -----         ------        -------      ------------

                                                                                   
Richard M. Scrushy                  1996    $3,391,775   $ 8,000,000     1,500,000        ---         $  34,286 (2)
Chairman of the Board               1997     3,398,999    10,000,000     1,300,000        ---            21,430
and Chief Executive Officer(3)      1998     2,777,829           ---     1,500,000        ---            72,352

James P. Bennett                    1996       496,590       800,000       200,000        ---            32,106 (2)
President and Chief                 1997       639,161     1,500,000       700,000        ---            10,158
Operating Officer                   1998       670,000           ---       300,000        ---            10,092

Michael D. Martin                   1996       281,644       750,000       120,000        ---            31,586 (2)
Executive Vice President            1997       359,672     2,000,000       450,000        ---             9,700
and Chief Financial Officer         1998       415,826           ---       260,000                        9,665

P. Daryl Brown                      1996       335,825       400,000       100,000        ---            11,181
President-- HEALTHSOUTH             1997       370,673       450,000       250,000        ---            10,737
Outpatient Centers                  1998       386,212           ---        75,000        ---            10,981

Anthony J. Tanner                   1996       298,078       350,000       100,000        ---             7,763
Executive Vice President--          1997       371,114       450,000       450,000        ---             9,817
Administration and Secretary        1998       388,422           ---       250,000        ---            11,197


- - - --------------------
(1)      Includes car  allowances of $500 per month for Mr. Scrushy and $350 per
         month for the other Named Executive Officers in 1996 and 1997, use of a
         Company-owned  automobile by Mr. Scrushy in 1998, and car allowances of
         $500 per month for Mr.  Scrushy  and $450 per month for the other Named
         Executive  Officers through  September 1998. Also includes (a) matching
         contributions under the Company's Retirement  Investment Plan for 1996,
         1997 and 1998, respectively,  of: $708, $791 and $1,450 to Mr. Scrushy;
         $1,425, $1,425 and $1,499 to Mr. Bennett;  $1,371, $1,324 and $1,395 to
         Mr. Martin;  $1,897 $1,319 and $1,415 to Mr. Brown; and $1,290,  $1,215
         and $1,308 to Mr. Tanner; (b) awards under the Company's Employee Stock
         Benefit Plan for 1996, 1997 and 1998,  respectively,  of $3,389, $2,889
         and $2,882 to Mr.  Scrushy;  $3,387,  $2,889 and $2,882 to Mr. Bennett;
         $3,386,  $2,889 and $2,882 to Mr. Martin;  $3,389, $2,889 and $2,882 to
         Mr.  Brown;  and  $1,276,  $2,889  and  $2,882 to Mr.  Tanner;  and (c)
         split-dollar  life  insurance  premiums paid in 1996,  1997 and 1998 of
         $2,312, $11,750 and $45,187 with respect to Mr. Scrushy; $1,217, $1,644
         and $1,661 with respect to Mr.  Bennett;  $752,  $1,287 and $1,338 with
         respect to Mr.  Martin;  $1,695,  $2,329 and $2,634 with respect to Mr.
         Brown; and $997, $1,513 and $2,957 with respect to Mr. Tanner. See this
         Item,  "Executive  Compensation  --  Retirement  Investment  Plan"  and
         "Executive Compensation -- Employee Stock Benefit Plan".

(2)      In  addition  to  the  amounts  described  in the  preceding  footnote,
         includes the forgiveness of loans in the amount of $21,877 each owed by
         Messrs. Scrushy, Bennett and Martin in 1996.

(3)      Salary amounts for Mr. Scrushy include monthly  incentive  compensation
         amounts payable upon  achievement of certain budget targets.  Effective
         November 1, 1998, Mr. Scrushy voluntarily suspended receipt of his base
         salary and monthly  incentive  compensation.  See this  Item,"Executive
         Compensation -- Chief Executive Officer Employment Agreement".




                                       85






STOCK OPTION GRANTS IN 1998



                                                INDIVIDUAL GRANTS
                                  ------------------------------------------
                                                % OF TOTAL
                                                  OPTIONS
                                  NUMBER OF      GRANTED TO        EXERCISE
                                   OPTIONS      EMPLOYEES IN         PRICE     EXPIRATION         GRANT DATE
NAME                               GRANTED       FISCAL YEAR       PER SHARE      DATE         PRESENT VALUE (1)  
- - - ----                               -------       -----------       ---------      ----         -----------------  

                                                                                         
Richard M. Scrushy                1,500,000          29.9%         10.00         10/22/08        $  11,355,000

James P. Bennett                    300,000           6.0%         10.00         10/22/08            2,271,000

Michael D. Martin                   260,000           5.2%         10.00         10/22/08            1,968,200

P. Daryl Brown                       75,000           1.5%         10.00         10/22/08              567,750

Anthony J. Tanner                   250,000           5.0%         10.00         10/22/08            1,892,500


- - - -----------------
(1)      Based on the  Black-Scholes  option  pricing  model  adapted for use in
         valuing   executive  stock  options.   The  actual  value,  if any,  an
         executive  may  realize  will depend upon the excess of the stock price
         over the exercise  price on the date the option is  exercised,  so that
         there is no assurance  that the value  realized by an executive will be
         at or  near  the  value  estimated  by  the  Black-Scholes  model.  The
         estimated values under that model are based on arbitrary assumptions as
         to  certain  variables,   including  the  following:  (i)  stock  price
         volatility is assumed to be 76%;  (ii) the risk-free  rate of return is
         assumed to be 6.01%;  (iii) dividend yield is assumed to be 0; and (iv)
         the time of exercise is assumed to be 7.3 years from the date of grant.

STOCK OPTION EXERCISES IN 1998 AND OPTION VALUES AT DECEMBER 31, 1998

                        


                         NUMBER                                                            VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
                        OF SHARES                    NUMBER OF UNEXERCISED OPTIONS         IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS
                        ACQUIRED                       AT DECEMBER 31, 1998 (1)          AT DECEMBER 31, 1998 (2)  
                           ON         VALUE         ------------------------------     -----------------------------
      NAME              EXERCISE     REALIZED       EXERCISABLE      UNEXERCISABLE     EXERCISABLE     UNEXERCISABLE
      ----              --------     --------       -----------      -------------     -----------     -------------

                                                                                            
Richard M. Scrushy......      --            --     12,672,524               --        $97,144,849              --
James P. Bennett........      --            --      1,610,000               --          4,945,175              --
Michael D. Martin.......      --            --        860,000           30,000          1,643,750       $ 213,750
P. Daryl Brown.......... 198,000    $2,458,802        915,000               --          5,386,450              --
Anthony J. Tanner.......      --            --      1,190,000               --          5,026,325              --


- - - --------------------
(1)  Does not reflect any options  granted and/or  exercised  after December 31,
     1998.  The net effect of any such grants and  exercises is reflected in the
     table appearing under Item 12,  "Security  Ownership of Certain  Beneficial
     Owners and Management".

(2)  Represents  the  difference  between  market price of the Company's  Common
     Stock and the  respective  exercise  prices of the options at December  31,
     1998. Such amounts may not necessarily be realized. Actual values which may
     be realized, if any, upon any exercise of such options will be based on the
     market price of the Common Stock at the time of any such  exercise and thus
     are dependent upon future performance of the Common Stock.




                                       86






STOCK OPTION PLANS

         Set forth below is  information  concerning  the various  stock  option
plans of the Company at December 31, 1998. All share numbers and exercise prices
have been adjusted to reflect the Company's March 1997 two-for-one stock split.

1984 Incentive Stock Option Plan

         The Company had a 1984  Incentive  Stock  Option Plan (the "ISO Plan"),
intended to qualify under Section  422(b) of the Internal  Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended (the  "Code"),  covering an  aggregate of 4,800,000  shares of Common
Stock.  The ISO Plan expired on February 28, 1994, in accordance with its terms.
As of December 31, 1998,  there were  outstanding  under the ISO Plan options to
purchase 15,202 shares of the Company's  Common Stock at $3.7825 per share.  All
such options remain in full force and effect in accordance  with their terms and
the ISO  Plan.  Under  the ISO  Plan,  which  was  administered  by the Board of
Directors,  key employees  could be granted options to purchase shares of Common
Stock at 100% of fair market  value on the date of grant (or 110% of fair market
value in the case of a 10% stockholder/grantee). The outstanding options granted
under the ISO Plan must be  exercised  within  ten years from the date of grant,
are  cumulatively  exercisable with respect to 25% of the shares covered thereby
after the expiration of each of the first through the fourth years following the
date of grant,  are  nontransferable  except by will or  pursuant to the laws of
descent and distribution, are protected against dilution and expire within three
months after termination of employment,  unless such termination is by reason of
death.

1988 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan

         The Company also had a 1988 Non-Qualified  Stock Option Plan (the "NQSO
Plan")  covering a maximum of 4,800,000  shares of Common  Stock.  The NQSO Plan
expired on February 28, 1998, in accordance  with its terms.  As of December 31,
1998,  there were  outstanding  under the NQSO Plan  options to  purchase  7,300
shares of the Company's  Common Stock at $16.25 per share.  Under the NQSO Plan,
which was administered by the Audit and  Compensation  Committee of the Board of
Directors,  provides that Directors,  executive officers and other key employees
could be granted  options  to  purchase  shares of Common  Stock at 100% of fair
market value on the date of grant.  The outstanding  options granted pursuant to
the NQSO Plan have a ten-year  term,  are  exercisable  at any time  during such
period,  are  nontransferable  except by will or pursuant to the laws of descent
and distribution,  are protected against dilution and expire within three months
of termination  of association  with the Company as a Director or termination of
employment, unless such termination is by reason of death.

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995 and 1997 Stock Option Plans

         The Company also has a 1989 Stock Option Plan (the "1989 Plan"), a 1990
Stock Option Plan (the "1990 Plan"), a 1991 Stock Option Plan (the "1991 Plan"),
a 1992 Stock Option Plan (the "1992 Plan"),  a 1993 Stock Option Plan (the "1993
Plan"),  a 1995 Stock Option Plan (the "1995 Plan") and a 1997 Stock Option Plan
(the "1997 Plan"),  under each of which  incentive  stock  options  ("ISOs") and
non-qualified  stock options  ("NQSOs") may be granted.  The 1989,  1990,  1991,
1992, 1993 and 1995 Plans cover a maximum of 2,400,000 shares, 3,600,000 shares,
11,200,000  shares,  5,600,000  shares,  5,600,000  shares,  18,929,658  (to  be
increased by 0.9% of the outstanding Common Stock of the Company on each January
1, beginning January 1, 1996) shares and 5,000,000 shares, respectively,  of the
Company's Common Stock. As of December 31, 1998, there were outstanding  options
to purchase an  aggregate of  29,938,700  shares of the  Company's  Common Stock
under such Plans at exercise prices ranging from $2.52 to $28.0625 per share. An
additional  3,825,091  shares were  reserved for future grants under such Plans.
Each of the 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995 and 1997 Plans is administered in
the same manner as the NQSO Plan and provides that Directors, executive officers
and other key  employees  may be granted  options to  purchase  shares of Common
Stock at 100% of fair market value on the date of grant.  The 1989,  1990, 1991,
1992,  1993,  1995 and 1997 Plans  terminate  on the earliest of (a) October 25,
1999,  October 15, 2000, June 19, 2001,  June 16, 2002,  April 19, 2003, June 5,
2005 and April 30,  2007,  respectively,  (b) such time as all  shares of Common
Stock reserved for issuance under the respective Plan have been acquired through
the exercise of options  granted  thereunder,  or (c) such earlier  times as the
Board of Directors of the Company may  determine.  Options  granted  under these
Plans which are designated as ISOs contain vesting  provisions  similar to those
contained in options granted under the ISO Plan and have a ten-year term.  NQSOs
granted  under these Plans have a ten-year  term.  Options  granted  under these
Plans are nontransferable  except by will or pursuant to the laws of descent and
distribution  (except  for  certain  permitted  transfers  to family  members or
charities),  are protected  against dilution and will expire within three months
of termination  of association  with the Company as a Director or termination of
employment, unless such termination is by reason of death.




                                       87






1993 Consultants' Stock Option Plan

         The Company also has a 1993  Consultants'  Stock Option Plan (the "1993
Consultants'  Plan"),  under which  NQSOs may be granted,  covering a maximum of
3,500,000  shares  of  Common  Stock.  As  of  December  31,  1998,  there  were
outstanding  under the 1993  Consultants'  Plan  options to  purchase  1,620,633
shares of Common Stock at prices  ranging from $3.375 to $28.0625 per share.  An
additional  120,000  shares were reserved for grants under such Plans.  The 1993
Consultants'  Plan,  which is administered  by the Board of Directors,  provides
that certain  non-employee  consultants who provide significant  services to the
Company may be granted options to purchase shares of Common Stock at such prices
as are determined by the Board of Directors or the  appropriate  committee.  The
1993  Consultants' Plan terminates on the earliest of (a) February 25, 2003, (b)
such time as all shares of Common Stock  reserved  for  issuance  under the 1993
Consultants'  Plan have been  acquired  through the exercise of options  granted
thereunder,  or (c) such  earlier  time as the Board of Directors of the Company
may determine.  Options granted under the 1993 Consultants' Plan have a ten-year
term.  Options  granted  under the 1993  Consultants'  Plan are  nontransferable
except  by  will or  pursuant  to the  laws of  descent  and  distribution,  are
protected  against  dilution and expire  within three months of  termination  of
association  with the Company as a  consultant,  unless such  termination  is by
reason of death.

Other Stock Option Plans

         In  connection  with  certain of its major  acquisitions,  the  Company
assumed  certain  existing  stock option plans of the  acquired  companies,  and
outstanding options to purchase stock of the acquired companies under such plans
were converted into options to acquire Common Stock of the Company in accordance
with the exchange ratios applicable to such mergers. At December 31, 1998, there
were outstanding under these assumed plans options to purchase  2,838,710 shares
of the  Company's  Common  Stock at  exercise  prices  ranging  from  $1.6363 to
$40.7042  per share.  No  additional  options are being  granted  under any such
assumed plans.

1998 RESTRICTED STOCK PLAN

         The Company has a 1998  Restricted  Stock Plan (the  "Restricted  Stock
Plan"),  covering a maximum of 3,000,000  shares of the Company's  Common Stock.
The Restricted  Stock Plan,  which is administered by the Audit and Compensation
Committee of the Board of  Directors,  provides  that  executives  and other key
employees of the Company and its  subsidiaries  may be granted  restricted stock
awards  vesting  over a period  of not less  than one year and no more  than ten
years, as determined by such Committee.  The Restricted Stock Plan terminates on
the  earliest of (a) May 28,  2008,  (b) the date on which  awards  covering all
shares of Common Stock  reserved for issuance  thereunder  have been granted and
are fully vested thereunder,  or (c) such earlier time as the Board of Directors
of the  Company  may  determine.  Awards  under the  Restricted  Stock  Plan are
nontransferable  except  by  will  or  pursuant  to  the  laws  of  dissent  and
distribution  (except for certain  permitted  transfers  to family  members) are
protected   against   dilution  and  are  forfeitable   upon  termination  of  a
participant's  employment  to the extent not  vested.  No awards  have been made
under the Restricted Stock Plan.

RETIREMENT INVESTMENT PLAN

         Effective   January  1,  1990,  the  Company  adopted  the  HEALTHSOUTH
Retirement  Investment Plan (the "401(k)  Plan"),  a retirement plan intended to
qualify  under  Section  401(k)  of the  Code.  The  401(k)  Plan is open to all
full-time  and  part-time  employees  of the Company who are over the age of 21,
have one full year of service  with the Company and have at least 1,000 hours of
service in the year in which they enter the 401(k) Plan.  Eligible employees may
elect to participate in the Plan on January 1 and July 1 in each year.

         Under the  401(k)  Plan,  participants  may elect to defer up to 15% of
their annual compensation  (subject to nondiscrimination  rules under the Code).
The deferred  amounts may be invested among four options,  at the  participant's
direction:  a money market fund, a bond fund, a guaranteed insurance contract or
an equity fund.  The Company will match a minimum of 15% of the amount  deferred
by each participant, up to 4% of such participant's total compensation, with the
matched  amount  also  directed  by the  participant.  See Note 12 of  "Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements".

         Michael D. Martin, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
of  the  Company,   and  Anthony  J.  Tanner,   Executive   Vice   President  --
Administration  and  Secretary of the  Company,  serve as Trustees of the 401(k)
Plan, which is administered by the Company.





                                       88






EMPLOYEE STOCK BENEFIT PLAN

         Effective   January  1,  1991,  the  Company  adopted  the  HEALTHSOUTH
Rehabilitation  Corporation  and  Subsidiaries  Employee Stock Benefit Plan (the
"ESOP"),  a  retirement  plan  intended  to qualify  under  sections  401(a) and
4975(e)(7)  of the  Code.  The  ESOP  is  open to all  full-time  and  part-time
employees  of the  Company  who are  over the age of 21,  have one full  year of
service with the Company and have at least 1,000 hours of service in the year in
which they begin participation in the ESOP on the next January 1 or July 1 after
the date on which such employee satisfies the aforementioned conditions.

         The ESOP was established with a $10,000,000 loan from the Company,  the
proceeds of which were used to purchase 1,655,172 shares of the Company's Common
Stock. In 1992, an additional  $10,000,000  loan was made to the ESOP, which was
used to purchase an additional 1,666,664 shares of Common Stock. Under the ESOP,
a Company  Common Stock account (a "company stock  account") is established  and
maintained for each eligible employee who participates in the ESOP. In each plan
year,  such  account is credited  with such  employee's  allocable  share of the
Common Stock held by the ESOP and allocated with respect to such plan year. Each
employee's  allocable  share for any given plan year is determined  according to
the ratio  which such  employee's  compensation  for such plan year bears to the
compensation of all eligible participating employees for the same plan year.

         Eligible  employees who  participate  in the ESOP and who have attained
age 55 and have  completed  10 years of  participation  in the ESOP may elect to
diversify  the  assets in their  company  stock  account by  directing  the plan
administrator  to transfer to the 401(k) Plan a portion of their  company  stock
account to be invested,  as the eligible employee directs, in one or more of the
investment  options  available  under the 401(k) Plan.  See Note 12 of "Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements".

         Richard M. Scrushy,  Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive  Officer
of the Company,  Michael D. Martin, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer of the  Company,  and Anthony J.  Tanner,  Executive  Vice  President --
Administration  and  Secretary  of the  Company,  serve as Trustees of the ESOP,
which is administered by the Company.

STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

         In order to further  encourage  employees to obtain equity ownership in
the Company, the Company's Board of Directors adopted an Employee Stock Purchase
Plan (the "Stock  Purchase  Plan")  effective  January 1, 1994.  Under the Stock
Purchase Plan, participating employees may contribute $10 to $200 per pay period
toward the purchase of the Company's  Common Stock in open-market  transactions.
The Stock Purchase Plan is open to regular full-time or part-time  employees who
have been  employed  for six  months  and are at least 21 years  old.  After six
months of  participation  in the Stock Purchase Plan, the Company will provide a
10% matching  contribution  to be applied to purchases  under the Stock Purchase
Plan. The Company also pays all fees and brokerage  commissions  associated with
the  purchase  of the  stock.  The  Stock  Purchase  Plan is  administered  by a
broker-dealer firm not affiliated with the Company.

DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN

         In  1997,  the  Board  of  Directors  adopted  an  Executive   Deferred
Compensation  Plan (the  "Deferred  Compensation  Plan"),  which  allows  senior
management personnel to elect, on an annual basis, to defer receipt of up to 50%
of their base salary and up to 100% of their annual bonus,  if any (but not less
than an  aggregate of $2,400 per year) for a minimum of five years from the date
such compensation would otherwise have been received.  Amounts deferred are held
by the Company pursuant to a "rabbi trust" arrangement, and amounts deferred are
credited with earnings at an annual rate equal to the Moody's Average  Corporate
Bond Yield Index (the  "Moody's  Rate"),  as adjusted  from time to time, or the
Moody's Rate plus 2% if a  participant's  employment  is terminated by reason of
retirement,  disability  or death or within 24 months of a change in  control of
the Company.  Amounts deferred may be withdrawn upon retirement,  termination of
employment or death, upon a showing of financial  hardship,  or voluntarily with
certain  penalties.  The  Deferred  Compensation  Plan  is  administered  by  an
Administrative  Committee,  currently consisting of Michael D. Martin, Executive
Vice  President  and Chief  Financial  Officer of the  Company,  and  Anthony J.
Tanner, Executive Vice President -- Administration and Secretary of the Company.





                                       89






BOARD COMPENSATION

         Directors who are not also employed by the Company are paid  Directors'
fees of  $10,000  per  annum,  plus  $3,000  for each  meeting  of the  Board of
Directors and $1,000 for each Committee meeting attended. In addition, Directors
are reimbursed for all out-of-pocket  expenses incurred in connection with their
duties as Directors.  The Directors of the Company,  including Mr. Scrushy, have
been granted  non-qualified  stock  options to purchase  shares of the Company's
Common Stock. Under the Company's existing stock option plans, each non-employee
Director is granted an option covering 25,000 shares of such Common Stock on the
first  business  day  in  January  of  each  year.  See  this  Item,  "Executive
Compensation -- Stock Option Plans" above.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

         The Company is party to an Employment  Agreement,  dated April 1, 1998,
with Richard M. Scrushy,  pursuant to which Mr. Scrushy, a management founder of
the Company, is employed as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
the  Company  for a  five-year  term  expiring  on April 1,  2003.  Such term is
automatically  extended  for an  additional  year on each  April  1  unless  the
Agreement is terminated as provided therein. In addition, the Company has agreed
to use its best efforts to cause Mr.  Scrushy to be elected as a Director of the
Company during the term of the Agreement. The Agreement provides for Mr. Scrushy
to receive an annual base salary of at least  $1,200,000,  as well as an "Annual
Target Bonus" equal to at least $2,400,000,  based upon the Company's success in
meeting certain monthly and annual performance standards determined by the Audit
and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. The Annual Target Bonus is
earned at the rate of $200,000  per month if the monthly  performance  standards
are met, provided that if any monthly performance  standards are not met but the
annual  performance  standards  are met,  Mr.  Scrushy  will be  entitled to any
payments  which  were  withheld  as a result  of  failure  to meet  the  monthly
performance  standards.  The  Agreement  further  provides  that Mr.  Scrushy is
eligible for  participation in all other management bonus or incentive plans and
stock option,  stock purchase or equity-based  incentive  compensation  plans in
which other senior executives of the Company are eligible to participate.  Under
the Agreement, Mr. Scrushy is entitled to receive long-term disability insurance
coverage,  a  non-qualified  retirement  plan  providing  for annual  retirement
benefits  equal  to  60%  of  his  base  compensation,  use  of a  Company-owned
automobile,  certain personal security  services,  and certain other retirement,
insurance  and  fringe  benefits,  as well as to  generally  participate  in all
employee benefit programs maintained by the Company.

         The Agreement  may be  terminated by Mr.  Scrushy for "Good Reason" (as
defined),  by  the  Company  for  "Cause"  (as  defined),   upon  Mr.  Scrushy's
"Disability"  (as  defined) or death,  or by either party at any time subject to
the  consequences  of such  termination  as described in the  Agreement.  If the
Agreement is terminated by Mr. Scrushy for Good Reason,  the Company is required
to pay him a lump-sum severance payment equal to the discounted value of the sum
of his then-current  base salary and Annual Target Bonus over the remaining term
of the Agreement and to continue  certain  employee and fringe  benefits for the
remaining term of the  Agreement.  If the Agreement is terminated by Mr. Scrushy
otherwise  than for Good  Reason,  the Company is required to pay him a lump-sum
severance  amount  equal to the  discounted  value of two  times  the sum of his
then-current base salary and Annual Target Bonus. If the Agreement is terminated
by the Company  for Cause,  Mr.  Scrushy is not  entitled  to any  severance  or
continuation  of  benefits.  If the  Agreement  is  terminated  by reason of Mr.
Scrushy's  Disability,  the Company is  required to continue  the payment of his
then-current  base  salary and  Annual  Target  Bonus for three  years as if all
relevant performance  standards had been met, and if the Agreement is terminated
by Mr. Scrushy's death,  the company is required to pay his  representatives  or
estate a  lump-sum  payment  equal to his  then-current  base  salary and Annual
Target Bonus. In the event of a voluntary termination by Mr. Scrushy following a
Change in Control (as defined) of the Company, other than for Cause, the Company
is required to pay Mr. Scrushy an additional lump-sum severance payment equal to
his then-current base salary and Annual Target Bonus. The Agreement provides for
the Company to indemnify Mr. Scrushy against certain "parachute  payment" excise
taxes which may be imposed upon  payments  under the  Agreement.  The  Agreement
restricts Mr. Scrushy from engaging in certain  activities  competitive with the
business of the Company  during,  and for 24 months  after  termination  of, his
employment with the Company,  unless such  termination  occurs after a Change in
Control.

         As a result of the  impact of the  Balanced  Budget  Act of 1997 on the
Company's reimbursement and the increased pressure from managed care payors, the
Company reduced  overhead and otherwise  managed  expenses.  In order to lead by
example,  Mr. Scrushy  voluntarily chose to forgo receipt of his base salary and
Annual  Target  Bonus after  October  31,  1998.  Through that date, all monthly
performance  standards required to be met for payment of monthly installments of
his Annual Target Bonus had been met. At some point in the future,  Mr.  Scrushy
may choose to resume receipt of some portion of his compensation package.



                                       90



OTHER EXECUTIVE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS


         The  Company is also party to  Employment  Agreements,  dated  April 1,
1998, with James P. Bennett,  President and Chief Operating Officer,  Michael D.
Martin, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Anthony J. Tanner,
Executive Vice  President --  Administration  and  Secretary,  Thomas W. Carman,
Executive Vice President -- Corporate Development,  Robert E. Thomson, President
- - - -- HEALTHSOUTH  Inpatient Operations,  P. Daryl Brown,  President -- HEALTHSOUTH
Outpatient  Centers,  and Patrick A. Foster,  President --  HEALTHSOUTH  Surgery
Centers,  pursuant to which each of such persons is employed in such  capacities
for a three-year  term expiring on April 1, 2001.  Such terms are  automatically
extended  for an  additional  year on each  April 1 unless  the  Agreements  are
terminated as provided therein.  In addition,  the Company has agreed to use its
best efforts to cause Messrs. Bennett, Tanner, Martin and Brown to be elected as
Directors of the Company  during the term of their  respective  Agreements.  The
Agreements provide for the payment of an annual base salary of at least $650,000
to Mr. Bennett,  $400,000 to Mr. Martin, $375,000 to Mr. Tanner, $325,000 to Mr.
Carman,  $300,000 to Mr.  Thomson,  $370,000 to Mr.  Brown,  and $240,000 to Mr.
Foster.  The Agreements  further  provide that each such officer is eligible for
participation in all management bonus or incentive plans and stock option, stock
purchase or  equity-based  incentive  compensation  plans in which other  senior
executives of the Company are eligible to  participate,  and provide for certain
specified fringe benefits, including car allowances of $500 per month.

         If the  Agreements  are  terminated by the Company other than for Cause
(as  defined),  Disability  (as  defined)  or death,  the Company is required to
continue the  officers'  base salary in effect for a period of two years (in the
case of Messrs.  Bennett,  Martin,  Tanner and Brown) or one year (in each other
case) after termination, as severance compensation. In addition, in the event of
a voluntary  termination  of employment by the officer within six months after a
Change in Control (as  defined),  the Company is also  required to continue  the
officer's salary for the same period. The Agreements  restrict the officers from
engaging  in certain  activities  competitive  with the  business of the Company
during  their  employment  with the Company and for any period  during which the
officer is receiving  severance  compensation,  unless such  termination  occurs
after a Change in Control.

         The Company,  with the consent of the affected  officers,  discontinued
payment of the car allowances in October 1998. In addition, each of the affected
officers has  voluntarily  agreed to a 25%  reduction  in base salary  effective
January 1, 1999 until otherwise agreed between the Company and any such officer.





                                       91






ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.

         The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Company's Common Stock as of March 15, 1999, (a) by each person
who is known by the Company to own  beneficially  more than 5% of the  Company's
Common Stock,  (b) by each of the  Company's  Directors and (c) by the Company's
five most highly  compensated  executive officers and all executive officers and
Directors as a group.



                                                                                                   PERCENTAGE
            NAME AND                                      NUMBER OF SHARES                             OF
        ADDRESS OF OWNER                               BENEFICIALLY OWNED (1)                     COMMON STOCK
        ----------------                               ----------------------                     ------------

                                                                                               
Richard M. Scrushy                                         14,187,658  (2)                           3.31%
John S. Chamberlin                                            312,000  (3)                            *
C. Sage Givens                                                412,100  (4)                            *
Charles W. Newhall III                                        580,846  (5)                            *
George H. Strong                                              468,582  (6)                            *
Phillip C. Watkins, M.D.                                      644,254  (7)                            *
James P. Bennett                                            1,890,500  (8)                            *
Anthony J. Tanner                                           1,471,358  (9)                            *
P. Daryl Brown                                              1,219,736  (10)                           *
Joel C. Gordon                                              2,886,905  (11)                           *
Michael D. Martin                                             957,008  (12)                           *
Larry D. Striplin, Jr.                                         20,000                                 *
FMR Corp.                                                  24,397,084  (13)                          5.88%
  82 Devonshire Street
  Boston, Massachusetts  02109
All Executive Officers and Directors as a Group            28,131,863  (14)                          6.38%
    (17 persons)


- - - -------------------------
(1)    The persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with
       respect  to all shares of Common  Stock  shown as  beneficially  owned by
       them, except as otherwise indicated.

(2)    Includes 6,000 shares held by trusts for Mr.  Scrushy's  minor  children,
       10,000 shares held by a charitable  foundation of which Mr. Scrushy is an
       officer  and  director  and   13,522,524   shares  subject  to  currently
       exercisable stock options.

(3)    Includes 200,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(4)    Includes  2,100 shares owned by Ms.  Givens's  spouse and 410,000  shares
       subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(5)    Includes 460 shares owned by members of Mr.  Newhall's  immediate  family
       and 460,000 shares subject to currently  exercisable  stock options.  Mr.
       Newhall disclaims  beneficial ownership of the shares owned by his family
       members except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein.

(6)    Includes  121,693 shares owned by trusts of which Mr. Strong is a trustee
       and claims shared voting and investment  power and 300,000 shares subject
       to currently exercisable stock options.

(7)    Includes 490,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(8)    Includes 1,810,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(9)    Includes  60,000  shares held in trust by Mr. Tanner for his children and
       1,340,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.







                                       92






(10)   Includes 990,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(11)   Includes 364,340 shares owned by his spouse and 434,520 shares subject to
       currently exercisable stock options.

(12)   Includes 950,000 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options.

(13)   Shares held by various investment funds for which affiliates of FMR Corp.
       act as investment  advisor.  FMR Corp. or its affiliates claim sole power
       to vote  1,012,734  of the shares and sole power to dispose of all of the
       shares.

(14)   Includes 25,380,844 shares subject to currently exercisable stock options
       held by executive officers and Directors.

*  Less than 1%

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.

        The Company purchases  computer  equipment and related technology from a
variety of vendors.  During 1998, the Company paid  $12,837,000 for the purchase
of new NCR computer  equipment from GG  Enterprises,  a value-added  reseller of
computer  equipment  which is owned by Gerald Scrushy,  the father of Richard M.
Scrushy,  Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company,  and
Gerald P. Scrushy,  Senior Vice President -- Physical  Resources of the Company.
Such purchases were made in the ordinary course of the Company's  business.  The
price paid for this  equipment was more favorable to the Company than that which
could have been obtained from an independent third-party seller.

         Horizon/CMS  is party to an  agreement  with AMI  Aviation  II,  L.L.C.
("AMI") with respect to the use of an airplane  owned by AMI.  Neal M.  Elliott,
who was Chairman,  President and Chief Executive Officer of Horizon/CMS prior to
its  acquisition  by the Company in October 1997 and who served as a Director of
the Company  from October  1997 until his death in February  1998,  was Managing
Member of AMI,  a position  which is now held by a trust of which Mr.  Elliott's
widow is a trustee.  Mr. Elliott owned,  and such trust now owns, a 99% interest
in AMI.  Under the use  agreement,  Horizon/CMS  is obligated to pay $43,000 per
month  through  December  1999 and $57,600 per month from  January  2000 through
December 2004 for up to 30 hours per month of utilization of the airplane,  plus
certain operating  expenses of the airplane.  The Company has caused Horizon/CMS
to continue to honor such use agreement,  and is currently  exploring  available
options with respect to continued use of the airplane.

         In November  1997, the Company agreed to lend up to $10,000,000 to 21st
Century Health Ventures L.L.C.  ("21st Century"),  an entity formed to sponsor a
private equity investment fund investing in the healthcare industry.  Richard M.
Scrushy,  Chairman of the Board and Chief  Executive  Officer of the Company and
Michael D. Martin,  Executive Vice President and Chief  Financial  Officer and a
Director of the  Company,  along with  another  individual  not  employed by the
Company,  were the  principals of 21st  Century.  The purpose of the loan was to
facilitate certain investments by 21st Century prior to the establishment of its
proposed  private equity fund, in which it was anticipated  that the Company and
third-party  investors  would invest.  Investment by the Company in such private
equity fund was expected to allow the Company to benefit from the opportunity to
participate  in investments  in healthcare  businesses  that are not part of the
Company's core businesses,  but which the Company believes provide opportunities
for  growth.  Amounts  outstanding  under the loan bore  interest at 1% over the
prime  rate  announced  from time to time by AmSouth  Bank of  Alabama  and were
repayable upon demand by the Company. During 1997 and 1998, 21st Century drew an
aggregate of $2,841,310  under the $10,000,000  commitment,  of which $1,500,000
was used to purchase 576,924 shares of Series B Preferred  Convertible Preferred
Stock in Summerville  Healthcare  Group, Inc.  ("Summerville"),  a developer and
operator of assisted living  facilities,  and the remainder of which was used to
make an  investment  in  Pathology  Partners,  Inc.,  a provider  of  management
services to pathology groups.  The Company owns an aggregate of 3,361,539 shares
of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of Summerville, which it acquired in two
transactions in July and November 1997. In connection with the July transaction,
Mr.  Scrushy  and Mr.  Martin  were  appointed  to the  Board  of  Directors  of
Summerville. 21st Century repaid the principal and the interest allocated to the
purchase of the  Summerville  stock during 1998.  In the first  quarter of 1999,
21st Century  determined that, due to adverse changes in the markets for private
equity  funds  specializing  in the  healthcare  industry,  it was  advisable to
dissolve 21st Century.  In connection  with the dissolution of the 21st Century,
21st Century  transferred to  HEALTHSOUTH  675,005 shares of Series A Cumulative
Preferred Stock and 1,440,010 shares of Series B Convertible  Preferred Stock of
Pathology Partners, Inc, in satisfaction of the principal and interest allocable
to the loan relating to the Pathology  Partners,  Inc.  investment.  The Company
believes that the value of the stock so received is equal to or greater than the
indebtedness of 21st Century to the Company.





                                       93






         On  December  31,  1998,  the  Company  completed  the sale  through  a
leveraged  recapitalization  of a majority  interest in one of its  subsidiaries
which  acted as a holding  company  for its  temporary  physician  staffing  and
therapist placement businesses  ("CompHealth").  These non-strategic  businesses
were acquired by the Company in connection  with certain of its major  strategic
acquisitions.  The  Company  retained  approximately  15% of the  equity in such
holding company. Net proceeds to the Company were approximately $34,100,000. The
purchasers  comprised  a  group  of  venture  capital  funds,   including  funds
affiliated  with C. Sage  Givens  and  Charles  W.  Newhall  III,  both  outside
Directors  of the  Company,  as well as  venture  capital  funds  controlled  by
unaffiliated  third parties.  The Company solicited offers from third parties to
purchase the business over a period of several months,  and the Company believes
that the purchase price and terms of the  transaction  effected with the venture
capital funds were more favorable to the Company than those available from other
purchasers. In connection with the transaction, the Company entered into certain
"preferred  vendor"  arrangements  with  CompHealth,   and  Michael  D.  Martin,
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial  Officer of the Company,  was named
to the Board of Directors of CompHealth.

         At various times,  the Company has made loans to executive  officers to
assist them in meeting  financial  obligations  at certain  times when they were
requested  by the  Company  to refrain  from  selling  Common  Stock in the open
market.  At January 1, 1998, loans in the following  original  principal amounts
were  outstanding:  $460,000 to Larry R. House,  a former  Director and a former
executive  officer,  $500,000  to  Aaron  Beam,  Jr.,  formerly  Executive  Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer and a Director,  and $140,000 and $350,000
to William T. Owens,  Group Senior Vice  President and  Controller.  Outstanding
principal  balances at December 31, 1998 were $210,000 for Mr.  House,  $400,000
for Mr. Beam and an  aggregate  of $476,000  for Mr.  Owens.  During  1998,  the
Company also made loans of $400,000 to P. Daryl Brown,  President -- HEALTHSOUTH
Outpatient  Centers and a Director,  and  $750,000  to Russell H.  Maddox,  then
President -- HEALTHSOUTH  Diagnostic Centers, both of which remained outstanding
at December 31, 1998. In  connection  with Mr.  Beam's  retirement,  the Company
agreed  to  forgive  his loan over a period of five  years in  exchange  for his
provision of  consulting  services to the Company  over such period.  Such loans
bear  interest  at the rate of 1-1/4% per annum  below the prime rate of AmSouth
Bank of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, and are payable on demand.





                                       94






                                     PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

(a)      Financial Statements, Financial Statement Schedules and Exhibits.

         1.       Financial Statements.

         The   consolidated   financial   statements  of  the  Company  and  its
subsidiaries  filed as a part of this  Annual  Report on Form 10-K are listed in
Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which listing is hereby  incorporated
herein by reference.

         2.       Financial Statement Schedules.

         The financial  statement schedules required by Regulation S-X are filed
under Item 14(d) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as listed below:

         Schedules Supporting the Financial Statements

         Schedule II            Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

         All other  schedules  for  which  provision  is made in the  applicable
accounting  regulations  of the  Securities  and Exchange  Commission  have been
omitted  because they are not  required  under the related  instructions  or are
inapplicable,  or because the information has been provided in the  Consolidated
Financial Statements or the Notes thereto.

         3.       Exhibits.

         The Exhibits  filed as a part of this Annual  Report are listed in Item
14(c) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K,  which listing is hereby  incorporated
herein by reference.

(b)      Reports on Form 8-K.

         The  Company  filed no  Current  Reports  on Form 8-K  during the three
months ended December 31, 1998.

(c)      Exhibits.

         The Exhibits  required by Regulation S-K are set forth in the following
list and are filed either by  incorporation  by reference from previous  filings
with the  Securities  and Exchange  Commission  or by  attachment to this Annual
Report on Form 10-K as so indicated in such list.

     (2)-1        Amended and Restated Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated as of
                  September   18,   1994,   among   HEALTHSOUTH   Rehabilitation
                  Corporation,  RRS Acquisitions Company, Inc. and ReLife, Inc.,
                  filed as Exhibit (2)-1 to the Company's Registration Statement
                  on  Form  S-4   (Registration   No.   33-55929),   is   hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (2)-2        Amended and Restated Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated as of
                  January 22, 1995, among HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  ASC Atlanta
                  Acquisition  Company,  Inc. and Surgical  Health  Corporation,
                  filed as Exhibit (2)-4 to the Company's  Annual Report on Form
                  10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended  December 31,  1994,  is hereby
                  incorporated by reference.




                                       95






     (2)-3        Stock  Purchase  Agreement,  dated  February  3,  1995,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  NovaCare,  Inc.  and NC  Resources,
                  Inc., filed as Exhibit (2)-3 to the Company's Annual Report on
                  Form 10-K for the Fiscal  Year Ended  December  31,  1994,  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-4        Plan and  Agreement of Merger,  dated  August 23, 1995,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  SSCI  Acquisition  Corporation  and
                  Sutter  Surgery  Centers,  Inc.,  filed as Exhibit  (2) to the
                  Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No.
                  33-63-055) is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-5        Amendment to Plan and  Agreement of Merger,  dated October 26,
                  1995,   among   HEALTHSOUTH   Corporation,   SSCI  Acquisition
                  Corporation and Sutter Surgery Centers, Inc., filed as Exhibit
                  (2)-5 to the  Company's  Annual  Report  on Form  10-K for the
                  Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1995, is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (2)-6        Amended and Restated Plan and Agreement of Merger, dated as of
                  October   9,  1995,   among   HEALTHSOUTH   Corporation,   SCA
                  Acquisition  Corporation and Surgical Care  Affiliates,  Inc.,
                  filed as Exhibit  (2)-1 to  Amendment  No. 1 to the  Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-4   (Registration   No.
                  33-64935), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-7        Agreement and Plan of Merger,  dated December 16, 1995,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Aladdin Acquisition Corporation and
                  Advantage  Health  Corporation,  filed as Exhibit (2)-1 to the
                  Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No.
                  333-825), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-8        Plan and  Agreement  of  Merger,  dated  May 16,  1996,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Empire Acquisition  Corporation and
                  Professional  Sports Care  Management,  Inc., filed as Exhibit
                  (2)-1  to the  Company's  Registration  Statement  on Form S-4
                  (Registration  No.  333-08449),   is  hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (2)-9        Plan and Agreement of Merger,  dated September 11, 1996, among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Warwick Acquisition Corporation and
                  ReadiCare,  Inc.,  filed as  Exhibit  (2)-1  to the  Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-4   (Registration   No.
                  333-14697), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-10       Plan and Agreement of Merger,  dated  December 2, 1996,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Hammer Acquisition  Corporation and
                  Health Images,  Inc.,  filed as Exhibit (2)-1 to the Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-4   (Registration   No.
                  333-19439), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-11       Plan and Agreement of Merger,  dated February 17, 1997,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Reid  Acquisition  Corporation  and
                  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corporation,  as  amended,  filed  as
                  Exhibit 2 to the Company's  Registration Statement on Form S-4
                  (Registration  No.  333-36419),   is  hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (2)-12       Purchase and Sale  Agreement,  dated  November 3, 1997,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare Corporation
                  and Integrated Health Services,  Inc., filed as Exhibit 2.1 to
                  the Company's  Current  Report on Form 8-K, dated December 31,
                  1997, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-13       Amendment to Purchase and Sale  Agreement,  dated December 31,
                  1997, among HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare
                  Corporation and Integrated  Health  Services,  Inc.,  filed as
                  Exhibit 2.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated
                  December 31, 1997, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (2)-14       Second  Amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement,  dated March
                  4, 1998, among HEALTHSOUTH Corporation, Horizon/CMS Healthcare
                  Corporation and Integrated  Health  Services,  Inc.,  filed as
                  Exhibit (2-14) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for
                  the  Fiscal  Year  Ended   December   31,   1997,   is  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (2)-15       Plan  and  Agreement  of  Merger,  dated  May 5,  1998,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  Field  Acquisition  Corporation and
                  National  Surgery  Centers,  Inc., filed as Exhibit (2) to the
                  Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No.
                  333- 57087), is hereby incorporated by reference.





                                       96






     (3)-1        Restated   Certificate   of   Incorporation   of   HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation,  as filed in the Office of the Secretary of State
                  of the State of  Delaware  on May 21,  1998,  filed as Exhibit
                  (3)-1 to the Company's  Current Report on Form 8 dated May 28,
                  1998, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (3)-2        By-laws of HEALTHSOUTH Corporation,  filed as Exhibit (3)-2 to
                  the Company's  Current Report on Form 98-K dated May 28, 1998,
                  are hereby incorporated by reference.

     (4)-1        Indenture,   dated  March  24,   1994,   between   HEALTHSOUTH
                  Rehabilitation   Corporation   and   NationsBank  of  Georgia,
                  National  Association,  relating to the Company's  9.5% Senior
                  Subordinated  Notes due 2001,  filed as  Exhibit  (4)-1 to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1994, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (4)-2        Subordinated   Indenture,   dated  March  20,  1998,   between
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation  and The  Bank of Nova  Scotia  Trust
                  Company of New York, as Trustee, filed as Exhibit (4)-2 to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1997, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (4)-3        Officer's Certificate pursuant to Sections 2.3 and 11.5 of the
                  Subordinated   Indenture,   dated  March  20,  1998,   between
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation  and The  Bank of Nova  Scotia  Trust
                  Company of New York,  as Trustee,  relating  to the  Company's
                  3.25% Convertible  Subordinated  Debentures due 2003, filed as
                  Exhibit (4)-3 to the Company's  Annual Report on Form 10-K for
                  the  Fiscal  Year  Ended   December   31,   1997,   is  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (4)-4        Registration  Rights  Agreement,  dated March 17, 1998,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and Smith Barney Inc., Bear, Stearns &
                  Co.  Inc.,  Cowen  &  Company,   Credit  Suisse  First  Boston
                  Corporation, J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co.
                  Incorporated,   NationsBanc   Montgomery  Securities  LLC  and
                  PaineWebber  Incorporated,  relating  to the  Company's  3.25%
                  Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2003, filed as Exhibit
                  (4)-4 to the  Company's  Annual  Report  on Form  10-K for the
                  Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1997, is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (4)-5        Indenture,   dated   June  22,   1998,   between   HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and PNC Bank,  National  Association,  as Trustee,
                  filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form
                  10-Q for the  Three  Months  Ended  June 30,  1998,  is hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (4)-6        Form of  Officer's  Certificate  pursuant to Sections  2.3 and
                  11.5  of  the   Indenture,   dated  June  22,  1998,   between
                  HEALTHSOUTH Corporation and PNC Bank, National Association, as
                  Trustee,  relating to the  Company's  6.875%  Senior Notes due
                  2005 and 7.0% Senior Notes due 2008, filed as Exhibit (4)-6 to
                  the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration
                  No. 333- 61485), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-1       1984 Incentive Stock Option Plan, as amended, filed as Exhibit
                  (10)-1  to the  Company's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1987, is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (10)-2       1988 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, filed as Exhibit 4(a) to
                  the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration
                  No. 33-23642), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-3       1989  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed  as  Exhibit  (10)-6  to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1989, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-4       1990  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as  Exhibit  (10)-13  to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year ended
                  December 31, 1990, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-5       1991 Stock Option Plan, as amended,  filed as Exhibit  (10)-15
                  to the  Company's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the  Fiscal
                  Year  ended  December  31,  1991,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.



 

                                       97





     (10)-6       1992  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed  as  Exhibit  (10)-8  to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1992, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-7       1993  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as  Exhibit  (10)-10  to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1993, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-8       Amended and Restated 1993 Consultants Stock Option Plan, filed
                  as Exhibit 4 to the Company's  Registration  Statement on Form
                  S-8 (Commission File No. 333-42305), is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (10)-9       1995  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as  Exhibit  (10)-14  to the
                  Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended
                  December 31, 1995, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-10      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Richard M. Scrushy.

     (10)-11      Credit  Agreement,  dated as of June 23,  1998,  by and  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,  NationsBank,  National Association,
                  J.P. Morgan  Securities,  Inc.,  Deutsche Bank AG, ScotiaBanc,
                  Inc. and the Lenders party thereto from time to time, filed as
                  Exhibit 10 to the Company's  Quarterly  Report on Form for the
                  Three Months Ended June 30, 1998,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-12      Form of Indemnity  Agreement entered into between  HEALTHSOUTH
                  Rehabilitation Corporation and each of its Directors, filed as
                  Exhibit  (10)-13 to the  Company's  Annual Report on Form 10-K
                  for the  Fiscal  Year  Ended  December  31,  1991,  is  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-13      Surgical Health  Corporation  1992 Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit 10(aa) to Surgical Health  Corporation's  Registration
                  Statement  on Form  S-4  (Commission  File No.  33-70582),  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-14      Surgical Health  Corporation  1993 Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit 10(bb) to Surgical Health  Corporation's  Registration
                  Statement  on Form  S-4  (Commission  File No.  33-70582),  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-15      Surgical Health  Corporation  1994 Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit  10(pp) to  Surgical  Health  Corporation's  Quarterly
                  Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarter Ended  September 30, 1994,
                  is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-16      Heritage Surgical Corporation 1992 Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit 4(d) to the Company's  Registration  Statement on Form
                  S-8 (Commission File No. 33-60231),  is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (10)-17      Heritage Surgical Corporation 1993 Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit 4(e) to the Company's  Registration  Statement on Form
                  S-8 (Commission File No. 33-60231),  is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (10)-18      Sutter   Surgery   Centers,   Inc.  1993  Stock  Option  Plan,
                  Non-Qualified  Stock  Option  Plan  and  Agreement  (Saibeni),
                  Non-Qualified   Stock  Option  Plan  and   Agreement   (Shah),
                  Non-Qualified   Stock  Option  Plan  and  Agreement  (Akella),
                  Non-Qualified  Stock  Option  Plan and  Agreement  (Kelly) and
                  Non-Qualified  Stock Option Plan and Agreement (May), filed as
                  Exhibits 4(a) - 4(f) to the Company's  Registration  Statement
                  on  Form  S-8  (Commission  File  No.  33-64615),  are  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-19      Surgical Care Affiliates  Incentive Stock Plan of 1986,  filed
                  as Exhibit  10(g) to Surgical Care  Affiliates,  Inc.'s Annual
                  Report on Form 10-K for the  Fiscal  Year Ended  December  31,
                  1993, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-20      Surgical Care Affiliates 1990 Non-Qualified  Stock Option Plan
                  for Non-Employee Directors, filed as Exhibit 10(i) to Surgical
                  Care  Affiliates,  Inc.'s  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1990, is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.


 

                                      98






     (10)-21      Professional  Sports Care  Management,  Inc. 1992 Stock Option
                  Plan,   as  amended,   filed  as  Exhibits   10.1  -  10.3  to
                  Professional  Sports  Care  Management,   Inc.'s  Registration
                  Statement  on Form  S-1  (Commission  File No.  33-81654),  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-22      Professional Sports Care Management, Inc. 1994 Stock Incentive
                  Plan,  filed  as  Exhibit  10.4 to  Professional  Sports  Care
                  Management,   Inc.'s   Registration   Statement  on  Form  S-1
                  (Commission  File No.  33-81654),  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-23      Professional  Sports Care  Management,  Inc.  1994  Directors'
                  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as  Exhibit  10.5 to  Professional
                  Sports Care Management,  Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form
                  S-1 (Commission File No. 33-81654),  is hereby incorporated by
                  reference.

     (10)-24      ReadiCare, Inc. 1991 Stock Option Plan, filed as an exhibit to
                  ReadiCare,  Inc.'s  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal
                  Year  Ended  February  29,  1992,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-25      ReadiCare,  Inc. Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors,
                  as amended,  filed as an exhibit to  ReadiCare,  Inc's  Annual
                  Report on Form 10-K for the  Fiscal  Year Ended  February  29,
                  1992 and as an exhibit to  ReadiCare,  Inc.'s Annual Report on
                  Form 10-K for the Fiscal  Year Ended  February  28,  1994,  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-26      1997 Stock  Option Plan,  filed as Exhibit 4 to the  Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-8   (Registration   No.
                  333-42307) is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-27      1998 Restricted Stock Plan.

     (10)-28      Health Images, Inc.  Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, filed as
                  Exhibit  10(d)(i) to Health  Images,  Inc.'s  Annual Report on
                  Form 10-K for the Fiscal  Year Ended  December  31,  1995,  is
                  hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-29      Amended and Restated Employee  Incentive Stock Option Plan, as
                  amended,  of Health Images,  Inc., filed as Exhibits 10(c)(i),
                  10(c)(ii),  10(c)(iii) and 10(c)(iv) to Health Images,  Inc.'s
                  Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended  December
                  31, 1995, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-30      Form of Health  Images,  Inc.  1995 Formula Stock Option Plan,
                  filed as Exhibit  10(d)(iv) to Health  Images,  Inc.'s  Annual
                  Report on Form 10-K for the  Fiscal  Year Ended  December  31,
                  1995, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-31      1996 Employee  Incentive  Stock Option Plan of Health  Images,
                  Inc.,  filed as  Exhibit  4(v) to the  Company's  Registration
                  Statement on Form S-8 (Registration No. 333-24429),  is hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-32      Employee   Stock   Option  Plan  of   Horizon/CMS   Healthcare
                  Corporation,  filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Horizon/CMS  Healthcare
                  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year
                  Ended May 31, 1994, is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-33      First  Amendment to Employee  Stock Option Plan of Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation,  filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal  Year Ended May 31,  1994,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-34      Corrected  Second  Amendment to Employee  Stock Option Plan of
                  Horizon/CMS Healthcare  Corporation,  filed as Exhibit 10.7 to
                  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form
                  10-K  for the  Fiscal  Year  Ended  May 31,  1994,  is  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-35      Amendment No. 3 to Employee  Stock Option Plan of  Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare Corporation,  filed as Exhibit 10.12 to Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal  Year Ended May 31,  1995,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.


 

                                       99






     (10)-36      Horizon   Healthcare   Corporation   Stock   Option  Plan  for
                  Non-Employee  Directors,  filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal  Year Ended May 31,  1994,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-37      Amendment No. 1 to Horizon Healthcare Corporation Stock Option
                  Plan for  Non-Employee  Directors,  filed as Exhibit  10.14 to
                  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form
                  10-K  for the  Fiscal  Year  Ended  May 31,  1996,  is  hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-38      Horizon/CMS  Healthcare Corporation 1995 Incentive Plan, filed
                  as  Exhibit  4.1  to  Horizon/CMS   Healthcare   Corporation's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-8   (Registration   No.
                  33-63199), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-39      Horizon/CMS    Healthcare    Corporation   1995   Non-Employee
                  Directors'   Stock  Option  Plan,  filed  as  Exhibit  4.2  to
                  Horizon/CMS Healthcare Corporation's Registration Statement on
                  Form S-8 (Registration No. 33-63199),  is hereby  incorporated
                  by reference.

     (10)-40      First  Amendment to Horizon  Healthcare  Corporation  Employee
                  Stock  Purchase  Plan,  filed as Exhibit 10.18 to  Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Annual  Report on Form 10-K for the
                  Fiscal  Year Ended May 31,  1996,  is hereby  incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-41      Continental  Medical Systems,  Inc. 1994 Stock Option Plan (as
                  amended and restated  effective  December 1, 1991),  Amendment
                  No. 1 to Continental  Medical Systems,  Inc. 1986 Stock Option
                  Plan and Amendment No. 2 to Continental Medical Systems,  Inc.
                  1986 Stock  Option Plan,  filed as Exhibit 4.1 to  Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Registration  Statement on Form S-8
                  (Registration  No.  33-61697),   is  hereby   incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-42      Continental Medical Systems, Inc. 1989 Non-Employee Directors'
                  Stock Option Plan (as amended and restated  effective December
                  1,  1991),  filed as  Exhibit  4.2 to  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare
                  Corporation's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration
                  No. 33-61697), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-43      Continental  Medical Systems,  Inc. 1992 CEO Stock Option Plan
                  and Amendment No. 1 to Continental Medical Systems,  Inc. 1992
                  CEO Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as Exhibit 4.3 to  Horizon/CMS
                  Healthcare  Corporation's  Registration  Statement on Form S-8
                  (Registration  No.  33-61697),   is  hereby   incorporated  by
                  reference.

     (10)-44      Continental  Medical  Systems,  Inc. 1993  Nonqualified  Stock
                  Option Plan,  Amendment No. 1 to Continental  Medical Systems,
                  Inc. 1993  Nonqualified  Stock Option Plan and Amendment No. 2
                  to Continental  Medical Systems,  Inc. 1993 Nonqualified Stock
                  Option Plan,  filed as Exhibit 4.4 to  Horizon/CMS  Healthcare
                  Corporation's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration
                  No. 33-61697), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-45      Continental  Medical  Systems,  Inc.  1994 Stock  Option Plan,
                  filed as Exhibit 4.5 to Horizon/CMS  Healthcare  Corporation's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-8   (Registration   No.
                  33-61697), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-46      The Company Doctor Amended and Restated  Omnibus Stock Plan of
                  1995,  filed  as  Exhibit  4.1 to the  Company's  Registration
                  Statement on Form S-8 (Registration No. 333-59895),  is hereby
                  incorporated by reference.

     (10)-47      National Surgery Centers, Inc. Amended and Restated 1992 Stock
                  Option   Plan,   filed  as  Exhibit   4.1  to  the   Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-8   (Registration   No.
                  333-59887), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-48      National Surgery  Centers,  Inc. 1997  Non-Employee  Directors
                  Stock  Option  Plan,  filed as  Exhibit  4.2 to the  Company's
                  Registration   Statement   on  Form  S-8   (Registration   No.
                  333-59887), is hereby incorporated by reference.

     (10)-49      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and James P. Bennett.

     (10)-50      Employment Agreement,  dated April 1, 198, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and P. Daryl Brown.


 

                                      100






     (10)-51      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Thomas W. Carman.

     (10)-52      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Michael D. Martin.

     (10)-53      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Anthony J. Tanner.

     (10)-54      Employment Agreement, dated April 1, 1998, between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Patrick A. Foster.

     (10)-55      Employment Agreement,  dated April 1, 1998 between HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation and Robert E. Thomson.

     (10)-56      Lease  Agreement,  dated  December  18,  1998,  between  First
                  Security Bank,  National  Association,  as Owner Trustee under
                  the  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation  Trust  1998-1,  as Lessor,  and
                  HEALTHSOUTH Corporation, as Lessee.

     (10)-57      Participation  Agreement,   dated  December  18,  1998,  among
                  HEALTHSOUTH   Corporation  as  Lessee,  First  Security  Bank,
                  National  Association,  as Owner Trustee under the HEALTHSOUTH
                  Corporation  Trust  1998-1,  the Holders and the Lenders Party
                  Thereto From Time to Time,  Deutsche Bank A.G. New York Branch
                  and NationsBank, N.A.

     (10)-58      Short Term Credit Agreement,  among  HEALTHSOUTH  Corporation,
                  NationsBank,  N.A.,  NationsBanc Montgomery Securities LLC and
                  the Lenders Party Thereto From Time to Time,  dated  September
                  28, 1998.

     (10)-59      Amendment  Agreement  No. 1 to Short  Term  Credit  Agreement,
                  dated  February  17,  1999,  among  HEALTHSOUTH   Corporation,
                  NationsBank,  N.A. and the Lenders  Party Thereto From Time to
                  Time.

     (21)         Subsidiaries of HEALTHSOUTH Corporation.

     (23)         Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.

     (27)         Financial Data Schedule.

(d)      Financial Statement Schedules.

         Schedule II:          Valuation and Qualifying Accounts



 

                                      101






                SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS



           Column A                   Column B                       Column C                        Column D           Column E

- - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                     Balance at       Additions Charged     Additions Charged
                                    Beginning of        to Costs and       to Other Accounts -     Deductions -        Balance at
          Description                  Period             Expenses              Describe             Describe         End of Period
- - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          (In thousands)
                                                                                                           
Year ended December 31, 1996:
       Allowance for doubtful
       accounts                    $       61,267     $       61,311        $       13,737 (1)   $       59,232 (2)  $       77,083
                                   ==============     ==============        ==============       ==============      ==============

Year ended December 31, 1997:
       Allowance for doubtful
       accounts                    $       77,083     $       74,743        $       43,077 (1)   $       67,331 (2)  $      127,572
                                   ==============     ==============        ==============       ==============      ==============

Year ended December 31, 1998:
       Allowance for doubtful
       accounts                    $      127,572     $      112,202        $       18,524 (1)   $      114,609 (2)  $      143,689
                                   ==============     ==============        ==============       ==============      ==============


- - - -------------------------

(1)    Allowances of acquisitions in years 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.

(2)    Write-offs of uncollectible patient accounts receivable.



 

                                      102






                                   SIGNATURES

         Pursuant to the  requirements  of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                          HEALTHSOUTH CORPORATION

                                          By         RICHARD M. SCRUSHY        
                                             ----------------------------------
                                                     Richard M. Scrushy,
                                                    Chairman of the Board
                                                 and Chief Executive Officer

                                          Date:   March 31, 1999

         Pursuant to the  requirements  of the Securities  Exchange Act of 1934,
this  Report has been  signed  below by the  following  persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.



              Signature                                      Capacity                                Date
               ---------                                      --------                                ----

                                                                                          
          RICHARD M. SCRUSHY                            Chairman of the Board                    March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------               and Chief Executive Officer
          Richard M. Scrushy                                and Director        
                                                     

           MICHAEL D. MARTIN                          Executive Vice President                   March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------               and Chief Financial Officer
           Michael D. Martin                                and Director        
                                                     

           WILLIAM T. OWENS                      Group Senior Vice President-Finance             March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------          and Controller (Principal Accounting
           William T. Owens                                   Officer)              
                                                

            C. SAGE GIVENS                                    Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
            C. Sage Givens

        CHARLES W. NEWHALL III                                Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
        Charles W. Newhall III

           GEORGE H. STRONG                                   Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
           George H. Strong

          PHILLIP C. WATKINS                                  Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
          Phillip C. Watkins

          JOHN S. CHAMBERLIN                                  Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
          John S. Chamberlin

           ANTHONY J. TANNER                                  Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
           Anthony J. Tanner



 

                                      103





                                                                                            
           JAMES P. BENNETT                                   Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
           James P. Bennett

            P. DARYL BROWN                                    Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
            P. Daryl Brown

            JOEL C. GORDON                                    Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
            Joel C. Gordon

        LARRY D. STRIPLIN, JR.                                Director                           March 31, 1999
- - - --------------------------------------
        Larry D. Striplin, Jr.




                                      104