National Physical Therapy Month: A Celebration of Health and Resilience
October has arrived, and with it comes National Physical Therapy Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the transformative goal of physical therapy. This year,
Centers Health Care, the largest post-acute health care provider in the Northeast, is proudly participating in this awareness campaign by stressing the significance of physical therapy in promoting strength, mobility, and overall wellness among patients.
Being responsible for the well-being of approximately one million individuals each year across
42 skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers, Centers Health Care is deeply committed to showcasing the valuable role of physical therapists (PTs) and their assistants (PTAs) in improving health outcomes. These committed professionals work tirelessly, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality rehabilitative care tailored to individual needs.
The Lifelong Benefits of Physical Therapy
"National Physical Therapy Month serves as a platform to communicate the life-altering advantages of physical therapy and to honor the exceptional dedication of physical therapy professionals," stated
Travis Womer, PT, DPT, RAC-CT, who is the Corporate Director of Reimbursement, Operations, and Development at
Sigma Health Rehab, a division of Centers Health Care. Amidst various activities and partnerships this month, Womer emphasized the essential themes of resilience, enhanced mobility, and wellness as focal points.
Every year, over
10,000 rehabilitation patients transition from Centers Health Care stronger and healthier, equipped to resume their active lives with their families. This remarkable result highlights the effectiveness of specialized rehabilitation services provided by skilled professionals who understand the nuances of restorative care.
Advocating for the Physical Therapy Community
To amplify their message, Centers Health Care collaborates with the
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and other national organizations to raise awareness about the critical role that physical therapists play in healthcare. Together, they advocate for building resilience among patients and developing innovative strategies for robust recovery processes.
Efforts are underway to enhance the education of future physical therapists through dedicated programs like
Exxat One, which connects therapy students with hands-on experiences that adhere to APTA standards. This initiative aims at cultivating an understanding of value-based care and readiness to tackle the unique challenges presented by skilled nursing environments. This includes lessons on compliance with guidelines set forth by
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Fall Prevention and Ensuring Safe Mobility
In addition to their month-long celebration, Centers Health Care champions the
Falls Prevention Month initiative. They are resolute in ensuring that all facilities within their network are equipped with the latest evidence-based strategies for preventing falls, thereby protecting the well-being of their patients. Enhancing a culture that elicits safety and mobility remains a primary goal, ensuring that patients are educated and empowered in managing their health effectively.
The
Skilled Nursing Facility Special Interest Group (SIG) was launched by Sigma Rehab/Centers Health Care in collaboration with APTA's Geriatrics Section. This collective effort seeks to provide resources for physical therapists working in skilled nursing and subacute rehabilitation settings. These resources include specialized education, research, and intervention strategies aimed at enriching both the therapist experience and the quality of care provided to patients.
About Centers Health Care
With a focus on holistic health and wellbeing, Centers Health Care stands as a beacon of hope and recovery in the Northeast. The organization not only works towards improving patient health outcomes but also actively participates in community engagement and educational initiatives that promote active living. For more information about their services and mission, you can visit
Centers Health Care.
In celebrating National Physical Therapy Month, Centers Health Care reminds us of the essential role that movement and rehabilitation play in our lives, advocating for a healthier, more active lifestyle for its residents and patients alike.