NYPTA 2019 May/June Newsletter

May/June, 2019 Volume M, NO. 27

Empire State Physical

Therapy

The O fficia l N e ws l et t e r o f t h e Ne w York Phy si cal The rapy A ssoci at io n , In c.

IN THIS ISSUE Another Lobby Day is in the Books!

(Cover Story (page 1,3)

State of the Chapter 2019 (President's Letter (page 2,6-7) 2019 Chapter Conference is Happening! (page 5)

Member Spotlight: William O'Keefe, PT, MS

Left to right: Kelly Garceau NYPTA Executive Director, Assemblyperson Kenneth Zebrowski, Peggy Lynam NYPTA Board President, Jacob I. McPherson, NYPTA Public Policy Committtee Chair

Another Lobby Day is in the Books!

(page 8-9)

by Jacob I. McPherson, PT, DPT, Chairperson, NYPTA Public Policy Committee

Member Spotlight: Adam Rufa, PT, DPT

On Monday May 6th, 2019 advocates for physical therapy once again traveled to Albany to fight on behalf of our profession. First, I would like to offer a sincere “Thank You!” to everyone who took the time out of their busy schedules in order to attend the event. Second, thank you to our Legislative Liaisons who scheduled appointments and provided logistical support to our members, and finally thank you to NYPTA staff for their planning and onsite efforts to make the day a success.

(page 11-12)

Annual Leadership Development Workshop Recap (page 13)

2019 NYPTA Award Winners (page 14)

2019 - 2021 Elected Officers & the Elected Delegates to the 2020 HOD (page 15)

NYPTA 2019 Spring BOD-DA Photo Gallery (page 16-19)

This year’s efforts were focused on one central theme: enhancing ACCESS to physical therapy. Most of our bills seek to remove barriers to treatment and to highlight physical therapist services as a frontline intervention for neuromusculoskeletal conditions.

The morning began with a crescendo of energy as participants began to arrive at the Legislative Office Building, gather with their colleagues, and arm themselves with talking points and support materials for our legislators. By 9:30am we were off to our meetings where we introduced ourselves as private practitioners, educators, staff therapists, students, and continued on page 3

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 1

Volume M, No.27 May/June, 2019

State of the Chapter 2019

EM P II R E M P RE E A L L PPHHY YS SI I CC A

President’s letter

S TS AT TAET E

T THHE ER A R PA YP Y

Volume XXXIX, No.(8), November/December, 2005

Publisher

I was honored to address the delegates at the 2019 NYPTA Delegate Assembly which was held on April 27 in Albany, NY. During my address, I shared my perspective on the "State of the Chapter." I am sharing a summary of my remarks here for the whole membership.

Over the past year, NYPTA volunteer leaders at both the Chapter and District levels have been involved in multiple activities to help fulfill NYPTA’s mission which is …"to empower and support its members in advancing the practice and profession of physical therapy through advocacy, education and research."

Many of our most successful activities have centered around three main themes: collaboration, engagement, and recognition. During my address, I highlighted a few of these Chapter activities that I believe exemplify these themes.

Our most successful initiative this past year was the increase in the Workers Compensation Medical Fee Schedule that went into effect on April 1, 2019. The Workers Compensation Board “Collaboration, Engagement and Recognition (WCB) adopted new regulations have been the key drivers to our most that include an increase in successful activities” the RVU cap and conversion Peggy factor used to determine reimbursement for PT services.

Peggy Lynam, PT, DPT The result of these changes will be a substantial increase in payment for physical therapist services provided to injured workers in NYS. So, how did we accomplish this win?

First, through collaboration: internally, Chapter leaders, Public Policy committee members, AIPT members, the Chapter lobbyist and our Executive Director (ED) all worked together to see this initiative through to its successful outcome.

Externally, NYPTA hired a consultant to ensure optimal messaging with internal and external stakeholders. Chapter members also collaborated with external groups to garner additional letters of support for our proposal to the WCB. We received support from outside groups such as Friends of Recovery, Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Providers of NYS, and New York Committee for Occupational Safety & Health, and from various State legislators.

Second, through engagement: we initiated a member outreach campaign to support NYPTA’s proposal to the WCB that included the use of email blasts, robocalls to members and a dedicated WC Advocacy landing page on NYPTA’s website. Finally, recognition came into play. The Chapter launched an online media campaign funded by AIPT to increase recognition of our initiative which was based on promoting PT as a safe alternative to opioids for injured workers with chronic pain. This media campaign included: a link to the NY-specific landing page for the MoveforwardPT.com website to increase public awareness, press releases picked up by multiple newsfeeds, an article in the Albany Times Union newspaper, and an appearance by NYPTA representatives on an Albany area cable news show, "Capital Tonight". continued on page 6-7 2 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

New York Physical Therapy Association 971 Albany Shaker Road Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518.459.4499 • Toll-Free: 800.459.4489 Fax: 518.459.8953 www.nypta.org

Editor / Designer Gloria Baker Empire State Physical Therapy is published 6 times yearly, with combined January/February, March/April, May/June, July/ August, September/October and November/December issues. Its purpose is to provide physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and physical therapist/physical therapist assistant students with accurate and timely information relevant to the practice of physical therapy. The editor reserves the right to edit all communications.

Anonymous letters will not be published. Views expressed are those of the author and do not represent the formal position of NYPTA unless expressly stated.

Editorial Board Catherine Talbett, PT, DPT Alanna Pokorski, PT, DPT

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All advertisements in Empire State Physical Therapy must comply with the ethical standards of the APTA. Acceptance of advertisements in this publication does not imply endorsement.

Submission of Material for Publication Submissions should be sent via email to Gloria Baker, Editor, at gbaker@nypta.org. Submissions are subject to the discretion of the editorial board.

Subscriptions

NYPTA members automatically recei ve this publication.

Nonmember subscriptions are $100 (US) or $150 (non-US) annually.

This price includes sales tax, shipping and handling.

Deadlines Editorial and advertising deadlines are the first business day of the month prior to the month of publication.

Chapter Officers

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Speaker Chief Delegate

Peggy Lynam, PT, DPT Michael Tisbe, PT, DPT Keri Gill-Smith, PT, DPT Debra Engel, PT, DPT, MS Robert Streb, PT, PhD James Dunleavy, PT, DPT, MS

Chapter Directors Brooklyn/Staten Island Catskill Central Eastern Finger Lakes Greater New York Hudson Valley Long Island Southern Tier Western

Hammouda Soliman, PT, DPT Tylene Lizardi, PT, DPT, ATC Adam Rufa, PT, DPT Audrey Paslow, PT, DPT Michael Huson, PT, DPT Kaitlyn Parrotte, PT, DPT Nannette Hyland, PT, PhD Keith Perrucci, PT Genevieve Smith, PT, DPT Jacob McPherson, PT, DPT

Chapter Office Staff

Executive Director Kelly Garceau

kgarceau@nypta.org Communications Manager Gloria Baker

gbaker@nypta.org

Membership Coordinator Mariann Kayser

mkayser@nypta.org

Events/CE Coordinator Erin Stack

estack@nypta.org

Copyright 2019 by the New York Physical Therapy Association. Requests for reprints should be directed to Gloria Baker at NYPTA, 971 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110.

www.nypta.org

Another Lobby Day is in the Books! most importantly of all – supporters of physical therapy.

We educated our representatives on the importance of expanding our current direct access provisions in order to ensure more timely access to care for all New Yorkers. Participants also explained the financial hardships faced by our patients due to disproportionately high physical therapy copayments and emphasized the importance of achieving licensure for physical therapist assistants. Updated talking points and new data related to the impact of opioids at the county level helped to facilitate these discussions.

That morning we were also able to attend a speaking event by Assemblyperson Kenneth Zebrowski. Assemblyperson Zebrowski praised the services provided by physical therapists. He also encouraged our continued participation in the legislative process stating that active and persistent participation is one of the best ways to create change.

As the afternoon progressed we finished our meetings and completed our summary forms detailing the results of our interactions. These forms enable chapter office to know which legislative offices need to be followed up with in order to provide any additional information or answer questions.

In the coming weeks we will be following our bills, monitoring for any additional cosponsors, and looking for opportunities to help our bills through committee and eventually to a vote. For any members who were unable to attend Lobby Day, now would be an ideal time to schedule an appointment with your legislator to meet within your local district. Reinforcing the messages sent during Lobby Day and engaging them in another conversation can only help our efforts.

Thank you for all of your efforts to stay up-to-date on the quickly changing legislative issues impacting physical therapy. Please stay tuned for URGENT ALERTS where your feedback may be needed to act in favor or in opposition of a bill that is on the move. We will provide talking points and instructions for following up with your representatives as necessary. Your persistence and actions are necessary to advance and protect our profession. I wish you all the best for a safe, happy, and healthy summer!

Sincerely, Jacob I. McPherson, PT, DPT Chairperson, NYPTA Public Policy Committee

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 3

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What's happening at the 2019 Chapter Conference This October 2019, the NYPTA will be having its bi-annual conference. This is a great opportunity for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students to come together for a weekend of networking and educational programming. This year’s conference is particularly special, as we will be celebrating 50 years of the physical therapist assistant. As the new Program Chair for the NYPTA, my vision for this year’s conference is to attract nationally recognized speakers that can provide outstanding educational experiences.

In planning for this year’s conference, the Research committee has selected Dr. Chad Cook, PT, PhD, MBA, FAPTA, Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists, an internationally recognized physical therapist and educator, who is the Chairperson of the Physical Therapy Department at Duke University, to be the keynote speaker for the research presentations. In addition, this year the program committee has chosen to step outside the realm of physical therapy to welcome Robert Tucker, a top innovation speaker and future trend expert, who will share his expertise on key strategies for a successful career.

We have assembled an outstanding slate of continuing education courses for practicing clinicians and students. The topics range from business management, to documentation, to using social media to grow your practice. Clinical courses in pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiopulmonary, and orthopedics will also be presented. This year, the NYPTA is happy to attract such dynamic speakers as Dr. Marilyn Moffat, Dr. Karen Kemmis, Dr. Michael Mattia, Dr. Mark Amir, Dr. Ellen Godwin, Dr. Ethel Freese, Dr. Juanita Benedict, and Dr. Brittany Popkin. Please see a full list of courses below from an amazing panel of educators and clinicians: • Friday October 18, 2019 o Marilyn Moffat and Karen Kemmis – Full day – “Are You Pushing Your Aging Adults Hard Enough” o Mark Amir and Mike Mattia – Half day – “Practice Management” o NGS Medicare – Half day – “Update on Documentation Guidelines” o Research Presentations • Saturday October 19, 2019 o Ethel Freese – Full day – “Cardiac Rehabilitation for CHF and CABG” o Juanita Benedict – Half day – “Using Social Media to Promote Your Practice” o Ellen Godwin – Half day – “Clinical Practice Guidelines and Gait for Children with CP” o Brittany Popkin – Full day – “Management of Nonarthritic Hip Pathologies” In addition to this slate of impressive speakers, this year’s conference will also have an advocacy workshop on Thursday, October 17, prior to the conference. This workshop was planned collaboratively between the Program, Leadership, and Public Policy committees to present a combination of lecture and lab-based interactive activities to allow participants to become more comfortable with the legislative process.

This year’s NYPTA conference in Saratoga, New York will be the place to be in October! Whether you are a clinician, student, educator, or layperson, the conference will have something educational and exciting for everyone. This event not only provides an outstanding opportunity for continuing education, but it also encourages collaboration, networking, and socialization. Please consider joining us at this year’s NYPTA conference and help celebrate 50 years of the Physical Therapist Assistant!

Respectively submitted by, Michael Masaracchio, PT, DPT, PhD Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy Fellow American Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapists Program Chair – New York Physical Therapy Association

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 5

State of the Chapter 2019 The positive effect of this collaboration and engagement was illustrated by the fact that the WCB received over 600 comment letters supporting our proposed changes to the WC Medical Fee schedule. The end result of this support is that the value of physical therapist services has been recognized by external stakeholders as evidenced by the positive change in the WC medical fee schedule.

Even though the WC initiative was a big win for the Chapter, we are still facing ongoing challenges. So, how are we using collaboration and engagement in meeting these challenges? Probably the biggest challenge over the past year has been payment issues related to new utilization management requirements by Aetna and Anthem. NYPTA representatives, especially the Vice Chair for payment on the Public Policy Committee and our ED have been, and continue to, collaborate with APTA staff and other Chapters to address member concerns related to new protocols implemented by Aetna and Anthem for the authorization of PT services. Chapter members have been engaged through surveys and blast emails to gather data about how these payment changes are impacting PT practice in NYS. How do I see recognition fitting in with our ongoing challenges? I believe we need to continue to strive for more public recognition of NYPTA as a truly collaborative group that not only reaches out to external stakeholders for support for our initiatives, but actively monitors areas where we can reciprocate and provide support for the advocacy efforts of others that fit within our mission and vision. This more reciprocal collaborative approach should assist in our efforts to engage others in our work towards resolving these challenges and gaining recognition of the NYPTA as an important ally.

How do collaboration and engagement underlie other Chapter work that has occurred over the past year? Some examples include: • Opioid Alternative Task Force/Special Committee was created by the BOD to promote physical therapist services as an alternative to avoidable opioid use. This new initiative was based on the success NYPTA has had with WCB messaging to pursue other policy changes within NYS including improved direct access, reduction in PT co-pays and payment advocacy with commercial insurers. The members of this new Special Committee are working with members of existing Chapter committees to pursue the goals of the initiative.

• Marketing & Engagement Committee created an Opioid Speakers Bureau in the spring of 2018 which consists of a pool of members and non-members who are subject matter experts from across the state. In collaboration with the Chapter Communications Manager, this committee has worked with the Erie County Opiate Task Force to develop a half-day conference: Medical Teamwork: The Evolution of Pain Management (scheduled for Nov 2018 but delayed). This is another example of recognition: internally, NYPTA recognizing the expertise of the members of the speaker’s bureau, and externally, Erie County recognizing the value of PT input/expertise.

• NYPTA hired a new Chapter staff member, the Membership Coordinator, who will collaborate with the Membership Committee to update the Membership Liaison program including plans to expand the program to better connect with (engage) both lapsed and renewing members.

• The BOD has approved an Advocacy Workshop which is a collaboration with the Leadership, Public Policy and Program Committees to present a seminar to educate students and PTs/PTAs on how to advocate for the profession with State and Federal legislators. The plan is to hold this workshop during Chapter Conference in October 2019.

6 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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State of the Chapter 2019 • PTA 10K Initiative: the PTA committee is implementing Chapter activities to support this national program and to promote, educate and increase the value of PTA membership in NYS. This committee has re-established District PTA liaisons to better engage PTA members and is working with Program committee for a 50th Anniversary party for PTAs at Chapter conference in October (2019 is the 50th Anniversary of the PTA) • Increased engagement of PTA members was also evident at this year’s DA: the 2018 Chapter Bylaw change that allowed equal representation of PTA members resulted in more PTA delegates this year.

• Opportunities for student member engagement in the Chapter include: the BOD Intern Program, student delegates to the Delegate Assembly, and the Student Special Interest Group (SSIG) These many activities that included collaboration and engagement resulted in another positive outcome: in 2018, the Chapter had the highest membership dues revenue in Chapter history!

In order to promote continued collaboration & engagement, it is important to recognize the work & accomplishments of our members. The Chapter is doing this recognition through “Member Spotlights” in the Chapter online publications and through the Chapter awards that were given out at the DA. The Chapter BOD created two new awards at its spring meeting this year: the “PTA Excellence” award and the “PT of the Year” award.

What do I believe is the secret to our successes with respect to collaboration, engagement & recognition this past year? Every individual member who volunteers his/her time to participate in any way in Chapter and District activities.

In summary, I believe our Chapter is in a very good “State”. Our increased emphasis on collaboration within and outside of the organization, and our continued push to optimize engagement, are leading us in the right direction. On a final note on recognition, I was actually very excited that there were more faces at this year’s Delegate Assembly that I did NOT recognize. I have attended every DA since 1990, serving in multiple roles, so I have gotten to know many Chapter members. The fact that I did not recognize as many delegates as in past years is NOT a sign that I am suffering from early dementia or facial agnosia, but is an indicator of the increased engagement of members which I believe to be a strength of this Chapter. Over the next year, I look forward to collaborating and engaging with all of you as we continue the great work of our Association and strive to gain improved recognition of the value of the physical therapy profession.

Best Regards, Peggy

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 7

Member Spotlight: William O'Keefe, PT, MS Program Director, Physical Therapist Assistant Program Nassau Community College

How long have you been a member of the NYPTA? What is your best experience thus far?

I have been a member of NYPTA since 1992. My best experience thus far is being an active member of the association and utilizing the vast expertise of the members of the association.

Tell us a little about your background, and how your path led you to where you are in your career today.

What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?

I became a physical therapist assistant in 1990 graduating from Nassau Community College. I moved to Colorado and worked as a PTA for a short time at Denver Presbyterian Hospital. When I moved back to NY, I worked in various settings enjoying the flexibility of a career in physical therapy. I was offered a position as a lab assistant at Nassau Community College. In addition, I secured a position working as a physical therapist assistant in a school district on Long Island. I realized I thoroughly enjoyed both positions, practicing in the field and teaching. I became a physical therapist in 1996 after graduating from Mercy College.

It is difficult to state one favorite moment in my career there are so many. One happened while I was at a gas station.

I was filling my car with gas and a man pulled up and called out to me. I looked and it was a patient I had treated. It was so exciting to see him driving a car. You see one of the skills we worked on was transfers from his wheel chair to a car and getting his wheel chair in the car. I was excited to see him able to freely access his community. Another was seeing Alumni of the program being an integral part of the health care team.

What are some of the key opportunities and challenges facing the physical therapy profession?

There are many opportunities and challenges facing the profession. One key opportunity for us is being a vital member of the health care system as it relates to prevention and wellness. One challenge I would like to identify, although there are several, is the projected change in Medicare reimbursement for physical therapy services delivered by a physical therapist assistant. Using a modified reimbursement rate of 85% is short sighted in my opinion. As I believe it excludes the supervisory role of the physical therapist in the treatment episode.

What advice would you give NYPTA members who are new to the profession?

My advice would be to utilize the vast resources to help develop yourself as a professional. The association on both a national and local level, is working to help you and help advance the profession. In addition, your input into the association is vital.

What is a favorite tip you have that you could share with others in our industry?

Remind yourself why you chose this profession as your career. It is a great career, it can be fun while challenging, with high rewards by virtue of impacting people’s lives.

8 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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Member Spotlight (continued): William O'Keefe, PT, MS Program Director, Physical Therapist Assistant Program Nassau Community College

What are you passionate about?

Outside of my passion for my profession, I am passionate about family. I am passionate about adoption. I sat on the board of an adoption agency that specializes in adoption of older children that have not only been in foster care but have experienced failed adoption. This agency empowers the adoptee. I am not on the board currently because I am in the process of becoming a parent to my fourth child.

What else would you like your fellow NYPTA Members to know about you?

I am the father of three fine men and the expectant father of a 17-year-old boy. I have two grandsons and a granddaughter, and they bring me great joy.

What is your favorite app or social media outlet?

Uber What is your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure is boating and traveling.

Research Committee Vacancy The Research Committee is currently seeking a new committee member to join the Research Committee starting July 1, 2019. The primary responsibilities of the Research Committee are to review abstracts for the Chapter Conference, organize and implement a research-related program at the Chapter conference, review applications and recommend funding for the Arthur J. Nelson Research Designated Fund, and serve as consultants to chapter members for research activities. Responsibilities also may include other special projects related to objectives established by the committee.

Although members of the committee are often physical therapists who have earned advanced research degrees, membership is open to clinical experts who can provide input and clinical perspective when reviewing abstracts, grant applications, and when assessing the needs of the membership with regard to research mentorship. Terms of appointment are 4 years.

If you are interested in being considered, please forward your resume or curriculum vitae electronically to research@ nypta.org. Further, feel free to contact a current member of the committee if you have any questions about service on the Research Committee. Current committee members are: • Michael D. Ross PT, DHS, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (Co-Chair) mross@ daemen.edu • Gary Brooks, PT, DrPH (Co-Chair) BrooksG@upstate.edu • Ayse Ozcan Edeer, PT, PhD ayse.edeer@dc.edu • Andrew Ray PT, PhD Andrew.Ray@RoswellPark.org

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 9

Building Something Truly Great Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of the HHS Rehabilitation Network

by JeMe Cioppa-Mosca

It’s sometimes said that the key to success is to find a need and fill it, and that’s exactly what led to the creation of the HSS Rehabilitation Network 25 years ago. I was the Director of Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) Rehabilitation at the time, and we noticed an interesting challenge; the majority of patients at the hospital came from within a 90-mile radius of our main campus on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Continuity of care is essential for healing, but it simply wasn’t feasible for everyone to come back to HSS on an ongoing basis. Patients needed reliable treatment options close to where they lived or worked.

Our vision was to find the best therapy providers and bring them together to form a resource that physicians and patients alike could depend on. We were the first hospital-managed membership network of recommended therapy providers in the country. Hospital for Special Surgery Rehabilitation Network’s primary mission was and continues to be to provide patients who cannot utilize Hospital for Special Surgery for their outpatient rehabilitation, with the highest level of appropriate, continuous care within their own community. From a charter membership of 30 facilities, the Network has expanded to include over 170 sites representing over 900 physical and occupational therapists. Our member locations span as far north as Albany, New York, as far south as Palm Beach County, Florida, as far east as East Hampton, and as far west as Pennsylvania. Looking back on our phenomenal journey to date, here are a few of the lessons that stand out: Set Your Standards High Inventor Charles Kettering said, “High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation.” From day one, the criteria for joining the HSS Rehabilitation Network has been the most robust of any network in the country, and still is today. We evaluate every aspect of care and the patient experience, drawing on the clinical expertise of Hospital for Special Surgery. In addition, all HSS Rehab Network sites are re-visited every 18-24 months.

Find the Best People We began by talking to physicians, local therapists, our staff and their network of friends and family. No place was too far away to pay a personal visit if the quality of care was high, and that’s an attitude that we continue to this day. We were of course looking for clinicians with the right depth of musculoskeletal knowledge, but we were also looking for the right cultural fit. We sought out practice owners whose core values were compatible with our own and with those of Hospital for Special Surgery: excellence, integrity, teamwork, creativity, and passion.

Passionate Governance Since its inception, the Network has been a community partnership. The practices are participating members and are not owned by HSS. As such, we feel that it is essential that they have representation in all major business matters, and the Network is managed by a board of 12 members who are elected every 3 years. There is only one voting HSS member, which is me. The passion, advocacy, and wisdom of our committee is what drives us forward and keeps us connected.

You Get What You Give You can have the best idea in the world, but if you’re not putting 110% of your energies towards it, you’re not going to get sustainable results. Our members and our administrative team work together every day to make the Network the outstanding resource that it continues to be.

Thank you to the HSS community and the Network members who have supported us over all these years-we could not have built such a strong network without you, and the trust that you placed in us is second to none.

I would also like to congratulate each and every member of the HSS Rehabilitation Network on this momentous anniversary-I’m so proud of the work that we’ve done together and the exciting things to come!

10 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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Member Spotlight: Adam Rufa, PT, DPT Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Assistant Professor, SUNY Upstate Medical University

How long have you been a member of the NYPTA? What is your best experience thus far?

I have been a member of the NYPTA for about 19 years. I didn’t get involved with professional advocacy for the first 7 years of my career. I was caught up with trying to figure out how to be a good PT and I didn’t give professional involvement much thought. Then I went to my first delegate assembly and I was amazed at all the great work members were doing for the profession. A few years later I attended my first House of Delegates which solidified my commitment to stay involved in the profession.

Tell us a little about your background, and how your path led you to where you are in your career today.

What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?

When I graduated PT school in 2002 I saw myself being a private practice owner. My first job was in a small outpatient private practice owned by two great PTs who were very involved in the profession. Over the next several years I worked for 2 other private practices and was fortunate to have strong clinical and business mentors.

I was still strongly considering being a business owner when I got a call from my alma mater, SUNY Upstate Medical University. One of their faculty members was retiring and they needed someone to teach their Orthopedics course.

I had not thought much about academics but figured I would give teaching the course a try. I can still remember driving in on the first day with a sinking feeling and wondering what made me think I could actually teach a class.

After teaching that class I realized that academics would be a great fit for me. It would give me the opportunity to teach, perform research, be of service to the profession, and continue with patient care. It wasn’t until 3-4 years after teaching that first class that I was hired as a fulltime faculty member at SUNY Upstate.

I have now been a faculty member for 7 years and I am excited to go to work (just about) every day. I get to spend time with motivated students and colleagues, and I am constantly challenged to learn more and be a more effective professor.

One aspect of academics I have really enjoyed is research. It is fun to come up with an idea, design a project and work with a team to make it happen. I wasn’t expecting to go back to school for a third time but to help improve my skills as a researcher I started a PhD program at NOVA Southeastern University. This has been a great experience and I will hopefully be finished in the next year.

What are some of the key opportunities and challenges facing the physical therapy profession?

I think one of the biggest challenges for the profession is staying responsive to the literature. There is so much good literature being produced and it is essential that we continue to change based on the best available evidence. We also need to work hard on creating a strong brand for our profession. Consumers and policymakers need to see us as the highly educated professionals that we are.

What advice would you give NYPTA members who are new to the profession?

Stay humble, take a skeptical approach to analyzing your clinical experience (confirmation bias is difficult to spot), and learn how to be a strong critical thinker.

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 11

Member Spotlight (continued): Adam Rufa, PT, DPT Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Assistant Professor, SUNY Upstate Medical University

What is a favorite tip you have that you could share with others in our industry?

Learn how to think, not what to think. This is not easy, but improving my critical thinking skills has been extremely valuable in all aspects of my life.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about empowering patients with chronic pain to live the best life they can. I get to do that by teaching the next generation of PTs, producing research to enhance our understanding of pain, and by treating patients.

What else would you like your fellow NYPTA Members to know about you?

I have three great kids (Amelia 13, Oliver 11, and Will 11), a wife who is very supportive, a dog who likes to sleep, and three leopard geckos who don’t do much but eat mealworms. I like to take on building projects around the house (working on finishing the basement right now) and I have a disassembled 1953 Ford F-100 in my garage that I plan on putting back together someday. I also get out on the ice and play hockey when I get a chance.

What is your favorite app or social media outlet?

My students all talk about Snapchat and Instagram but I am old fashioned and stay on Facebook and Twitter. Social media has its problems, but interacting with brilliant physical therapists online has been a big influence on my development as a critical thinker and professional. Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter! @arufa What is your guilty pleasure?

I really like eclairs. Delicious flaky crust, sweet chocolate on top and creamy custard in the middle. How could you not like that?

Do you Know someone who should be a member spotlight? Email mkayser@nypta.org with their name and email address.

12 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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The Annual Leadership Development Workshop I’ve written previously about current hashtags like #PTTransforms and #BetterTogether. I was recently struck by the name of our consumer website – “Move Forward PT.” It’s a phrase I see encapsulating a lot of the work happening at our Chapter level, especially as it concerns our momentum with Lobby Day, Delegate Assembly, and House of Delegates. It reminds me of the importance of governance; it offers us the opportunity, as a group, to “move forward” with a common vision. It was also a theme I saw echoed at our annual Leadership Development Workshop.

Scheduled for the Friday afternoon prior to Delegate Assembly, the Workshop is a free, five-hour seminar hosted by the Leadership Committee where attendees can learn about the organizational structure and governance of the APTA. This year, we were honored to welcome back Dr. Matt Hyland and Dr. Lynn Rivers as our speakers and host 15 participants that included a mix of practicing physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapy students.

Dr. Hyland began by detailing the history and set up of our professional organization and, after learning about the background of the APTA, participants had the opportunity to sit in on the Spring Board of Directors Meeting and see the Board discuss a motion. Following this, they returned to learn about participation in governance where Dr. Rivers reviewed the guidelines for the Delegate Assembly and House of Delegates. At the conclusion of the workshop, attendees joined in a mock Delegate Assembly, debating current motions that are coming before the House of Delegates in Chicago in early June.

Our Committee enjoys offering this workshop to show how you can let your voice be heard, be a part of changes happening within your Chapter, and speak up for national initiatives that can help advance your practice alongside equally passionate colleagues! As part of continuing to “move forward” as a Committee, we are also honored and excited to offer a new Workshop this coming fall. It is a special addition to our biannual Chapter conference, and looks to develop your skillset to effectively advocate your vision for our profession with your legislative representatives.

It was a collaborative effort brought forth by the Leadership, Public Policy, and Program Committees, and hopes to instill confidence in you as we look to advance our profession in New York State. It is another chance to try to offer more approachable, inspiring ways to engage with your Chapter on a level that works for you. Please look for more information coming soon! As we continue to “move forward,” as a profession, we’d love to have you with us.

Audrey Paslow PT, DPT Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy Leadership Committee Chair

www.nypta.org

May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 13

2019 NYPTA Award Winners

Dr. Marilyn Moffat Distinguished Service Award Matthew Hyland Susan Miller NYPTA Lifetime Service Award Stephen Lahr

Leslie J. Wood Outstanding Service to Chapter Award Michael Tisbe J.J. Mowder-Tinney

Doreen Frank Legislative Award Jacob McPherson

Merit Award Jeremy Crow Public Relations Award Beyond Basics New York Chapter Appreciation Award Keri Gill-Smith Leadership Development Award Audrey Paslow Certificate of Appreciation Joanne Katz - Nominating Committee Susan Miller - Judicial/Reference Committee Michael Ross - Research Committee Outstanding Service to District Award Elizabeth Tangney - Brooklyn/Staten Island District Yvonne Egitto - Catskill District Maureen Mancuso - Central District Doreen Frank - Eastern District Mike Huson - Finger Lakes District Mary Libutti - Hudson Valley Patricia Benz - Long Island District Genevieve Smith - Southern Tier District David Faccini - Western District

14 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

Minority Affairs Student Future Leader Award Niki Chan - Hunter College Minority Affairs Student Award Jael McCants - New York University Student Participation Award Elizabeth BrontĂŠ Miller - SUNY Stony Brook Kelly Rowland - Clarkson University Jenna Zajac - Nazareth College Marin Graham - NY Institute of Technology Zachary Moore - Herkimer College Emily Rubin - Hunter College Allie Cartier - Utica College Derek Sturdevant - SUNY Broome Community College Dan Staples - Daemen College Aaron Kattan - Touro College Autumn Hansen - Ithaca College Bradley Vargo - Niagara County Community College Nicolas Jiacopello - Touro College Tyler Soltis - University at Buffalo Kristen Lettenberger - New York University Adam Krause - SUNY Downstate Javier Artega - Mercy College

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News & Announcements

Congratulations to the 2019 - 2021 Elected Officers Keri Gill-Smith, PT, DPT Treasurer Debra Engel, PT, DPT, MS Secretary Roger Herr, PT, MPA Chief Delegate Nannette Hyland, PT, PhD Nominating Committee Member

Elected Delegates to the 2020 HOD

Jeremy Crow James Dunleavy Nannette Hyland

Theresa Marko Michael Mattia Jacob McPerson

Marilyn Moffat Audrey Paslow Lynn Rivers

Adam Rufa Tracy Sawyer Robert Streb

Connect with us on Social Media!

Upcoming Events Chapter Conference October 18-19, 2019 APTA Events APTA House of Delegates June 9-11, 2019 Chicago, IL NEXT Conference and Exposition June 12-15, 2019 Chicago, IL

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to Competent Professional Services Professional misconduct and unlicensed practice of the professions are against the law!

To report suspected cases of professional misconduct or unlicensed practice of the professions, call 800-442-8106 or email conduct@mail.nysed.gov.

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There’s no better way to: • Communicate • Engage • Share information

May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 15

NYPTA 2019 Spring BOD-DA Photo Gallery

16 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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NYPTA 2019 Spring BOD-DA Photo Gallery

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 17

NYPTA 2019 Spring BOD-DA Photo Gallery

18 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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NYPTA 2019 Spring BOD-DA Photo Gallery

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 19

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 21

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May/June, 2019 • Empire State Physical Therapy 23

New York Physical Therapy Association A Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association 971 Albany Shaker Road Latham, NY 12110

24 Empire State Physical Therapy • May/June, 2019

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