December 2022 PULSE

DECEMBER 2022

“I LOVE IT HERE” - PPS RECAP table. There we found a bucket filled with a set of

Whenever possible I try to attend the American Physical Therapy Association’s Annual Conference for the private practice section.

This year I was joined by Mike Durand, Kristen Forster, Drew Gallagher and Erin Walsh.

The event was held in Denver, Colorado and was attended by a record breaking 1800 participants! The conference draws from the entire spectrum of private practice providers. It’s not uncommon for the CEOs of the largest physical therapy companies to be in the same room as the person dreaming of opening a new practice.

Over the years, I have been fortunate that many of my colleagues and peers have become lifelong friends. The educational content is often enlightening; however, I always look forward to reconnecting with “my people.”

Sharing success stories and challenges with people I respect and trust continues to be an important growth and learning opportunity for me.

In addition to the educational content and social scene, one of the hallmarks of attending the conference is the keynote address. The speakers are always very talented, and their message is usually a thought-provoking call to action. This year’s speaker Clint Pulver rocked the house! Literally!

Clint is an award-winning speaker, author and accomplished rock drummer who has toured professionally. He incorporates his drumming into his presentations. Somewhere around the midpoint of his speech, he encouraged everyone to look underneath the

Welcome New Residents!

Congratulations to PTSMC’s Orthopaedic Residency Class of 2023! They begin January 2023.

Briana Boulerice, PT, DPT - Waterbury Brittany Kearney, PT, DPT - Westbrook Elena Masiello, PT, DPT - Wallingford

drumsticks for everyone!

At one point Clint lead the entire room through a series of drumming challenges. It was high energy and great fun as 1600-1700 of us pounded away on buckets and notebooks!

In addition to being fun, his message was a powerful one.

He bills himself as the “Undercover Millennial.” His book, I LOVE IT HERE ~ How Great Leaders Create Organizations Their People Never Want To Leave, and claim to fame are based on having conducted “thousands” of undercover interviews with employees across the country. His biggest finding is that employee turnover has everything to do with the person managing them.

IN THIS ISSUE Clinician’s Corner by Elena Masiello, Wallingford Physical Therapist Why is the room spinning?

PTSMC Standards of Clinical Practice: Trigger Point Dry Needling HR Buzz Christmas and New Years Holidays Employee Assistance Program 2023 401(k) and HSA Limits Have Increased Employee Spotlight Christine Hill, Referral Coordinator YHP The Extra Mile: The CARP Method

By Kristen Forster DEI: Equity Through Giving Back

By Marilex Santiago #GETMOVING Recap

He went on to challenge us all about employee engagement BRAGS and loyalty. He provided tools to identify talent, build successful teams, and reinforce a positive workplace culture.

One of his stated goals is “to help leaders recognize “Very competent Physical Therapists! Warm, possibilities where others see problems.”

StriveHub Fab 5

Clint’s message resonated with me, because it is very similar to the message I often tell myself and others. PTSMC will only be as good as the people we are able to attract and grow! I am proud of the culture we’ve created here at PTSMC and look forward to our continued success in the coming year. I want all PTSMC employees to LOVE IT HERE! Thanks,

Alan

friendly, and professional atmosphere.

Wonderfully flexible scheduling promoting adherence to therapeutic program.” - Danbury “My physical therapist, Shawn (Nash), is awesome. He is very knowledgeable and professional. He has a wonderful demeanor and cares about the patients needs and that is the main reason for my high score. Also, the receptionist is very welcoming and friendly.”

- Avon “Our Dr. is so impressed with Ruby’s progress. On top of that, she is comfortable there and enjoys going. As a mom, I feel safe dropping her off and picking her up when she’s done. Fully recommend!!” - Watertown I’ve received outstanding patient care from Lucas (Ferreira) who has demonstrated compassion, empathy, and great bedside manners. Always has open dialogue and encourages me to reflect on my progress along with providing excellent feedback at every session. Couldn’t ask for more!” - Fairfield “The therapists are very knowledgeable and they share that with the client. They are professional and know exactly how to help the client with the nagging problem that brought them to the facility. They are kind and always aware of the comfort level and needs of their client.”

- East Hampton

CLINICIAN’S CORNER Why is the room spinning?

By: Elena Masiello, PT, DPT Physical Therapist at PTSMC Wallingford Diagnosing patients presenting with dizziness can be challenging, especially for physical therapists who are not specialized in this area. Vestibular disorders and their differential diagnoses, albeit many are covered in physical therapy programs, are not always straightforward, and they may originate from a dysfunction in one or more of the following systems: musculoskeletal, vestibular, neurologic, cardiovascular and/or metabolic. Seeing a vestibular evaluation on the day’s schedule may generate anxiety for some therapists due to these factors.

One of the most common vestibular disorders we see in the outpatient setting is cervicogenic dizziness (CGD); however, “common” does not necessarily translate to straightforward. How do we effectively rule out other, possible sinister pathologies? What tests can be used to rule in or rule out CGD? Which tests should be included in a general vestibular examination? What should the flow of treatment look like for each individual based on their unique symptoms? What are effective exercise and manual therapy progressions for these types of patients? The answers to these questions have many caveats; however, Jung, et al. (2017) conducted a case series (Level IV evidence) of seven patients which attempted to describe the optimal clinical decision making utilized in the management of patients with CGD.

Figure 1

In their study, Jung et al. included seven patients whose subjective included neck pain in addition to at least one of the following symptoms: dizziness, unsteadiness, light-headedness, and/or visual disturbance. The therapists also utilized other common signs and symptoms associated with CGD to differentiate between conditions, including cervical ROM deficits, decreased suboccipital and cervical paraspinal musculature extensibility, poor neck stability, altered sense of cervical joint position, and non-optimal posturing. Since CGD is primarily a diagnosis of exclusion, patients were selected based on negative neurological (i.e. with cranial nerve examination, Hoffman’s and coordination tests, and dermatome, myotome, reflex, gait and balance assessments), vestibular (to rule out posterior, anterior and horizontal canal BPPV, vestibular hypofunction, etc.), cervical artery, cervical instability, and orthostatic hypotension screening. Figure 1 demonstrates the clinical decision-making utilized in the treatment of these patients after physical therapy was determined appropriate. All patients in this study demonstrated temporal relationship between neck pain/stiffness and dizziness, and all subjects experienced episodic dizziness associated with head movements.

The authors also compiled a list of clinical features of differential diagnoses which are frequently encountered in the outpatient setting (Table 2) in order to improve the ease of differentiating between similar conditions. Other differential diagnoses which are important to rule out are Meniere’s disease, Chiari malformation, and cerebellar pathology.

The article then goes on to describe how the seven participants diagnosed with CGD were treated for this condition with incorporation of manual techniques and sensorimotor retraining. The therapists included progressions of the following: cervical spine mobilizations, STM, postural re-education, VOR retraining, and deep neck flexor activation/stabilization exercises, the specifics of which are located in the article’s appendix. All seven patients in this case series demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements on all selected measures upon discharge. These included the DHI, Patient-Specific Functional Scale, and a numeric rating scale of dizziness.

It is imperative that we as physical therapists are able to identify when there is a need to refer out, when care should be co-managed, and when conservative care is warranted. In absence of other underlying pathology, dizziness can be caused by abnormal afferent activity in the cervical spine and therefore result in altered proprioception and decreased efficacy of vestibular reflexes. There is a need for further investigation into creating a clinical practice guideline for treatment of this condition. In lieu of this, Jung, et al. has provided an extremely valuable resource for clinicians, and a very comprehensive 4-step guideline to identifying and treating patients with cervicogenic dizziness.

For more information and to review the specific testing performed, interventions used, and results attained, please see full article: Jung, FC, Mathew, S, Littmann, AE, Donald, CWM. Clinical decision making in the management of patients with cervicogenic dizziness: a case series. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47:874–84. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2017.7425.

STUDENT PROGRAM UPDATE

CLINICAL EXCELLENCE Upcoming Courses INTERNAL COURSES Upper Extremity February, 2023 Location: PTSMC Wallingford 8:30am - 12:30pm Instructor: Russ Woodman DOCS Requirement

SPONSORED COURSES Myopain Dry Needling 2 & 3

DN-2 Foundations II: February 3-5, 2023 DN-3 Advanced: May 19-21, 2023

This month, Elizabeth Chew from Springfield University begins her affiliation in Windsor with Mike McGowan.

CE181: Owens Recovery Science: Personalized Blood Flow Restriction Rehabilitation

We know that BFR is a highly requested continued ed topic and SHU is hosting a one-day course this year. Please note this is an “external course” not affiliated with PTSMC.

Date & Time: December 3, 2022, 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Location: 4000 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT- Center for Healthcare Education at SHU CEH: 8.5 Cost: $600

Course details & registration here:

https://www.sacredheart.edu/academics/colleges--schools/college-of-health-professions/departments/physical-therapy/continuin g-education-opportunities/ce181-owens-recovery-science-personali zed-blood-flow-restriction-rehabilitation/

Email Mallory Mason at ConEd@ptsmc.com for all sign ups or questions.

All course attendance must be approved by Partner/Director.

PTSMC Standards of Clinical Practice: Trigger Point Dry Needling Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) is an effective physical therapy treatment utilized at PTSMC. Clinicians require training to perform this advanced technique with patients. PTSMC has established standards outlined in this document. Trained dry needling therapists are to comply by these standards around delivering care to our patients and further comply with state law.

TRAINING • It is required that a clinician has one year experience since their license date and recommended minimum of two years' clinical experience before attending a TDN course.

• PTSMC financially supports the attendance to MYOPAIN Trigger Point Dry Needling programs. The Clinical Excellence team will notify the Compliance Officer after the clinician signs up for a TDN- sponsored course.

In the case that a clinician independently attends a MYOPAIN Trigger Point Dry Needling program, that clinic’s partner/director or the clinician must notify the Compliance Officer prior course attendance.

• All clinicians attending TDN courses will follow up with the Compliance Officer for pre- and post-course work.

If a clinician is hired with prior TDN training, they need to complete the following prior to dry needling a PTSMC patient: 1. Complete Prework (complete video and review standards document and consent form) 2. Pass internal check off pertaining to trained areas PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS After completing a TDN course: 1. Perform 8 practice hours on the body parts trained on before performing TDN on a PTSMC patient 2. Include a PTSMC TDN Mentor/Expert for collaboration on “first” time areas of patient treatments, especially in high-risk areas RECERTIFICATION Myopain Seminars website outlines requirements to maintain certification when nearing the five-year expiration.

Physical therapists who are eligible will be finically supported during this recertification process. (Pertains to clinicians certified after July 2018.) (https://www.myopainseminars.com/how-to-maintain-your-myopain-seminars-certification/ )

Attention all recent DOCs grads! Are you interested in being a CI? We’d love to have you involved in PTSMC’s Student Program! Juliann Chacko, Student Program Coordinator, will be hosting info sessions in the coming weeks to share a brief overview, review FAQs and provide an opportunity for some Q&A. Upcoming sessions: Monday 12/12/22 3:30 – 4:00 PM Tuesday 12/13/22 3:30 – 4:00 PM Please email Juliann.Chacko@ptsmc.com for the meeting link – thank you!

UPCOMING JOURNAL CLUB AND CASE DICUSSION DATES Stay tuned for 2023 CD and JC dates! *Please note, there is no CD or JC in December.

All meetings are 12:00- 1:00 pm on TEAMS. Email Danielle.Dunn@ptsmc.com to be added to the meeting group.

Continuing education opportunities list https://ptsmc.egnyte.com/dl/RCnzB8GqVU/Clinical_Excellence _List_of_Courses.xlsx_

Use the link above for a list of PTSMC Internal, PTSMC Sponsored, and External course opportunities. Please reach out to Mallory Mason via coned@ptsmc.com if you have any questions.

APTA & CTAPTA included!

HUMAN RESOURCES

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FOR 2022 AND NEW YEAR’S DAY HOLIDAY FOR 2023 WILL BE OBSERVED AS FOLLOWS: Christmas Day- observed on Monday, December 26th New Year’s Day- observer on Monday, January 1st

ATTENTION 401(K) PARTICIPANTS, 2023 LIMITS HAVE INCREASED!

• The employee deferral limit has increased from $20,500 in 2022, to $22,500 in 2023.

• If you are 50 years old or will be turning 50 in 2023, you are eligible for additional catch-up contributions for a total deferral of $30,000. This means you can contribute the maximum of $22,500 plus the catch-up amount of $7,500 in 2023.

• Reminder, employees who would like to make a change to their 401(k) biweekly contributions for the 1st quarter of 2023 must complete the request by Friday, December 16, 2022, to be effective with the January 11, 2023 payroll. Login to your account at: https://myplan.johnhancock.com/login and click on Manage and Contributions.

ATTENTION HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (HSA) PARTICIPANTS, 2023 LIMITS HAVE INCREASED!

• Individual contribution limit has increased from $3650 in 2022, to $3850 in 2023.

• Family contribution limit has increased from $7300 in 2022, to $7750 in 2023.

• If you are 55 years old or turning 55 in 2023, you are eligible for catch-up contributions in the amount of $1,000. This means you can contribute the maximum of individual or family plus the catch-up amount of $1,000; $4,850 and $8,750 respectively. Requests for changes to your HSA contribution can be emailed to payroll@ptsmc.com.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Are personal problems affecting your focus and performance at work? You are not alone. Personal problems can affect the lives of employees both at home and at work. We would like to remind all employees about our Employee Assistance Program- EAP. PTSMC offers all employees, employee’s dependents, and employee’s family members access to no-cost guidance and support through United Healthcare’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). When life’s events become challenging, the EAP is a great resource to seek guidance.

Who may use the EAP? All PTSMC employees and their dependents or family members can utilize the EAP. No UHC membership required.

Is the EAP Confidential?

The EAP service is strictly confidential. No one will know you have contacted the UHC EAP unless written authorization is provided.

Is there a cost?

There is no cost to you or your family members for EAP sessions. If you are referred to a treatment resource beyond the EAP, UHC EAP will help you locate providers covered under your medical insurance plan.

Common issues EAP can help address: • Unlimited telephonic assistance on common employee/workplace issues • Life advice and professional counseling • Caregiving • Balancing personal and professional life • Divorce/marital problems • Depression and Anxiety • Stress management • Crisis intervention • Childcare and Eldercare • Eating disorders • Gambling addiction • Financial services • Legal services Where to begin utilizing EAP services?

Call United Healthcare’s EAP line, so you can be guided to the right EAP recourse and help: 1-888-887-4114. The line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!

EMPLOYEE NEWS

NEW EMPLOYEES

CURRENT JOB OPPORTUNITIES Physical Therapist Danbury East Hampton Middletown New Haven New London Southbury

Amanda Baldwin, Westbrook PSC Welcome Back!

Bridget Bognanno, Guilford PT Aide

Chaylea Finn, Branford Physical Therapist

Patient Services Coordinator New Haven New London Orange

Athletic Trainer East Hampton Westbrook Kat Fotou, Groton PSC

Jessica Green, Westbrook Patient Care Coordinator

Terran Travis, Lock Street Physical Therapist

Maggie Olson Director of Marketing

Sam Zhu, Groton Physical Therapist

PT Aide Danielson East Hampton Essex Groton New Haven Southbury Watertown Westbrook

Float PSC Admin

NOT PICTURED: Karla Denis, Southington PT Aide Jennifer Melaragno, Avon PSC Amanda Warner, Plainville PT Aide

Check www.PTSMC.com/job-openings for our most up-to-date postings,and feel free to share!

Call Karen or email at karen.havlicek@ptsmc.com if you are interested in a position.

Employee

Spot light Christine Hill, Referaral Coordinator YHP Road to PTSMC For those of you who know the name, Christine Hill, you know she is all things Yale Health Plan for PTSMC! Let’s get to know the Christine who is behind the phone and Teams calls.

Christine and her family- Leah 16, Eliza 13, stepdaughter Bella 19, and husband Broden- live in North Branford. Christine grew up in East Haven and received her BA in psychology at Southern Connecticut State University - something that has surprisingly come in handy in the healthcare customer service world! She started her career at CT Occupational Health Network, an organization that was strictly for workers comp cases. As care coordinator, she did authorization for diagnostics, physical therapy, orthopedics, and neurology. This was before workers comp became “complicated.” From there, Christine went on the work for Temple, where she spent 18 years!

At Temple, she started out doing billing and accounts receivable for about two years. She then advanced to Office Manager of four locations for four years. Temple then did a big reshuffling in which Christine moved to supervise the East Haven location where she was introduced to the Yale contract, and it stuck with her ever since! After the East Haven location closed, Christine went to New Haven and was the Yale Health Plan referrals number one person.

Over the years, Christine was able to build up a robust network of contacts in healthcare. Luckily when Temple decided to terminate the Yale contract, she had that great network to rely on. Mike Durand, PTSMC’s VP of Business Development was one of those contacts. Before even knowing about the contract change, Christine had reached out to Mike and said that if PTSMC ever got the Yale contract, to keep her in mind. Luckily again, he did! Christine started at PTSMC in 2020, and her department has grown in addition to herself, into a team of two full-time and one part-time employees. She absolutely loves having a team!

Outside of Work A few other things Christine loves in her personal time are getting nails done, a “bad” TJ MAXX obsession, wineries and workouts such as Pilates, yoga, and barre. Her and her family are always active and up to something, whether it’s sports, traveling, or even going to concerts! Her daughter Leah plays softball, and her daughter Eliza plays field hockey, so she’s always running around to practices and games. As a family, they love paddle boarding together.

They also really enjoy traveling, especially going on cruises and going glamping!! About six times a year they travel with campers, cook gourmet meals, and meet up with other family members while “camping” in style.

Christine and her family also LOVE to go to concerts together.

Recently they have been to a lot of country concerts and seem to have the best luck because the girls have been ON STAGE with Kenny Chesney and Old Dominion and recently took a selfie with Keith Urban! Luck seems to follow them around to more than just concerts, because they once were given free passes to “Canon Day” for the Yankees and got to meet some of the players! What incredible family moments and memories. Christine says she never did any of this stuff growing up- her girls are so lucky!

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS Raymond Seward Alan Balavender Nick Maltese Danielle Butsch Shyanne Metzger Heather Erb-Dowling Meagan Hoffman Joan Porper Cory Wolski Elmer Galvez Mallory Mason Nikki Matarazzo Melissa Walton Anderson Darr Kyleen Sidwell Michelle Linicus Jen Ashman

1 4 5 5 5 5 5 6 8 8 9 9 10 11 13 14 14 Angelica Lozano Gomez 14 Rob Bass 16 Naomi Rascati 16 Juliann Chacko 18 Nathan Panico 18 Natalie Calo 19 Nicole Jones 20 Rebecca Infosino 20 Keaton Mangi 21 Emily Pelz 21 Jenna Hancock 23 Alyssa Griffo 24 Amy Placeres 25 Mike McGowan 25 Bryan O'Neill 26 Christine Raffone 27 Scott Cameron 28 Kilah Mendes 30 Becca Ferlazzo 31 Mary Clark 31 Ally Hickey 31

Guilford Admin Guilford Lock Street Putnam West Hartford Westbrook Admin Avon Lock Street Admin Wallingford Watertown Westbrook Putnam New London Simsbury Wethersfield Middletown Wallingford Orange Westbrook Watertown Newington Wallingford New London Waterbury New London East Hampton Waterbury Windsor New Milford Admin Westbrook New Haven New Haven New Haven Watertown

DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES Caidyn Galovich Collin Casey Nathan Panico Sal Sinsigalli Nico Rosa Brianna Annunziato Kristen Tolo

Emily Searle

PT Aide PT Aide Patient Care Coordinator Patient Care Coordinator PT Aide PT Aide Patient Services Coordinator

East Hampton Wallingford Westbrook West Hartford Watertown Branford Windsor

Physical Therapist

Branford/ Lock Street

Becky Passante

Physical Therapist

Guilford

Sandra Boccialetti

Director Of Human Resources

Admin

20 years

CONGRATULATIONS TO McKENZIE DANIELS ON HER PROMOTION! Just sixteen months ago, McKenzie Daniels arrived in our PTSMC Newington clinic, bringing over four years of customer service expertise in the retail sector along with strong administrative experience working with vendors and technicians. The transition from retail to healthcare was a smooth and enjoyable one for McKenzie. Even during a string of months transitioning to new leadership in Newington, McKenzie rose to the top, displaying tremendous professionalism and compassion to patients and staff. When asked to comment on McKenzie, Director Christina Mogelnicki gushed, “McKenzie is this amazing person who you ask her to do something, and she blows me away by already have taken the initiative to get it done and also took the next four steps! We are so lucky to have her as part of our team. She helps all staff and always does what is best for our patients.”

McKenzie is pursuing a certificate of Health Information Technology at Tunxis Community College. She enjoys spending time with family, taking care of the many house plants she has, and visiting local craft breweries.

She is so excited to step into this position and become more active in the office and community, as well as taking on a leadership role with PT Aides and Patient Care Coordinators.

CONGRATULATIONS TO BETSY HOLT ON HER PROMOTION!

UPCOMING END OF MONTH DEADLINES NOVEMBER END OF MONTH Timeframe Documentation FD Balancing 11/1 - 11/30 12/6 at 6:00am 12/7 at 7:00pm DECEMBER MID MONTH Timeframe Documentation FD Balancing 12/1 - 12/14 12/20 at 6:00am 12/21 at 3:00pm DECEMBER END OF MONTH Timeframe Documentation FD Balancing 12/1 - 12/31 1/6 at 6:00am 1/9 at 7:00pm

The

"LOVE WHAT YOU DO AND CALL IT WORK!" This is Betsy Holt’s favorite quote and how she describes what she does at PTSMC Simsbury. Betsy started on Day 1 of the Simsbury clinic’s opening on March 16th, 2020. Does that day ring a bell to everyone? Yes, the official date that the COVID-19 pandemic began for us all!

Extra MILE

Since that very scary pandemic first day, she has delivered on PTSMC’s PT for Life culture and managed the front desk operations of a start up clinic to now four full time clinicians.

Partner Emily Hansen says, “She is definitely the glue that keeps our crew working together so well. I personally rely on her, and I know the staff looks to her for answers on all things front desk, insurance and her amazing energy and smiles.”

The CARP Method

Betsy lives in the next town over in Granby with her husband Rick. They just celebrated 30 years of marriage.

They have two daughters Lauren, who is an Athletic Trainer at UNC Chapel Hill, and Cali, who is a technical theater assistant at Holyoke Community College. Betsy enjoys hiking, biking, gardening, and reading.

Why does this promotion excite Betsy? Daily, she is impressed at the level of care provided to patients by the PT's she works with. She always looks forward to asking the question: How can I help? It’s the best question, because usually Betsy can! Patients come in scared and vulnerable, and most likely in a great deal of pain.

Helping them navigate appointments and insurance questions are just a small thing she can provide, yet, they make a huge difference to patients. Sometimes it’s just listening to the injury and pain that they are in and giving them hope that PT will help. “Compassion is a huge part of me, I’m in the right place. And I look forward to the PSA responsibilities and continuing to make a difference.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO MICHAELA HORNE ON HER PROMOTION!

Congratulations to Michaela Horne on her promotion to Patient Services Administrator in the Putnam clinic. “MAC,” as she is called in the clinic, joined the Putnam clinic in April. She quickly established herself as knowledgeable, organized and customer centric. Prior to joining PTSMC, MAC had three previous healthcare roles over a 15 year period; receptionist, prior authorization specialist and most recently a site coordinator for a medical imaging practice where she oversaw staff and the front office operations.

By Kristen Forster, Director of Operations CARP stands for Control Acknowledge Re-focus and Problem Solve.

Net Promoter Score (NPS) feedback is a great opportunity to put this method into action. When customers share negative feedback, they are giving us the opportunity to do something about it. Sometimes it’s a simple phone call and sometimes it’s a callout for a real problem that we may never have known about.

Patients who feel heard become patients who come back!

Let’s take a look at the steps in the process.

CONTROL – Don’t let the situation get out of hand. Taking control and demonstrating genuine concern instills confidence in the patient that you care and are going to help resolve the situation.

ACKNOWLEDGE – Show empathy. Listen to the problem and re-state it back to the patient to be sure you understand what they are looking for in a resolution.

RE-FOCUS – Keep the conversation on track toward a resolution.

Focus on what CAN be done to fix the situation.

PROBLEM-SOLVE – Create a plan with the patient. Working Director Tom Harney’s thoughts on MAC: “MAC is amazing! It’s like she has been here all along. I am worry free about our front desk operations, and I look forward to MAC’s efficient ways to assist in developing my leadership together on a solution that meets the patient’s needs and agreeing on a and clinic ops.” plan shows an investment in In her free time, MAC loves to cook and try new recipes. She has a large collection of cookbooks and printed making things right. recipes that she likes to look through when trying to figure out what is for dinner. It brings her great joy when she can find a new recipe that gets added to the dinner rotation. She also enjoys gardening and spending time with her animals; five cats, four goats and 30 something chickens. She hopes to get bees next year.

MAC is super excited for the new position as she loves change and a challenge. She also loves the people that she gets to spend her days working with. In MAC’s words, “They truly are a great group and make the workday fun!”

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

#GETMOVING

Triple Threat Challenge Congratulations to all who participated in the latest #GetMoving challenge. There were 15 teams of three this round, and the challenge was: all team members get active for at least 30 min for their team to “earn” the day. There were also a few bonus opportunities to share in the holiday fun: • Post your Halloween outfits, • Post a goal to keep you healthier over Thanksgiving week • Post a photo of celebrating Thanksgiving with friends, family or food Congratulations to the winners - the top 5 teams with the most points!

Busy Kicking Butts Jen Bastos, Meghan Blanusa, Roslin Dellavecchia (all Naugatuck) Cirque de Sore Legs Eric Horne, Jen Ashman, Shelby Howe (all Simsbury) Get Sweaty!

Becky Sauve, Debra Philcox, Liannie Negron (all Naugatuck) Locked and Loaded Danielle Butsch, Linda Mullen, Natalie Swanson (all Lock Street) Powered By Caffeine & Mitochondria Karin Larson, Miranda Jasienowski, Steve de Castro (all Groton) Way to go everyone - it was a very close finish!

Engagement & Wellness Calendar December PTSMC Food Drives

Dates vary Nov. - Dec.

Flu Shots & COVID-19 Vaccine Initiative

Now - Feb. 10

Ugly Sweater Contest

Dec. 1 - 23

DEI

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Equity Through giving back

By Marilex Santiago, Administrative Coordinator

The physical therapy profession is all about making a difference in the lives of others, and we have the ability to do this inside and outside of the clinic. DEI is all about improving how people are being treated and are treating others. We are dedicated to removing barriers that may inhibit progress towards a healthier, more equitable future. PTSMC is continually looking for ways to support and give back to people, organizations and causes that are in need of resources through community outreach. Here are some tips on how you can keep DEI in mind when helping the community.

• Look to surrounding underserved communities that may need help. Many underrepresented groups live in underserved communities due to systemic barriers such as poorly funded educational programs, and housing and food insecurity.

• When choosing an organization to support, make sure your clinic is well educated on what the organization does for its community. For example, speakers, tours, or opportunities to volunteer are great opportunities to help your team feel more connected to the cause.

• Be sure to ask organizations what their specific needs are and see if there is opportunity to offer additional assistance. Sometimes organizations could just use some social media shares or educational resources.

• Try to integrate volunteer efforts throughout the year. We already have a great start this holiday season with the food, coat, and toy drives, so keep it going after the New Year!

• Consider starting a mentorship with high school and college age students who live in underserved areas who are interested in physical therapy.

Outreach and service is a great way to connect with the community. Engaging in service projects as a clinic builds relationships and is an excellent way to keep everyone engaged. If you would like to discuss specific ways to get your clinic involved with the community by giving back, I am always here to help (marilex.santiago@ptsmc.com).

Happy Holidays to all who celebrate!

FLU Shot Raffle

2022 Halloween Costumes

Holiday Food Drive For 2022, PTSMC is setting the bar high and has a goal to donate: 2,700 items!

AVON

DANBURY

GROTON

Progress tracked from a few food drives puts PTSMC's current item count at: 427

2,700

If your clinic hasn’t already started your food drive, please fill out this form so we can send you a flyer: GUILFORD

LOCK STREET

NAUGATUCK

427

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022FoodDrive

Before delivering your donations be sure to count your total number of items and let Mallory Mason know the final total.

PLAINVILLE

SIMSBURY

WALLINGFORD

First time hearing about this initiative? Here’s what you need to know: The annual Holiday Food Drive is a cherished tradition at PTSMC. President Alan Balavender began this initiative many years ago to give back and serve our local communities in need.

Through the generosity of our people and patients, in 2021 alone, PTSMC collected and donated 2,574 items across the stated.

These donations come from patients, employees, friends and family- anyone and everyone who are fortunate enough to be able to share and contribute.

WATERTOWN

WEST HARTFORD

WESTBROOK

uglyisweatericontest Choose any date between December 1st- 23rd for your clinic to dress in festive holiday attire and ugly sweaters. Snap a group photo and submit it to Emily Fillion.

All photos will go on the PTSMC Facebook page December 21st – 28th. Make sure to like PTSMC's page so you can see when the photos go live!

The PTSMC extended community will vote for which clinic had the "best" holiday fashion by reacting, commenting, or sharing that clinic's photo on Facebook.

Last year the Guilford clinic was back at the top of the podium with a VERY creative collaboration. Let’s see which clinic can top this for 2022 and win a staff lunch!

PTSMC Happenings!

Avon Director Matt Baronowski and Human Resources Coordinator Karen Havlicek attended a UHART event for DPT students.

Avon showed their support for the US Men’s Natioanl Team as they beat Iran to make it the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup!

Groton Partner Steven de Castro ran the NYC Marathon.

Danielson participated in a Trick or Treat on Main Street event in Danielson. From left to right: PTA Cameron Walton, PT Aide Nick Sharp, PT Aide, PT Lisa Guilbault (the snowman!), and PSC Melani Hayes.

A New Haven patient wrote her PT Russell Woodman a sweet poem in gratitude. Read the full poem on our Facebook page @ptsmc.

Fairfield hosted an office Thanksgiving lunch.

Glastonbury stretched runners out at the Race to Fill the Pantry in Glastonbury. Pictured are Partner Brian Greer (left) and PT Jeff Hoerst.

PTSMC clinicians attended the Lower Extremity internal course, instructed

by Melissa Boutagy, on November 12th at PTSMC Orange.

Wallingford Open House Congratulations to Wallingford on a successful open house to celebrate their one-year anniversary in their new location!

Caty Mulligan, Human Resources Coordinator & Sports Medicine Coordinator, welcomed son Callan Patrick Mulligan on October 29th.

Brianne Dwyer, Southington PT, welcomed twins Philomena “Mena” Faye Dwyer and Owen Brian Dwyer.

BRAGS 2022 Brag Recipient: Alison Pearce, Director of Revenue Cycle Management Bragger: Stevie Fell, Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer

Alison is a jack of all trades and is always willing to help me however she can. She and I work together quite often to improve processes, discuss ways to learn new things and problem solve every little thing that may come up. She is always so friendly and embodies the PT for life spirit!

Brag Recipient: Brian Greer, Partner & Director Glastonbury Bragger: Jeffrey Hoerst, PT Glastonbury

Since being brought on in Glastonbury, Brian has done an amazing job fostering an environment that embodies the PT for Life culture.

It begins with patient care where he goes above and beyond to provide top tier care to every patient that he sees. On top of clinical excellence, he has built an incredible workspace from the ground up and filled it with quality team members. He's selective about bringing the right people to the team and the team chemistry has remained excellent even when adding new people. He's active in the clinic and outside of it frequently provides services to the community to build up our name recognition. All in all, Brian is well worth a brag.

Brag Recipient: Carol Corbo, PSA Waterbury Bragger: Emily Pelz, PT Waterbury Carol embodies the PT for Life mission every day. She is always making our patients' care her top priority. She has been an incredible support system for the new therapists, helping them acclimate to the clinic's operations and flow. She never hesitates to offer her assistance. When she is not busy helping patients or clinicians, she is organizing donations to help give back to the Waterbury community. She goes above and beyond every day.

Brag Recipient: Carole Pimenta, PSA Guilford Bragger: Anonymous

Carole consistently goes above a beyond for PTSMC. She works on the weekends, after hours, and is practically on call 24/7. Rain or shine, when Carole is in the office she brings upbeat energy and happiness to the clinic. She engages with patients and continuously goes beyond the demands of the job to make sure they have the best experience possible while they are under our care. Carole actively listens to patients’ and therapists’ needs and never hesitates to help them to the best of her ability. She is a team player and always treats colleagues with respect. She is very patient while training new hires and is a pleasure to work besides. Lastly, she is active online in promoting business and highlighting the strengths of our company. Carole deserves recognition for all of her hard work.

Brag Recipient: Christine Raffone, Sr. Authorization Coordinator Bragger: Stevie Fell, Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer

Christine and I work together quite often and she is always willing to go above and beyond to help. I very often have a ton of questions and she takes the time to answer them to the best of her ability every single time.

Brag Recipient: Christina Mogelnicki, Newington Director Bragger: Anonymous

Christina provides a comfortable environment for her employees to voice questions, concerns, and/or ideas. It makes for a great workplace and a super efficient team that respect and appreciate one another. She is diplomatic, meticulous, and genuinely cares for each employee-- I feel lucky to be a member of this well-run unit!

Bragger: Anonymous

Christina is a great leader who cares about the patient experience and everyone that works with her. She tends to her patients’ needs and is there whenever they need them. She has done multiple things in the office to make it more enjoyable for the patients and is always on schedule. She is a great leader who is improving PTSMC every day

Brag Recipient: Conner Gavin, PT Orange Bragger: Liza Peressini, PT Danbury

Where do I start. Conner not only sees 25 patients a day, but he also works his GLUTEUS MAXIMUS off in the residency program! He passed all his exams, completed all his work, and still has time to enjoy 4 cups of coffee a day. I am so glad to call him my classmate, co-worker, and friend :)

Brag Recipient: Danielle Casey, Executive Coordinator Bragger: Anonymous

Dani is such a great colleague, whenever I need help pulling together an event, a refresher course on how to work a computer system, or just someone to bounce an idea off she is there to offer support! She has such a welcoming personality and is always willing to help! Dani has a positive attitude and approaches her work in an organized and effective manner. She is the perfect friendly face to greet you when you walk into our Admin office! I am glad she is part of our PTSMC family!

Brag Recipient: Dara Phum, PT Aide Orange Bragger: Anonymous

He is the hardest worker in the room and as a leader he takes initiative to make everything flow smoothly. He makes work fun yet the job always gets done as he keeps everybody to a higher standard.

Brag Recipient: Heather Erb-Dowling, PSC West Hartford Bragger: Amy Bellone, PSA West Hartford

Heather goes above and beyond to make patients feel welcomed, included and comfortable in our clinic. She does all of this ALL THE WAY FROM GEORGIA! Heather is our first point of contact to the majority of our new patients and as a result, they come to their first visit informed and ready to get moving. This helps us maintain a positive office environment. All of West Hartford appreciates you so much!

BRAGS 2022 Brag Recipient: Janet Tarasuk, Practice Liaison Bragger: Heather Feiner, Practice Liaison

Brag Recipient: Linda Mullen, PCC Lock Street Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Katy Sullivan, Asst. Director Orange Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Liza Peressini, PT Danbury Bragger: Roy Colter, PT Newington

Brag Recipient: Kelly Cozzolino, PSA Plainville Bragger: Marilex Santiago, Administrative Coordinator

Brag Recipient: Marsela Mgushi, PT Aide Fairfield Bragger: Jennifer Powers, PT Fairfield

Brag Recipient: Kristen Forster, Director of Operations Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Nicole Jones, PT Aide Newington Bragger: Noah Tedeschi, PCC Newington

Janet is the epitome of PT for Life. She hustles everyday and still makes time to help coach others up. I could not continue to grow in my PL role without her energy and input. So happy to be part of the PL "dream team".

Katy has really shined in her new leadership role as Assistant Director at Orange. She is an excellent mentor to the aides and can resolve any fire that lights up our office. She's reliable, organized and empathetic. I feel so thankful that I get to work with her every day!

Kelly always has a smile and energy when interacting with patients.

She is always trying to find ways to bring her Plainville crew together. I got to spend Halloween with her where she was able to help me problem solve, help patients, and keep high vibe energy.

Kristen enhances the atmosphere. Her positive morale and energy to move things is heard throughout meetings and calls. She has a passion for her work, the company and for her colleagues. She is a star helping guide PTSMC operations and illuminating the path. She should be recognized not only for her hard work, but how she makes others feel that work around her. This in turn improves employees’ quality of life at work!

Brag Recipient: Kristen Tolo, PSC Windsor Bragger: Anonymous

Kristen lives out the PTSMC mission by creating unmatched experiences and developing relationships with all the patients that cross her path each day. Regardless of her situation, Kristen comes in with a positive attitude which is able to be seen and is contagiously spread amongst everyone. She is the glue that helps keep our office together, seemingly doing the job of 3 people - all by herself. She always is smiling, always contributes to conversations through the office, and everyone looks to her to have their day brightened. She truly exemplifies what it means to be a PTSMC employee.

Linda goes above and beyond to help her staff. She works hard, making sure all tasks are done efficiently and checking in with therapists frequently with how she can help. She sets an example to her peers of good work ethic. She engages and interacts positively with patients and staff. The workday is always better when Linda is working!

Liza was a great partner for TDN! She was very knowledgeable and picked up the technique very quickly! Liza has been a good partner for me to discuss techniques and review the content since our TDN-1 course!

Marsela is always bubbly and caring towards every patient and she anticipates all of my next moves when it comes to patient care and helping the clinic flow smoothly. All of my patients that she works with absolutely love her as much as we do, and her attitude and presence is welcoming and builds great relationships with everyone in the clinic!

Nicole has done an amazing job building our social media presence which is getting not only getting our name out to the public but also giving helpful advice to anyone that sees her coined "Tip of the Day Tuesday" posts.

Bragger: McKenzie Daniels, PSC Newington

Nicole has done an awesome job of bringing Newington’s social media presence to a whole new level! Between filming, editing and posting she truly does it all, thanks Nicole!

Brag Recipient: Ray Ezirike, PT Aide Windsor, Bragger: Anonymous

Ray is CONSTANT source of energy, positivity, and encouragement.

When he walks into the clinic to begin a shift, he begins his day by saying hello to EVERY single person in the clinic. A patient could be struggling to get through their final rep/set and he will approach them with words of encouragement to get them through. Ray's consistency and positivity has been regarded by patients on several occasions—saying, "How are you ALWAYS in this good of a mood?"

He is one of those people that patients and staff depend on to show up and be themselves every day. Ray is reliable, enthusiastic, and he has the world's most contagious laugh. Anyone at the Windsor clinic would agree that Ray adds so much value to the patient and staff experience.

BRAGS 2022 Brag Recipient: Stevie Fell, Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer Bragger: Christine Hill, Referral Coordinator- YHP (Admin)

Brag Recipient: Theresa Nolan, Customer Service Representative- YHP (Lock Street) Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Rebecca Rudnick, PSC Wethersfield Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Traci O’Brien, PT New London Bragger: Anonymous

Rebecca has been an amazing addition to the Wethersfield team!

She’s always bright, fun, and engaging. She creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for everyone whether it’s greeting patients coming into the clinic, helping them on the phone, or helping co-workers. She is very thoughtful, anticipates needs, and initiates actions that support the clinicians. I greatly appreciate her efforts and presence!

Traci is always a team player and willing to help. Whether she helps the front desk by answering the phones when they are tied up, helps squeeze patients in on her schedule, or staying late to get a post op patient in, she is always going above and beyond. I can always go to Traci with questions and she always points me in the right direction of who to ask.

Brag Recipient: Russell Woodman, PT New Haven Bragger: Andrew Perazella, PT New Haven

Brag Recipient: Verification Team- Allyson Melillo, Destinee Boyd, Donna Baribault, Stefanie Cagno Bragger: Stevie Fell, Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer

Stevie is the jack of all trades! She is always ready with a smile to take on any task-even if it’s last minute. Stevie covers my auths. when I go on vacation. After vacation my computer crashed, I had Covid and a family member passed. Stevie was right there to jump back in to help without question. She is reliable, consistent and a hard worker! She is a great go-to person with any question I have.

So thankful for Stevie!

Russell has always been a great professor, mentor, and above all things a great friend. I am grateful to be able to work alongside him and observe his passion for physical therapy exhibited through his infinite care and attention towards his patients.

Brag Recipient: Sara Gareiss, Business Development Coordinator & Practice Liaison Bragger: Heather Feiner, Practice Liaison

Even though I am older than Sara I consider her a mentor. Her strengths are her calming and positive perspective when problem solving. I am so proud to be part of a team that works well together to better help our coworkers achieve their goals. I couldn't stay focused without her.

Brag Recipient: Tatiana Papuashvili, PT Aide Fairfield Bragger: Jennifer Powers, PT Fairfield

Tatianna always shows up ready to work and she has been so flexible with her hours whenever we are in need! She is very helpful with patient care and PSC duties as needed and embraces the PTSMC family culture. We are so lucky to have her!

Theresa continues to go above and beyond in the clinic. She is a huge asset to our team and I don't know what we would do without her. She is always doing extra to make scheduling and clinicians lives easier. She also does a lot for the staff, including bringing in AMAZING food and a great shoulder to lean on.

Huge shout out to the whole verification team! I am frequently visiting different locations for coverage or training and am always in contact with each of them for one reason or another. Everyone always responds quickly and efficiently to questions and requests