May 2023 PULSE

MAY 2023

TO THE APTA PRACTICE LEADERS’ SUMMIT AND BEYOND

IN THIS ISSUE

Clinician’s Corner by Natalie Peterson, The final speaker of the day was Representative Larry Bucshon, MD. Plainville Physical Therapist Before being elected to Congress, Dr. Bucshon practiced as a thoracic Recap of Dr. Daniel Witmer’s Doc Talk: Total Knee/ surgeon. He is considered a “friend of physical therapy,” as he has often Arthrofibrosis and Associated Rehab Perspectives sponsored or supported bills that are advantageous to our profession. He told several stories about attempting to get legislation passed and shared Apply for PTSMC’s Orthopaedic Residency how challenging things like Medicare reform and payment are to change. Info Session 5/23/23 This day was by invitation and was attended by approximately 60 He is a big proponent of reducing the administrative burden that HR Buzz leaders from across the country. The CEOs of all the “big guns” Medicare Advantage Plans have put on providers. In his words, “I’m in May is a Three-Payroll Month including ATI and USPT were in attendance. The opening remarks were favor of anything that makes it easier for people to get effective and CT Minimum Wage Increase provided by Roger Herr, the President of the APTA. affordable care.” He repeatedly reminded the group that advocacy is Time Off Refresher 529 College Savings Plan - Direct Deposit absolutely essential to getting anything done in politics.

401(k) Deadlines The challenge for those attending was very direct: How will this group “partner” with the APTA to improve the profession of physical therapy? Following the formal speakers, we were randomly assigned to small Employee Spotlight: Stevie Fell groups and tasked with talking about the issues and challenges with an Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer The day featured three keynote speakers. The first to present was emphasis on solutions.

Hannah Maxey, PhD, from Indiana University. Her presentation Money Beat: Ideas for Your Tax Refund

By Jim Hungerford “Workforce Challenges Facing Health Care and Physical Therapy” My three take aways from the day are: provided an in-depth analysis of the systematic challenges facing an • People are PTSMC’s greatest asset. That’s not changing!

DEI: Asian American & Pacific Islander overstressed and understaffed American healthcare workforce. She • Technology and data will continue to shape what we do and (AAPI) Heritage Month spent time exploring the trends of the last five years, with particular how we do it.

By Marilex Santiago attention to the impact of the “COVID era.” It appears that a shortage of • Political change requires a strong voice and a large bag of money! providers - from nurses, to MDs, to PTs - will continue to impact the PT for Life Week Photos provision of care for the next several years.

The APTA is the largest association representing our profession. The BRAGs organization is critical in negotiating payment and lobbying to improve The second speaker was Stacy L. Lloyd, MPH, from the American the quality of life for physical therapists. I strongly encourage our Medical Association. She is the association’s Director of Digital Health clinicians to join and be active. PTSMC covers half of the annual cost of and Operations. The premise of her presentation was to educate us on membership as part of your benefits! Everyone can find opportunities to “Steve (Platt) was excellent with manipulating the AMA’s efforts to embrace and expand the use of technology. There get involved in the process of advocacy. I often wondered if the letter my head, neck and shoulders. It worked wonders is an immediate need and application in rural areas as well as for the campaigns and phone calls to representatives mattered.... After listening for me. The other people who helped with my broader population. Her goal was to engage members of the physical to Representative Bucshon’s comments, I assure you they do. care were good too. Front desk was pleasant and therapy community in a collaborative effort to ensure that healthcare courteous, wait times were very low, patient technology is successfully implemented and utilized in practices across The meeting was time well spent with others who deeply care about the density seemed reasonable in terms of how the PTs were managing their time.” - Guilford the country. profession of physical therapy. Clearly, there are challenges that we all face. I am happy to report that the overall mood was positive and “The compassion and kindness shown to my Her presentation was a Master Class in big data. The amount of confident. The services we provide are extremely valuable to the 90-yr old mom as she completes PT post-hip information being collected and analyzed by the AMA and large health individuals we serve as well as the systems we interact with. surgery. Harrison (Picard) is wonderful, and my systems is remarkable. One can only hope that the outcome is a more mom has gone from fear about going to looking individualized course of care that improves outcomes and the entire Thanks, forward to each session. I'm very thankful for the patient experience. team at PTSMC!” - Fairfield On April 19th I was fortunate to attend the “APTA Practice Leaders’ Summit” at the association’s headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. It was my first time attending the meeting and my first time to the new APTA building. The meeting was great, and the building is very impressive.

StriveHub Fab 5

Alan

ENERGAGE EMPLOYEE SURVEY Your input matters to us! We’d like to hear about your experience working at PTSMC and PT For Life, so we are conducting an employee engagement survey.

Energage, an independent research company, is administering the survey May 10 - May 22.

Please be on the look out for emails from President Alan Balavender and Energage.

“Staff are super friendly and overall a great atmosphere. My PT Olivia (Tarca) was great and knew how much to push me and help me after breaking my leg and working toward recovery.”

- Windsor “I have been going to PTSMC in Naugatuck for a few weeks now and I really appreciate the staff and the special attention that is given to the patients. And they work as a team so it helps to keep the momentum up on your exercises. Great group of people that help us get positive results!”

- Naugatuck “Everyone is very knowledgeable and have your best interests in mind, it's never easy trying to recover from an injury but they made my experience enjoyable by being engaging and friendly.” - Putnam

CLINICIAN’S CORNER

Doc Talk Recap: Dr. Daniel Witmer on Total Knee/ Arthrofibrosis and Associated Rehab Perspectives By: Natalie Peterson, PT, DPT Physical Therapist at PTSMC Plainville

Click here to watch Dr. Witmer’s Doc Talk

On March 29th, PTSMC Plainville was honored to host Dr. Dan Witmer, Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon out of Hartford Hospital’s Bone and Joint Institute, who educated clinicians on arthrofibrosis of a total knee arthroplasty. Dr. Witmer, a Pennsylvania native, received his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia. He then came to Connecticut to complete a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Connecticut, in which he was presented with the Cavazos Award for Most Outstanding Resident during his graduating year. He then completed a one-year fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement at Indiana University. During his fellowship, he was trained in complex hip and knee replacement and revision surgery, computer assisted surgery, cementless and partial knee replacement, and rapid recovery techniques enabling outpatient joint replacement for optimized patient recovery. Dr. Witmer’s discussion with PTSMC clinicians focused on the most current research along with his vast personal experience regarding patient’s experiencing arthrofibrosis of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Arthrofibrosis, or the “advanced stiffening” of a joint, occurs in 1-5% of patients following a TKA procedure. In regard to the knee joint, arthrofibrosis is defined as >10 degrees of loss of extension, and only 80-110 degrees of flexion. Dr. Witmer identified the most prevalent risk factors for TKA arthrofibrosis, specific to the patient, as being poor preoperative range of motion, diabetes, females aged 50 and older, previous history of knee surgery, pain catastrophizing or anxiety. Technical risk factors include internal rotation of the femoral or tibial components, lack of tibial slope, raising of the joint line, over-tensioning of MCL/PCL, or basic malalignment. In situations where arthrofibrosis is not responding appropriately to conservative treatments, revision or manipulation may be implemented. In more recent studies, Dr. Witmer conveyed that the most common reasons for TKA revisions include, in order, infection, loosening of replacement parts, flexion instability, stiffness, and lastly malalignment/malrotation. Though necessary in certain patient cases, Dr. Witmer highlights that manipulations are not always benign procedures. Rare but still considerable risks of TKA manipulations include patellar tendon rupture and supracondylar femur fracture due to the lost of a patient’s protective mechanisms against the manipulative intervention while under anesthesia. He highlights that patients who have undergone a manipulation should receive skilled physical therapy immediately (same day) to initiate mobility as soon as possible and most successfully prevent further arthrofibrosis. Most positive results with manipulations are those performed within 6-8 weeks of surgery. Following manipulation, the average

UPCOMING JOURNAL CLUB AND CASE DICUSSION DATES All meetings are 12:00- 1:00 pm on TEAMS. Case Discussion dates: 05/09 Spine focus 06/06 Spine focus 07/11 Spine focus

Journal Club dates: 05/23 Spine focus 06/20 Spine focus 07/25 Spine focus

Click HERE for the full 2023 CD & JC schedule.

Email Danielle.Dunn@ptsmc.com to be added to the meeting group.

gain in knee range of motion is 20-30 degrees, with the goal of 15-20 of those degrees being achieved within the first year of rehabilitation. With patients who are manipulated after 3 months post-op, the range of motion achieved may be much less. Most trials of manipulated patients achieve a final flexion range of motion between 95-115 degrees, which is vital to inform the patient prior to receiving a manipulation. The more informed and understanding a patient is going into these types of procedures, the better the result can be both physically and mentally for them.

As treating clinicians, what should we do if we suspect one of our patients is demonstrating arthrofibrosis after a total knee? Dr. Witmer suggests that if a patient is more than 3 months post-op and still displaying a moderate amount of decreased mobility, ruling out infection should be the first step. Typically, a blood panel to examine ESR/CRP should be obtained from the patient to rule this out. If signs of arthrofibrosis appear earlier on in a patient’s rehabilitation, it is encouraged that the patient receive a CT scan to rule out any component malrotation. For symptoms that may persist or develop much later in rehab or perhaps following the cessation of rehab (>2 years), a bone scan may be performed to evaluate any loosening of parts. At any stage of care, the discussion between the surgeon and the physical therapist can be the most beneficial at determining the next best step in regard to the patient’s plan of care.

Dr. Witmer emphasized the importance of the relationship and communication between surgeon and treating physical therapist in optimal patient care and prognosis. He emphasizes that pushing our patients appropriately by developing a good understanding of the patient’s pain tolerance, preoperative mobility/function, goals, and utilization of proper language and coaching techniques can be imperative in a patient’s rehabilitative success. He underlined the importance of our role as physical therapists to assist in preparing and educating our patients regarding the TKA procedure and possible outcomes.

Early treatment and team communication are essential for good patient outcomes, and Dr. Witmer encourages treating clinicians to reach out to him with any treatment questions or concerns regarding our patient’s status at any point throughout their TKA rehabilitation.

STUDENT PROGRAM UPDATE May is a busy month for the Student Program! We are welcoming 10 new students: Marissa Amatruda (College of St. Mary) will be working with Erik Schmitt in Westbrook.

Samantha Arey (Boston University) will be working with Josh McAdams in Danbury.

Jaden Calixto (AIC) will be working with Liz Miller and Cait Ayotte in New London.

Kelly Hylton (SHU) will be working with Andrew Kalach in Fairfield.

Victoria Iannone (SHU) will be working with Roy Colter in Newington.

Gavin McConnell (AIC) will be working with Nic Sauerbrunn in Windsor.

Derek Profita (SHU) will be working with Dan Pagliuca in New Milford.

Jacob Rooney (SHU) will be working with Andrew Perazella and Russ Woodman in New Haven.

Taylor Schuler (SHU) will be working with Amy Demers and Emily Searle in Branford.

Ryan Solorzano (SHU) will be working with Jared Schiffer in Wallingford.

Stay tuned for updates as the CPI 3.0 is rolled out this summer. One time training will be required of all CIs that counts as 1.5 hours of CEUs – info to follow.

CLINICAL EXCELLENCE Upcoming Courses SPONSORED COURSES

INTERNAL COURSES

Myopain Dry Needling DN-3:

Introduction to the Assessment & Treatment of the Concussed Patient June 10, 2023 Instructed by PTSMC expert: Rick Purdy DOCS Requirement PTSMC New Haven

Advanced May 19-21, 2023 *(RSVP by May 5) Location: QU North Haven Campus Evaluation & Management of Headaches: Lab Intensive June 24- 25, 2023 *(RSVP by May 23) Instructed by Partner 4 Rehab: Jason Myerson & Jason Grimes Open to PTSMC clinicians PTSMC Branford Modern Management of the Older Adult September 16-17, 2023 *(RSVP by August 25) Instructed by ICE Open to all PTSMC clinicians and ATCs PTSMC Guilford

Click HERE for full descriptions of the upcoming courses:

https://ptsmc.egnyte.com/dl/KxtTDaeeIf

Email Mallory Mason at ConEd@ptsmc.com for all sign ups or questions. All course attendance must be approved by Partner/Director.

CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES LIST

Click HERE for full descriptions of the courses above opportunities: https://ptsmc.egnyte.com/dl/RCnzB8GqVU/Clinical_Excellence_List_of_Courses.xlsx_

CONGRATULATIONS TO MEGHAN BLANUSA PTSMC’s New Clinical Excllence Coordinator!

Welcome to Meghan Blanusa, PT, DPT, OCS, in her new role as Clinical Excellence Coordinator. Meghan joined PTSMC as a PT Aide in Guilford in 2016. After graduating from Quinnipiac with her DPT, she accepted a position at PTSMC Naugatuck. In 2021, she completed PTSMC’s Orthopaedic Residency Program as the first female graduate. In 2022, she achieved her OCS certification. Meghan is also an Auditor on PTSMC’s internal audit team. Outside of PTSMC, Meghan volunteers at the QU EQUIP pro bono clinic where she provides oversight and mentorship to QU PT students.

In her new role, Meghan will work closely with Danielle Dunn, Director of Clinical Excellence & Residency Program, to meet PTSMC’s clinical excellence goals, deliver a top-notch DOCS program, support the Residency Program, and deliver clinical education programs.

APPLY FOR PTSMC’s ORTHOPAEDIC RESIDENCY Danielle Dunn will be hosting an info session on PTSMC’s Orthopaedic Residency via TEAMS on May 23 from 8-8:30pm.

PTSMC Orthopaedic Residency is focused on: • Growing and honing clinical delivery skills • Preparing for orthopedic board certification exam • Preparing for potential future PTSMC clinic ownership or leadership role Residents who successfully complete the program will continue their professional development in the PTSMC Leadership & Management Development Program.

Program Details: • 3 hours weekly didactic instruction (45 weeks total) • 3 week Evidence Based Practice and Statistics Course • 14 week Lower Extremity Course (Foot/Ankle, Knee, and Hip) • 14 week Spine Course (Lumbopelvic, Thoracic, Cervical, and TMJ) • 14 week Upper Extremity Course (Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist/Hand) • 1 hour monthly case discussion • 1 hour monthly journal club • Coursework (300 hours combined lecture/lab & home study) • External home study courses from the APTA Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy • Current Concepts in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy,Pharmacology, Clinical Imaging, Frontiers in Orthopedic Science, and Post Operative Management of Orthopedic Surgeries The one year orthopaedic residency program is completed while maintaining a clinical care schedule.

PTSMC offers two options for clinical care: • 40 hour work week (four 10 hour days) and maintain full salary • 32 hour work week (four 8 hour days) with salary 80% of full-time salary. The other 8 hour day is devoted to didactic instruction, clinical mentorship, journal club, and case discussion PTSMC’s Orthopaedic Residency program is “free” as long as the resident completed 3 additional years of full time employment with PTSMC. Please inquire for more information.

Applicants will be evaluated on the following: • Curriculum Vitae/Resume • Personal Essay Statement • Interview with faculty • Two Professional letters of recommendation from faculty and/or work managers (Relationship of recommenders to you must be in a supervisory capacity) ***Applicants must have a valid PT license prior to the start of the residency program*** Learn more and apply online at: www.ptsmc.com/residency Deadline to apply is July 30, 2023! Acceptance decisions will be made in September 2023 for start date in December 2023.

Please email Danielle at Danielle.Dunn@ptsmc.com with any questions.

HUMAN RESOURCES DO YOU HAVE A 529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLAN? MAY IS A THREE PAYROLL MONTH

The May 31st payroll will not have medical, dental, voluntary life or Colonial deductions.

Employees who have a 529 College Savings Plan can have a biweekly direct deposit into a 529 account through payroll. To add a direct deposit, follow steps below: • Click on Myself tab • Under Pay • Click on Payment Options and Add Bank Account

MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE

Effective June 1, 2023, the Connecticut minimum wage will increase to $15.00 per hour.

TIME OFF REFRESHER

Vacation Time - Use it or lose it!

Employees will lose any unused accrued vacation hours as of the reset date, which is the employee anniversary date. Unused vacation hours will be deleted on the reset date.

Full time employees are allowed to use up to 40 hours vacation before the hours are actually accrued. Part time employees are allowed to use up to 20 hours vacation before the hours are actually accrued. Balances will be displayed as a negative. The system will not allow entry of vacation requests if hours will exceed -40 or -20.

Sick Time - Roll it over!

Employees will not lose unused sick hours. Sick hours will rollover each year to a maximum of 160 hours for FT, 120 hours for PT 30 and 80 hours for PT (20) employees.

Holiday Time & Personal - Use it or lose it!

Holiday hours are accrued each January 1st and must be used by December 31st each year or will be lost. This includes the hours for 6 holidays and 1 personal holiday.

Learn more about 529 College Saving Plans: https://www.fidelity.com/about-chet/overview

401(K)

Employees who would like to make a change to their 401(k) biweekly contributions for the 3rd quarter of 2023 must complete the request by Friday, June 16th to be effective with the July 12th payroll. It takes 3 quick steps to change your contributions: • Login https://myplan.johnhancock.com/login • Click on Manage and contributions • Your current Before Tax and/or Roth contributions will be displayed. Click on the arrows to adjust your percentage then click continue at the bottom of the page.

• Sandra Boccialetti will be notified of the change

Holiday hours must be manually entered on the timesheet. Select “Holiday” under the pay code.

Personal holiday hours should be submitted in advance by selecting the “Holiday” pay code under the “Request Time Off” tab.

Holiday Time Off Accrual Schedule Full Time (FT) 56 hours (48 holiday and 8 personal) Part Time 30 (PT 30) 42 hours (36 holiday and 6 personal) Part Time 20 (PT 20) 28 hours (24 holiday and 4 personal)

CONGRATULATIONS! Congratulations to the following PT Aides who completed the SIPTA (Skills Introduction for PT Aides) Program: Derek Horowitz, Simsbury Bella Pasqualucci, Watertown

EMPLOYEE NEWS

NEW EMPLOYEES

Kaylynn Harmann, Southbury Physical Therapist Welcome Back!

CURRENT JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Caitlyn Meindl, Orange PT Aide

Physical Therapist New Haven Orange Shelton Westbrook

Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant Danbury New Milford

PT Aide Branford Groton Guilford Lock Street Middletown New Haven New Milford Shelton Southbury Watertown Westbrook Windsor

Athletic Trainer East Hampton Essex Westbrook Patient Services Coordinator New Haven Westbrook Injury Prevention Specialist Admin

Verification Representative Admin Travis Miller, Westbrook PT Aide

Julia Rosa, Wethersfield PT Aide

NOT PICTURED:

Donte Branch, Branford PT Aide Rosangie Burgos, Naugatuck PT Aide Katie Castillo, Orange 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.

New Hire Referral Bonuses We need your help! Do you know anyone who would be a perfect fit for PTSMC or PT for Life? We’re offering a referral bonus for all positions!

REFERRAL BONUS

for current PTSMC clinic positions When?

Position Amount PT PTA PSC PT Aide

FT - 90 DAYS $2,000 PTM - 150 DAYS FT - 90 DAYS $1,000 PTM - 150 DAYS FT - 90 DAYS $500 PTM - 150 DAYS & AFTER $25 & $100 @ HIRE180 DAYS

Congratulations to our PULSE Trivia Winner: Michaela Horne, PSA Putnam!

Michaela is going home with a new PTSMC Hydro Flask watter bottle for answering the trivia question correctly from the April!

Click here to watch the drawing from all correct responses.

Employee

Spot light Stevie Fell, Float PSC & Customer Experience Trainer If you haven’t met Stevie Fell yet, there is a good chance you will soon!

Stevie is PTSMC’s Float PSC and Customer Experience Trainer. She supports the front desk at all PTSMC offices, provides coverage, and is the go-to person to help PSAs, PSCs, VPSCs, and PCCs succeed in their job roles.

Stevie is originally from Naugatuck, CT and currently lives in Woodbury.

Before PTSMC, Stevie had graduated high school and started on the expected college route. She simply states, it was a mistake. She reflects that she was not in the right place to do school at the time but doesn’t discount the experience. She went into the job world, serving part-time and working full-time at the Waterbury YMCA. She made her way to PTSMC in 2015 as a part-time PSC in the Waterbury clinic.

A few years later, wanting to pursue jobs at the next level, Stevie decided to return to school and completed her BA in Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psych. She was working at PTSMC during those undergrad years, with amazing support from Waterbury Partner & Director Erin Walsh. She went full-time in the clinic after completing her degree. Stevie is currently pursuing her master’s through SNHU online. Her area is psych, and she plans to narrow that scope to Industrial Organization Psychology. IO Psych, she explains, is more business-world focused and applies to a broad scope of career and industries.

In 2020, Stevie left PTSMC to pursue an opportunity in the psych industry. When that job didn’t pan out the way she hoped, she reached out to Kristen Forster, Director of Operations, to see if PTSMC had anything that would fit. Stevie ended up interviewing with Kristen and Sandy Wickman Mason, VP of Operations for the position of Float PSC. PTSMC was looking for the right person with the right PTSMC experience- Stevie was it. Stevie had indicated she wanted to advance her skill set into administrative roles. When the Customer Experience Trainer position came to fruition, Stevie immediately applied. It all worked out for her to split the Float PSC and CET positions.

Stevie has a plethora of knowledge when it comes to PTSMC front desk operations. She always wants to learn more, do more, and help others. She is a fast learner and thorough teacher who loves to discover each person’s learning style and teach in that style. She covers not only for clinics, but also covers for the Verification team, YHP team and VPSC. Outside of PTSMC Stevie lives the way she works. She does not set boundaries when it comes to trying new things! She loves all things music as well as reading and traveling. She listens to books on her three audiobook apps and reads both eBooks and print books.

Her avid love for music comes from being a part of school, town, and regional choruses when she was young. You can catch her at a concert every weekend in the summertime, from heavy metal bands to Taylor Swift to Toby Keith. If you’re lucky, you can catch her karaoke performance to Slim Shady! Karaoke is a major part of Stevie’s life. She runs a weekly karaoke night in the bar she used to live above for the last seven years! It has been one source for her vast knowledge bank of music. She loves a good “challenge” of Karaoke Roulette.

Stevie now lives with her boyfriend Andrew, her chihuahua named Taco, and their cats Sally and Blackjack. Taco truly is a “purse dog.” Stevie carries Taco around in her purse everywhere she goes. Stevie has always loved solo hiking, but it’s not totally solo with Taco at her feet or hanging out in her backpack. She has hiked all the mountains in CT and currently has goals to hike the big NH mountains soon.

Stevie and Andrew are starting what is called the “75 Soft” challenge to get on track to reach that goal. This is also a mental health practice for them, because the cold and darkness of winter hit them hard. The challenge combines daily actions of exercise, getting outside, hydrating, reading, and eating healthy. It won’t be easy, but the end goal of feeling great mentally and physically motivates them.

😊

MAY BIRTHDAYS Alyssa Tracey Madeline Lynch Brianna Galeazza Michelle Gallerani Ethan Cordova Vicki Palmieri Kathryn Flodquist Marilex Santiago Jenn Detlefsen Michaela Horne Kenny Markwat Traci O'Brien Jessica Green Stephanie Bologa Drew Gallagher Anna Scortichini Emily Searle Samantha Amico Tyler Garcia Sean Ferguson Karen Havlicek Kellie O'Donnell Grace Langdon Natalie Pedane Brittany Kearney Rebecca Petrosino Kenny Kregling Julia Swett Mariah Martin Jennifer Melaragno Brian Henderson Lauren Granato Noah Tedeschi Kriti Patel Amanda Kell Paul Dinwoodie Christine Hill Aidan O'Connell Dave Plonsky Rebecca Sauvè

1 1 1 2 3 4 4 5 5 5 6 8 8 10 10 10 11 11 13 13 15 15 17 17 18 20 20 20 21 23 25 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 31 31

Middletown New Haven Orange New London Danbury Admin Waterbury Admin Admin Putnam Essex New London Westbrook Simsbury Southbury Wallingford Branford Fairfield Middletown Watertown Admin New Haven Fairfield Southbury Westbrook Fairfield Wallingford Westbrook New Haven Avon Branford Glastonbury Newington Branford Middletown Danielson Admin Admin Guilford Naugatuck

MAY ANNIVERSARIES Laewa Forrest

Stephany Rozsa Faiz Lilaporia Jonathan Rodriguez

Authorization Representative PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide Patient Care Coordinator Physical Therapist PT Aide PT Aide

Kristina Lipeika

Physical Therapist

Kera Thorne Nicholas Sharp Alex Chakar Madeline Archangelo Lucas Morris Emiley Wilson Hannah Jenkins Anya Zielinski Marisa Keiser Alyssa Wright Robert Parra Brian O'Dea Dara Phum Shae Eucalitto Joseph Antonazzo Amiyah Peters Chrystina Dziala

Admin Danbury Danielson Fairfield Fairfield Guilford Guilford Middletown Naugatuck New Haven New Haven New London Newington Orange Simsbury Southbury Southbury West Hartford West Hartford West Hartford Wethersfield

Watertown

CONGRATULATIONS TO RENEE CORSILLO! Nine Ideas for your Tax Refund

By Jim Hungerford, CPA Associate Vice President of Finance

A tax refund marks a great chance to set yourself in a better position for the future. If you’re getting a windfall from the IRS, here are some ways to make sure your money continues to work for you.

1. Create an emergency fund Many people don’t have an adequate savings account accessible in case of a sudden financial need. A lack of savings leaves you vulnerable to a medical emergency or major repair and can force you to seek out short-term loans at high interest rates or carry credit card balances for an extended period. Using your refund to start or augment an emergency fund could leave you breathing easier should one of those events arise.

2. Pay off debt If you are carrying a credit card balance, consider using your tax refund to pay that off. It doesn’t make much financial sense to put the IRS check for $3,000 in a fund yielding 1% interest and maintain a $3,000 balance on a credit card account charging 18% interest. Going this route allows you to put more money in the bank every month once those minimum payments vanish from your list of bills.

3. Fund your retirement What better way to sock money away for retirement than by using funds that aren’t a part of your paycheck? You can use the funds to purchase or add to a Roth or traditional IRA. 4. Start (or add to) a 529 College Savings Plan If you have children or grandchildren, you’d be doing them a huge favor by saving your refund in a college fund for their benefit. Setting up a 529 College Savings Plan can help them afford a higher education in an era where rising costs leave many saddled with massive debt along with the degree. If you invest in Connecticut’s plan, the CHET (managed by Fidelity), you can even be able to pick up a deduction on your state income tax return.

5. Put it toward your student loans At some point the moratorium on student loan payments will be lifted, and you will need to start paying those loans again. Student loan payments can be a frustrating expense, one that can hold people back from reaching other financial goals. You could use your tax refund to make a larger-than-usual payment. That could put a dent in your principal balance and bring you closer to life without student debt.

6. Invest in the stock market Historically, the stock market has offered greater return on investment than savings accounts, CDs or bonds. While its fluctuations make it a risky choice for immediate financil need, the long-term outlook makes it a better option. Consider individual stocks or an index fund that moves up and down along with the market.

7. Prepay your mortgage Making extra payments on your mortgage can be a great way to save money over the long term. Because so much of your payment on a long-term note goes to pay off the interest, reducing the principal can have an exponential effect over the life of the loan. Even an extra payment or two now can make a big difference in your future obligation to the bank.

8. Cover your bases with Life/Disability Insurance Help take care of yourself and the people you love by using your refund to fill in any Disability and Life Insurance gaps. Thinking about what would happen to your family if you’re not around or if you’re too sick or injured to work isn’t fun, but it may help to put the appropriate amount of protection in place, for you and your loved ones’ futures.

9. File a new Form W-4 with HR If your refund is several thousand dollars, you are making an interest free loan to the IRS. You can reduce your withholding, and thereby increase your current take home pay, by filing out a new Form W-4 to set your withholding accurately, based on a series of questions on the form.

On the flip side, if you owe the IRS a bunch of money, you should also consider filing a new Form W-4 to avoid interest and penalties from underpayment of taxes.

Renee Corsillo has been promoted to Patient Services Administrator in the Danbury clinic. Renee started with PTSMC Danbury in February 2022. Prior to joining PTSMC, Renee spent quite a few years working at veterinary clinics and hospital emergency rooms as an ER Technician and a Clinical Information Manager.

Renee arrived at the Danbury clinic as numbers began to increase. Josh McAdams, Partner and Director, commented, “Renee embodies all that is PT for Life! She is loved by our patients and staff. She also brings organization and a sense of calm to the clinic. She is an innate problem solver and has been our go-to person since she was hired. We are fortunate to have her, and I am personally thrilled for her to take on more responsibilities and have more opportunities here in Danbury.”

In her personal time, Renee loves to hike with her rescue dog, Orion.

They have solo hiked all of the trailed high peaks in the Catskill Mountains together. Renee is also an avid runner. She LOVES running!

The half marathon is her favorite distance. She completed the Hartford Half and the Philly Half in fall 2022.

As a Patient Services Administrator, Renee is excited to take on more administrative responsibilities as the clinic continues to grow in staff and volume. She loves that she will take on some of the tasks that previously fell to Josh so that he can be free to focus on other aspects of running the clinic.

Renee also looks forward to the opportunity to get involved in community engagement in the Danbury area. She believes that everybody should know how great PTSMC is!

CONGRATULATIONS TO NATE PANICO! Nate Panico has been promoted to Patient Services Coordinator in the Westbrook clinic. Nate started at PTSMC in December of 2021 as one of PTSMC’s first Patient Care Coordinators (PCC). In the PCC position, Nate learned the role of both the PT Aide and the Patient Service Coordinator. He completed the Skills Introduction for the PT Aide (SIPTA) Program in July 2022.

His primary focus has been the front desk at Westbrook, and he stepped up to take over front desk responsibilities during PSA Emma Graham’s leave last summer. Emma shared that, “Nate always comes to work with a positive attitude, he’s willing to learn and always engaging in a professional manner with patients.

Patients and staff always have good things to say!”

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

Engagement & Wellness Calendar May

MAKING SENSE OF STRESS May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Understanding stress is important to keeping yourself healthy both in mind and body.

Humans have protective survival instincts, which include the stress response. When sensing danger, our bodies release hormones that allow for immediate action. The stress response - fight, flight, or freeze enables us to escape danger and survive in threatening situations.

Think about the following ‘day-to-day’ situations that can cause stress: • Job promotions • Deadlines at work • Major events/ parties • Family illness • Planning a vacation • Financial concerns Notice the first three listed are situations that are commonly viewed as positive, yet they can add pressure to your life as you make plans, manage priorities, and regulate your expectations and emotions. It is the amount of pressure you feel, your body’s reaction, and your ability to cope that determines how you handle these stressors.

If not dealt with, stress can wreak havoc on your body and mind.

Therefore, it is very important to address stress proactively and aggressively. Check out the following list of ways that stress can be addressed and managed.

Healthy lifestyle habits provide an important foundation for your body and mind to deal with stress. Examples include: • Eating healthy • Exercising regularly • Getting quality sleep • Mindfulness/meditation activities • Seeing your primary care physician for check-ups • Deep breathing exercises to reset your brain when overwhelmed Time management allows for a sense of self-control and autonomy and reduces the effect of potential stressors. Some time-management strategies include: • Using a calendar to plan your day out • Setting built-in breaks to hydrate, stretch or rest your eyes • Writing down your to-dos for the day in order of importance Setting boundaries can help you protect yourself from being in stressful situations and improve self-regulation when you do become stressed.

• Eliminate triggers when possible • Learn to say NO! • Set your priorities and limits with co-workers & loved ones To actively work on reducing stressors and improve stress management, join the Level Up #GetMoving Challenge!

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May 1-31

Mental Health Awareness Month

May 1-31

#GetMoving Level Up Challenge

May 1-31

Energage Employee Survey

May 10-22

June Pride Month

June 1-30

Men’s Health Awareness Month

June 1-30

PTSMC Gear Order

June 16-28

Email wellness@ptsmc.com to subscribe to the Employee Engagement & DEI Calendar.

Level Up

#GETMOVING CHallenge Level Up #GetMoving Challenge: May 1 – May 31 There’s still time to join! Reach out to wellness@ptsmc.com to get set up with Motion Connected and start working toward better mental and physical health.

Physical activity challenge- average 20 min of purposeful physical activity per day.

Mental health goals- complete a series of workshops and practices throughout the month.

Reach the goals and get rewarded! You could earn a PTSMC #GetMoving Long Sleeve and Mental Health Daily Check-In’s Journal to keep putting wellness first even after the challenge.

DEI

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

By Marilex Santiago, DEI Leader & Administrative Coordinator

May is Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the rich history, culture, contributions, and experiences of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This month-long observance has its roots in a joint congressional resolution in 1977 that designated the first ten days of May as “Asian-Pacific Heritage Week.” It was later expanded in 1990 to encompass the entire month of May. The month of May was chosen because the transcontinental railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, and most workers who laid its tracks were Chinese immigrants.

The celebration of AAPI Heritage Month is important because it recognizes and elevates the stories, experiences, and struggles of the AAPI community, which has often been marginalized and overlooked in American history. This month also provides an opportunity to raise awareness about issues facing the AAPI community, such as discrimination, hate crimes, and the model minority myth. The AAPI community is incredibly diverse, encompassing more than 50 ethnic groups and speaking over 100 languages. They are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States, with a population of over 24 million people.

There are several ways to observe AAPI Heritage Month, by learning, supporting, and advocating: • Learn about the history and contributions of the AAPI community through books, documentaries, and online resources. Click HERE for a great collection of documentaries, interviews, stories, and art to learn more from the AAPI community.

• Support AAPI-owned businesses and artists and attend cultural events and festivals. Check out AAPI Westport, a Westport, Connecticut based group with the mission “to foster a sense of belonging within our community, as well as increase AAPI visibility and awareness throughout Westport and beyond.” Click HERE for their events and directory to see how you can support locally.

• Speak out against discrimination and hate crimes targeting the AAPI community and advocate for policies that promote equity and justice for all.

PTSMC Happenings!

UPCOMING PTSMC

EVENTS MAY

Wallingford dressed up for “Look-Alike Day.”

Danielson celebrated Easter by giving out treats to patients. Pictured: Emma McMillan (left), PT Aide, and Cameron Walton, PTA.

Newington attended the Newington High School Career Fair. Pictured: Christina Mogelnicki, Director, and Roy Colter, PT.

!

May 6 Putnam Jog with Judy 5k May 12 PTSMC Orthopaedic Society Annual Meeting May 15 Doc Talk at PTSMC Guilford Dr. Elizabeth Gardner of Yale Orthopedic Specialists May 20 Branford, Guilford, & New Haven New Haven Family Stroll May 21 Newington Newington Library 5k

JUNE June 8 Newington Cruising Newington June 17 Watertown Watertown Block Party

Are you participating in an event?

Reach out to Emily.Fillion@ptsmc.com

On April 22, 15 PTSMC clinicians attended the TMJ Course instructed by PTSMC experts Michelle Kijewski, Wallingford Director, and Rebecca Petrosino, Fairfield Partner.

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE CLASSES On April 5th and 6th, the women of PTSMC gathered at Wethersfield and Branford for Women’s Self Defense Classes. The events raise $340 that PTSMC matched, and $680 was donated to The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services!

Sandra Boccialetti (left), Director of Human Resources, and Danielle Dunn, Wallingford PT and Director of Clinical Excellence and Residency Program, attended the APTA’s New England Student Conclave in Boston.

Did you miss the April monthly video?

President Alan Balavender discusses the upcoming employee survey, administered through the independent research company, Energage, and the importance of providing feedback.

PTSMC HIGHLIGHTS

Social Media

CATCH UP

BLOG POSTS Dana Colonese, Orange PT, completed Myopain's DN-3 course down in Bethesda, MD, earning the certification of Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist.

Brian Vo, Windsor Partner, and Jason Smutnick, Windsor PT, added to their dry needling credentials by achieving the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy's, Certification in Dry Needling®.

REEL Welcome to new DOCS program mentors:

Mike Popolizio, Glastonbury PT, broke down LSVT-BIG treatment for Parkinson’s Disease in honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Jill Cristaldi, PT, DPT, GCS - Wethersfield Mario Paredes, PT, DPT, CMTPT - Orange

SoCIAl Media Sensation PTSMC Newington

Jared Lynch, Data Ryan Balavender, Nicole Dorosh, Human Resources Coordinator, and Analyst, got engaged to Director of Facilities, her husband Dylan Savannah-Nicole Villalba. and his wife Meg welcomed Lillian Blake. welcomed Maya Gail.

Christina Mogelnicki, Director, and Noah Tedeschi, PCC, created a video on mobility drills for golfers to do on the course.

This is the first in a series they’re producing on golf.

Follow PTSMC on social!

PT for Life Week Photos!

Westbrook

Branford

Plainville

Newington

Simsbury

Wethersfield

West Hartford

Shelton

Avon

Windsor

Middletown

Waterbury

Southington Wallingford

Naugatuck

Glastonbury

Watertown

Orange

BRAGS 2023 Brag Recipient: Bella Pasqualucci, PT Aide Watertown Bragger: Anonymous

Bella has worked with us for almost a year, and she has demonstrated a work ethic that has gone above and beyond what is expected. She consistently comes to work with a smile and bright personality. Patients have taken notice and commented on her ability to multitask and provide excellent patient care.

Unfortunately for our office, Bella is leaving us to pursue further education. We wish her all the best and know she will make an excellent PA.

Brag Recipient: Bianca Tata, PT Aide Newington Bragger: Noah Tedeschi, PCC Newington

Bianca always goes out of her way to make the patients feel comfortable while they are here. She does a great job at listening to them and relaying any info to the therapist. She also always comes to work wanting to learn more about the roles of an aide and front desk responsibilities so she can be the best at her job as possible.

Brag Recipient: Christine Hill, Senior Referral Coordinator YHP Bragger: Grace Burke, Customer Service Representative YHP She is always there to help with a smile and is dedicated and such a good team member and is extremely knowledgeable.

Brag Recipient: Cindy Hales, Account Receivable Coordinator Bragger: Betsy Holt, PSA Simsbury

Cindy is amazing! She always helps me, and the very few times she cannot help, she will tell me who I can reach out to. She will always say, "What's the ID#?

Let's look at it together." The question could be for a patient, for Insurance, or just something that looks off in receivables. Sometimes I apologize for reaching out as often as I do, she will stop me and encourage me to call. I know she is also terribly busy, but as a TEAM member she makes me feel important, which I then pass on to the patients and staff here in Simsbury. I love that the PTSMC staff are kind, reliable, trustworthy and accessible. Thank you, Cindy, for who you are and what you do to make my work better!

Brag Recipient: Dani Pilgrim, PCC New Milford Bragger: Carley Murphy, PSC New Milford

Dani went out of her way for me when I started working at PTSMC and still does every day! I was beyond nervous and overwhelmed starting as a PSC, but there wasn't a day that went by that she didn't help and support me. Every question I had she could answer and always radiated infectious positivity. With all her patients she is attentive and kind, always wearing her signature smile. She truly brightens each patient’s day, as well as my own. She's never not running around and working hard. Dani is a key player in the success of the New Milford clinic. If anyone deserves to be bragged about, it's her.

Brag Recipient: Mark Bagdasarian, PT Aide Newington & Wethersfield Bragger: Noah Tedeschi, PCC Newington

Mark always engages very well with the patients to make their time here as good as it could be. Mark also enhances the office environment by coming in with a good attitude which makes being at the clinic that much more enjoyable.

Bragger: Roy Colter, PT Newington Mark is an excellent PT Aide that patients and staff enjoy having around. While his March Madness bracket did not win us the free lunch, we are sad to see him go. Best of luck with PA school Mark!

Brag Recipient: Noah Tedeschi, PCC Newington Bragger: Roy Colter, PT Newington I wish I could clone Noah. He has been a PT Aide and PCC that has gone above and beyond to help make our operation run smoothly. I am sad to see him go off to PT school, but I know he is going to make an excellent clinician!

BRAGS 2023 Brag Recipient: Roslin DellaVecchi, PTA Naugatuck & Watertown Bragger: Anonymous

Brag Recipient: Wallingford Staff Bragger: Practice Liaisons

Brag Recipient: Roy Colter, PT Newington Bragger: “LP”, PT Danbury

Brag Recipient: Zack Currie, Assistant Director Guilford Bragger: Anonymous

Roz has been a great addition to our team here in Watertown over the last year. She continuously puts her patients first and works directly one on one with them often times causing her to end her day late. She also extends her hours often to make up for hours lost when therapists are on vacation in order to accommodate patients and the care that they need.

She is always happy and brings a great energy to the office.

Roy gives 110%. He is always ready to learn, PROactive in his career, and constantly seeking the most recent research to bring to the clinic. As a fellow SHU grad, he has always been prepared, one step ahead, caring, and knowledgeable about the human anatomy and biomechanics. I can say for certainty that PTSMC is lucky to have a therapist like Roy!

Brag Recipient: Renee Corsillo, PSA Danbury Bragger: Anonymous Renee is the glue that keeps the clinic together.

Whether she is taking care of patients face-to-face, making those difficult phone calls, explaining insurance guidelines, or tidying up around the clinic, she provides above and beyond care. To say that Renee is a vital asset to our team is an understatement; she is one-in-a-million that we are glad to call ours at Danbury.

Brag Recipient:Jake Siedel, PCC Middletown Bragger: Jacky Severance, PSA Middletown Jake improves the experience of quite literally everyone in this office from the patients to the employees. His work ethic and quality of his work is amazing. We are all so grateful for him!

Janet, Sara, and I (Heather) were out to lunch after a meeting in Wallingford. As we stood up from the table, a lady stopped us to ask if we worked with PTSMC in Wallingford because she had seen us peak into the gym while we visited. She proceeded to rave and rave about how amazing ALL of the Wallingford staff is, and that she even got her friend to go! She could not have stated our PT for Life goals any better as they were delivered by our Wallingford team perfectly including clinicians, PT Aides, and PSC’s.

In a clinic as busy as Guilford, Zack has really stepped up to the plate as Assistant Director. He treats patients and all staff with respect and compassion and views everyone first and foremost as a person before anything else. He has sacrificed much of his admin time to ensure that his patients are able to get in, both coming in early and staying late, often working much more than his allotted 10-hour shift. The time that he is in clinic is devoted entirely to doing his job well and the amazing feedback from his patients really shows his dedication and knowledge. It is truly an honor watching him grow into this position and I cannot wait to see the amazing things he will continue to do!