APTA Nebraska delegates share insights from the House of Delegates, revealing how key votes on professional policies and bylaws shape the future of physical therapy practice across the state and nation. The podcast explores the inner workings of APTA governance and highlights critical changes that impact all physical therapists and assistants.

If you're interested in getting involved with APTA governance, reach out to our current delegates. APTA House of Delegates

Links:

Primary Care:

APTA Federal PC SIG Canva Presentation​​​

Primary PT Podcast

Competency Based Education:

New APTA Report Details Performance Outcomes for PT Entrance Into Practice

Competency-Based Education in Physical Therapy

Amber Herrington and Jen Bruursema share their journeys as physical therapists and their work with APTA Nebraska's Education Committee, working to unite Nebraska's PT community through continuing education and professional development.

• Amber owns a mobile physical therapy practice, bringing care directly to patients after 14 years in outpatient neuro rehab
• Jen specializes in geriatric PT at Innovate Rehab and Wellness, working across multiple settings to combat ageism and promote vitality in older adults
• Both co-chair the APTA Nebraska Education Committee, organizing the annual spring conference
• The committee has shifted to a "CSM model" featuring diverse two-hour sessions instead of single daylong workshops
• Speaker and poster submissions for the April 10-11, 2025 conference at UNMC's Trulson Center are due September 14, 2024
• Volunteer opportunities range from one-time conference day help to ongoing committee involvement
• Committee participation typically requires minimal time commitment—approximately one hour every other month

To get involved with the Education Committee, reach out directly to Amber or Jen through the APTA Nebraska website.

Episode Links:

Nebraska Physical Therapy Association - Education Committee

Nebraska Physical Therapy Association - Public Announcements

American Physical Therapy Association

Ryan Hardin and Brett Burton share their journeys from McCook, Nebraska through PT school and various career paths before ultimately returning to their hometown to practice physical therapy at McCook Community Hospital.

• Both attended University of Nebraska for athletic training and UNMC for physical therapy
• Brett's path included a sports residency in Idaho and working with professional athletes in Phoenix
• A cancer diagnosis at 30 prompted Brett to reevaluate priorities and eventually return to McCook
• Ryan values working in a one-high-school town where he can serve athletes and be involved with FCA
• Small-town PT practice offers unique advantages including seeing patients through their entire recovery journey
• The critical access hospital setting provides excellent resources with 10 therapists and extensive facilities
• Both therapists treat patients across age ranges (4-104) and wide-ranging conditions
• Being part of the community creates deeper relationships with patients
• Challenges include regulatory limitations specific to critical access hospitals
• Both find joy in helping patients move better, with Ryan noting movement has "physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual benefits"
• APTA Nebraska membership provides valuable professional connections and continuing education
• McCook offers excellent quality of life with three recreational lakes, new YMCA facilities, and affordable living

Join us at upcoming APTA Nebraska conferences to connect with fellow physical therapy professionals and build valuable relationships across the state.

Episode Links:

Ryan Hardin, PT, DPT, ATC | Community Hospital - McCook, Nebraska

Brett Burton - PT, DPT, SCS, ATC, CSCS | Community Hospital - McCook, Nebraska

Founder/Instructor — One Harmonic Motion

Home - Visit McCook