Doctoring Profession

Professionalism & Advocacy

I have improved in my ability to use professional communication with other health care professionals when discussing patient management
I have advocated for myself and my education by reaching out to national legislation in support of bills that benefit the physical therapy field
I have learned the importance and impact of evidence based practice through two research presentations given at national conferences

I would like to hold a manager position or other position of leadership at the clinic where I am working
In 3-5 years, I would like to continue my education by pursuing my OCS
I will remain a member of the APTA in order to stay up to date with current changes in the field and to best advocate for and support my profession

9 Health Fair
- Completed BMI and BP screenings for fair attendees
Easter Seals Stroke Support Group
- Assisted in generalized stroke survivor health care activities including walks in the community and exercise classes
- Attended a Stroke Survivor Support Group, listening to personal experiences associated with stroke and stroke recovery
Juniper Village
- Led exercise classes for older adults with Dementia and Alzheimers
Holly Creek Christian Living Communities
- Participated in organized activities in the senior memory care unit

Highlights cultural commonality and universal values that may also mask deeper recognition and appreciation of cultural differences
May not be fully aware of how one's ideas and behaviors are culturally grounded
Seeks to avoid stereotyping and biased behavior by treating each person as their own individual
Interested in differences but limited capacity to adapt to other cultural practices

Referrals: Use of referral phone calls to physicians to address potential patient red flags or suggested course of management

Ergonomics: Instruction in proper ergonomics when relevant to impact patient's symptom presentation

Advocacy: Discussion of physical therapist scope of practice to patients or other health care providers

How I have grown as a professional...

I have learned what it means to be a health care professional, responsible for the management of patient's health conditions, and utilized best practice and my professional opinion to guide treatment and care recommendations
I have had many opportunities to represent the profession to patients and other health care providers, but also among other physical therapists with the delivery of research presentations
I have learned about, participated in, and encouraged the use of advocacy to progress our field and support our autonomous practice
I have collaborated with individuals from interdisciplinary teams to effectively treat the whole patient, ensuring that multiple systems and concerns are addressed