Kimberly Benson, PT, DPT
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy
VPTA's Communications Committee-Content Development Manager

Vision 2020 was adopted by the House of Delegates in 2000, expressing guiding principles such as  Autonomous Physical Therapist Practice, Direct Access, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Lifelong Education, Evidence-based Practice, Practitioner of Choice and Professionalism. The vision was to have physical therapists recognized by consumers and other health care professionals as the practitioners of choice to whom consumers have direct access for the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments, activity limitations, participation restrictions, and environmental barriers related to movement, function, and health. As 2020 approaches, many elements of the vision have been met through more states adopting direct access laws, an increase in the doctorate of physical therapy programs and an increase in research and access to evidence-based practice.  

By Coleen Whiteford, PT, DPT

I lose my cell phone all the time, much to my husband’s chagrin. I lose paper appointment cards before I can write them down in my amazing electronic calendar. I lose my glasses. I lose track of time with patients and get behind in the schedule. Sometimes I lose my patience….

Mona Fazzina, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy, Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults, VPTA Communications Chair, shared her thoughts and experiences with volunteering and networking, topics that touch all our professional lives. 

1.  When did you learn about the value of networking?

Through volunteering, I realized that one thing led to another and by making connections professionally and contributing, I was helped immensely in my own professional life.  For the longest time I thought, "Networking is not for me. I’m not very social. I am a bit of an introvert. I don’t like going out, I don’t like staying up late, or parties or small talk." So, anything that came my way as an invitation to "network" I promptly ignored and shied away from. However, when I look back at the last 10 years, I realize that job opportunities, changes in a professional path, learning to talk to others, learning to negotiate, learning to be efficient, all these things were developed through volunteering and networking. Skills I learned while volunteering and meeting others are helping me to navigate changes in my professional path and to develop professionally and personally.

Kimberly Benson, PT, DPT
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy
VPTA's Communications Committee-Content Development Manager

Recently I was at a course regarding a shift in culture to embrace the “Whole Health” module. The whole health model is a holistic look at the many areas of life that can affect your health — your work environment, relationships, diet, sleep patterns, and more. As a physical therapist, I felt like I was already doing a great job considering my patient's needs and addressing goals. However, I realize there is always room to grow.