<h3>Why your best play is calling the shots, not running them all</h3> Alex and I recently talked about the physical therapist income floor and ceiling. And in this episode, we talk with Dr. Marc Gruner, who offers a framework for a solution to that seemingly impenetrable ceiling. Here's the punchline. The income ceiling in PT isn't about reimbursement rates. It's about your practice model. Dr. Gruner created the RTM codes, which are the first new codes for PT in 20 years. Now we can absolutely make the strong argument that the PT billing codes don't adequately reimburse therapists for the value we create, and that the income ceiling should not be tens of thousands below providers who don't have doctoral degrees as the required minimum educational level. But in this episode, Dr. Gruner explains why team-based care and value-based arrangements are the only path to sustainable income growth while providing access to care to our communities. We talk about RTM in this episode, and about how RTM wasn't designed as simply another billing code. It's infrastructure for the glide path to value-based care for physical therapists. So tune in to hear much more from Dr. Gruner, a true physician champion for the physical therapy profession. Learn how to stop top playing every position and start calling the plays. RTM Strategic Deep Dive: Subscribe below for the full article on how remote therapeutic monitoring serves as a facilitator for value-based success, and why we make the argument that it is crucial for therapists to think of it that way. When you subscribe, you have access to the full archive of newsletter articles and to exclusive access to a supplemental set of resources that will hit your inbox after you subscribe (for free!). <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a>

Why your best play is calling the shots, not running them allAlex and I recently talked about the physical therapist income floor and ceiling. And in this episode, we talk with Dr. Marc Gruner, who offers a framework for a solution to that seemingly impenetrable ceiling.Here's the punchline. The income ceiling in PT isn't about reimbursement rates. It's about your practice model.Dr. Gruner created the RTM codes, which are the first new codes for PT in 20 years. Now we can absolutely make the strong argument that the PT billing codes don't adequately reimburse therapists for the value we create, and that the income ceiling should not be tens of thousands below providers who don't have doctoral degrees as the required minimum educational level. But in this episode, Dr. Gruner explains why team-based care and value-based arrangements are the only path to sustainable income growth while providing access to care to our communities. We talk about RTM in this episode, and about how RTM wasn't designed as simply another billing code. It's infrastructure for the glide path to value-based care for physical therapists.So tune in to hear much more from Dr. Gruner, a true physician champion for the physical therapy profession. Learn how to stop top playing every position and start calling the plays.RTM Strategic Deep Dive: Subscribe below for the full article on how remote therapeutic monitoring serves as a facilitator for value-based success, and why we make the argument that it is crucial for therapists to think of it that way. When you subscribe, you have access to the full archive of newsletter articles and to exclusive access to a supplemental set of resources that will hit your inbox after you subscribe (for free!).Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Future-Proof PT

PT as Quarterback, with Dr. Marc Gruner, DO, MBA, RMSK

Drowning in student debt? Feeling undervalued as a PT? Here's why: You're trapped between an artificial floor and a glass ceiling. The floor? PT school costs more than an MBA at MIT—that's your barrier to entry. The ceiling? The AMA's physician-dominated board literally decides what you're worth. And between those two forces, you're stuck. Today we break down the economic trap keeping PTs fragmented, underpaid, and powerless—and what you can actually do about it. You're not alone, and the problem runs way deeper than you may think. What You'll Learn:<ul><li>Why PTs earn less than other providers for the same skills - Discover how the American Medical Association controls your reimbursement rates </li><li>The hidden economic barriers keeping PTs fragmented - Learn why our 400,000-strong profession has less influence than professionals with a smaller number of providers</li><li>Why your PT school education failed you - The critical finance and regulatory knowledge gaps that leave new grads unprepared (and how to fix them yourself)</li><li>The private practice opportunity - Understanding debt structures, consulting fees, and why smaller clinics actually have MORE freedom to innovate</li><li>Your path out of fee-for-service dependence - Practical strategies for recouping your investment beyond insurance reimbursement</li><li>Why certifications actually DO matter (despite what cynical colleagues say) - How specialization opens doors beyond your clinic job</li></ul> Our guest today is Jon Lee, PT, DPT, MBA, the co-founder of Pickle, former pro sports PT, and someone who's navigated from clinical practice to Oxford MBA to vaccine development to healthcare tech It's a conversation about the structural economic problems facing PTs—and actionable knowledge you won't get in school. You will enjoy how the three of us challenge each other throughout this hour-long conversation. We keep it real and it's ultimately optimistic. This episode is great for new grads struggling with debt, mid-career PTs feeling stuck, clinic owners questioning their business model, and anyone wondering if they made a mistake choosing their healthcare profession. <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a>

Drowning in student debt? Feeling undervalued as a PT? Here's why: You're trapped between an artificial floor and a glass ceiling. The floor? PT school costs more than an MBA at MIT—that's your barrier to entry. The ceiling? The AMA's physician-dominated board literally decides what you're worth. And between those two forces, you're stuck. Today we break down the economic trap keeping PTs fragmented, underpaid, and powerless—and what you can actually do about it. You're not alone, and the problem runs way deeper than you may think.What You'll Learn:Why PTs earn less than other providers for the same skills - Discover how the American Medical Association controls your reimbursement rates The hidden economic barriers keeping PTs fragmented - Learn why our 400,000-strong profession has less influence than professionals with a smaller number of providersWhy your PT school education failed you - The critical finance and regulatory knowledge gaps that leave new grads unprepared (and how to fix them yourself)The private practice opportunity - Understanding debt structures, consulting fees, and why smaller clinics actually have MORE freedom to innovateYour path out of fee-for-service dependence - Practical strategies for recouping your investment beyond insurance reimbursementWhy certifications actually DO matter (despite what cynical colleagues say) - How specialization opens doors beyond your clinic jobOur guest today is Jon Lee, PT, DPT, MBA, the co-founder of Pickle, former pro sports PT, and someone who's navigated from clinical practice to Oxford MBA to vaccine development to healthcare techIt's a conversation about the structural economic problems facing PTs—and actionable knowledge you won't get in school. You will enjoy how the three of us challenge each other throughout this hour-long conversation. We keep it real and it's ultimately optimistic.This episode is great for new grads struggling with debt, mid-career PTs feeling stuck, clinic owners questioning their business model, and anyone wondering if they made a mistake choosing their healthcare profession. Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Episode 18: The PT Education ROI Crisis with Jon Lee, PT, DPT, MBA

<h3>What happens when the only physical therapist to serve two U.S. Presidents shares his unfiltered blueprint for transforming PT into a primary care powerhouse?</h3> Dr. Drew Contreras, PT, DPT, SCS—Lieutenant Colonel (retired), former White House Medical Unit PT to Presidents Obama and Biden, and current APTA Vice President of Strategic Affairs—delivers a masterclass in professional evolution that will fundamentally shift how you view your career trajectory. This is surgical precision strategy from someone who's operated at the highest levels of American healthcare. Dr. Contreras dismantles the "comfort crisis" plaguing PT, where professionals complain about constraints while avoiding the uncomfortable work of actual transformation. His brings up a great point, too: venture capitalists are flooding PT because they see massive opportunity that many therapists are too comfortable to seize. The Analogy-Based Insights You'll Gain: <ul><li>The Tree-Cutting Analogy: How value-based care mirrors service industries you already understand—and why PTs must stop being "branch pickers" and become strategic planners</li><li>The Netflix Model of Healthcare: Why flexible, on-demand PT delivery (including treating astronauts in space) represents the future of patient engagement</li><li>From Skilled Laborer to Expert Consultant: The mindset shift from counting clamshells to providing high-level clinical consultation that commands premium pricing</li><li>The Spider-Man Principle: Why ordering imaging and labs comes with great responsibility—and how embracing this elevates PT to true doctoring status</li></ul> Strategic Intelligence from the Inside:Contreras reveals how political and healthcare leadership actually views PT's potential, sharing insights from Pentagon health clinics to White House medical operations. His perspective on "old guard versus new guard" leadership offers a roadmap for navigating professional transition without burning bridges. The Uncomfortable Truth: Healthcare's shift is here and we already risk being late to the game. PTs equipped with "coloring-book anatomy knowledge" (it will make sense when you listen to the episode) successfully operated in primary care roles decades ago. Today's DPT graduates possess exponentially superior tools and knowledge, yet many lack the courage to step into their full scope of practice. And the "old guard" has to step up and embrace this too, even if it means adding to your knowledge base. This episode will arm you with the strategic framework to thrive in healthcare's inevitable transformation. For therapists ready to evolve beyond traditional treatment rooms into primary care leadership roles, this conversation provides the roadmap. For those comfortable with the status quo, it serves as a wake-up call to the professional reckoning already underway. <a href="https://futureproofpt.notion.site/Dr-Drew-Contreras-PT-DPT-SCS-Bio-2025-2672cee6a6d98022bc30f1b38f1cb12f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read Dr. Contreras' bio here</a> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a>

What happens when the only physical therapist to serve two U.S. Presidents shares his unfiltered blueprint for transforming PT into a primary care powerhouse?Dr. Drew Contreras, PT, DPT, SCS—Lieutenant Colonel (retired), former White House Medical Unit PT to Presidents Obama and Biden, and current APTA Vice President of Strategic Affairs—delivers a masterclass in professional evolution that will fundamentally shift how you view your career trajectory.This is surgical precision strategy from someone who's operated at the highest levels of American healthcare.Dr. Contreras dismantles the "comfort crisis" plaguing PT, where professionals complain about constraints while avoiding the uncomfortable work of actual transformation. His brings up a great point, too: venture capitalists are flooding PT because they see massive opportunity that many therapists are too comfortable to seize.The Analogy-Based Insights You'll Gain:The Tree-Cutting Analogy: How value-based care mirrors service industries you already understand—and why PTs must stop being "branch pickers" and become strategic plannersThe Netflix Model of Healthcare: Why flexible, on-demand PT delivery (including treating astronauts in space) represents the future of patient engagementFrom Skilled Laborer to Expert Consultant: The mindset shift from counting clamshells to providing high-level clinical consultation that commands premium pricingThe Spider-Man Principle: Why ordering imaging and labs comes with great responsibility—and how embracing this elevates PT to true doctoring statusStrategic Intelligence from the Inside:Contreras reveals how political and healthcare leadership actually views PT's potential, sharing insights from Pentagon health clinics to White House medical operations. His perspective on "old guard versus new guard" leadership offers a roadmap for navigating professional transition without burning bridges.The Uncomfortable Truth: Healthcare's shift is here and we already risk being late to the game. PTs equipped with "coloring-book anatomy knowledge" (it will make sense when you listen to the episode) successfully operated in primary care roles decades ago. Today's DPT graduates possess exponentially superior tools and knowledge, yet many lack the courage to step into their full scope of practice. And the "old guard" has to step up and embrace this too, even if it means adding to your knowledge base.This episode will arm you with the strategic framework to thrive in healthcare's inevitable transformation.For therapists ready to evolve beyond traditional treatment rooms into primary care leadership roles, this conversation provides the roadmap. For those comfortable with the status quo, it serves as a wake-up call to the professional reckoning already underway.Read Dr. Contreras' bio hereSubscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Episode 17: PT Without Walls | A Conversation with Dr. Drew Contreras, PT, DPT, SCS

<h2>Explorers, Innovators, and the Future of Therapy Practice</h2> What distinguishes an explorer from a maintainer in the therapy profession? Why are outside disruptors capturing market share while traditional practices struggle? How can clinicians leverage cutting-edge research on mitochondrial DNA and movement disorders to revolutionize treatment approaches? We tackle these questions and more in a dialogue that bridges clinical excellence with business innovation. Alex offers a provocative parable about buying lottery tickets that perfectly captures our profession's hesitation to proactively engage with healthcare transformation. "We're losing workforce," he warns, "but we're still failing to see that we need to go out and look into these risk-based contracts, at least explore, at least understand what they are and how to operationalize them."We examine the stark contrast between traditional care models and patient-centered approaches that leverage technology. Is it better to "hold a patient's hand" through dozens of visits, or transition to guided self-management after fewer sessions? This question gets to the heart of therapy's value proposition in an evolving healthcare ecosystem. The irony doesn't escape us: therapists expertly help patients recognize and build upon their strengths, yet we collectively struggle to do the same for our profession. The gap between the actual value therapists provide and our ability to communicate that value creates the perfect opportunity for disruption – either from outside forces or, ideally, from innovative thinkers within. External disruptors aren't succeeding because they provide better clinical care. They're succeeding because they've packaged therapy expertise in ways that solve specific problems for stakeholders, speaking the language of value, efficiency, and outcomes that resonates with payers and health systems. This conversation isn't meant to be comfortable – it's meant to be catalyzing. The explorer's mindset we advocate requires questioning established practices, reimagining care delivery, and having the courage to venture into unfamiliar territory. As Alex puts it: "I'm optimistic because I think the better days are ahead, because that's my nature, but I'm also realistic that it may take a catastrophe for those models to be absorbed. We just want to be on a good hill when the catastrophe hits." Are you ready to climb that hill? To join us as explorers charting new territories in healthcare transformation? To balance rigorous clinical standards with business innovation? Listen now to discover how adopting an explorer's mindset could transform your practice and ensure our profession remains central to healthcare's future. Because the future of therapy will be written by those willing to explore it – and we believe you have an important chapter to contribute. <h3>Takeaways</h3> <ul><li>The explorer's mindset encourages seeking new horizons in therapy.</li><li>Therapists must adapt to changing healthcare delivery models.</li><li>Curiosity and innovation are essential for professional growth.</li><li>Understanding value-based care is crucial for therapists.</li><li>Therapists need to articulate their value to stakeholders.</li><li>Research consumption strategies can enhance clinical reasoning.</li><li>Collaboration with other healthcare providers is vital.</li><li>Growth can be achieved through efficiency and subtraction.</li><li>Therapists should prepare for risk-based contracts.</li><li>The future of therapy depends on adaptability and exploration.</li></ul> #TherapyLeadership #HealthcareInnovation #PhysicalTherapy #ValueBasedCare #PracticeManagement <a href="https://futureproofpt.notion.site/Future-Proof-PT-Episode-16-Transcript-2592cee6a6d98047a022d3828d6a376d" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Link</a> to the transcript here. <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a> Check out our friend and colleague's *<a href="https://www.aiforpts.com/a/l2oym" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">course on AI for PTs </a>(and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT *affiliate link

Explorers, Innovators, and the Future of Therapy PracticeWhat distinguishes an explorer from a maintainer in the therapy profession? Why are outside disruptors capturing market share while traditional practices struggle? How can clinicians leverage cutting-edge research on mitochondrial DNA and movement disorders to revolutionize treatment approaches? We tackle these questions and more in a dialogue that bridges clinical excellence with business innovation.Alex offers a provocative parable about buying lottery tickets that perfectly captures our profession's hesitation to proactively engage with healthcare transformation. "We're losing workforce," he warns, "but we're still failing to see that we need to go out and look into these risk-based contracts, at least explore, at least understand what they are and how to operationalize them."We examine the stark contrast between traditional care models and patient-centered approaches that leverage technology. Is it better to "hold a patient's hand" through dozens of visits, or transition to guided self-management after fewer sessions? This question gets to the heart of therapy's value proposition in an evolving healthcare ecosystem.The irony doesn't escape us: therapists expertly help patients recognize and build upon their strengths, yet we collectively struggle to do the same for our profession. The gap between the actual value therapists provide and our ability to communicate that value creates the perfect opportunity for disruption – either from outside forces or, ideally, from innovative thinkers within.External disruptors aren't succeeding because they provide better clinical care. They're succeeding because they've packaged therapy expertise in ways that solve specific problems for stakeholders, speaking the language of value, efficiency, and outcomes that resonates with payers and health systems.This conversation isn't meant to be comfortable – it's meant to be catalyzing. The explorer's mindset we advocate requires questioning established practices, reimagining care delivery, and having the courage to venture into unfamiliar territory.As Alex puts it: "I'm optimistic because I think the better days are ahead, because that's my nature, but I'm also realistic that it may take a catastrophe for those models to be absorbed. We just want to be on a good hill when the catastrophe hits."Are you ready to climb that hill? To join us as explorers charting new territories in healthcare transformation? To balance rigorous clinical standards with business innovation?Listen now to discover how adopting an explorer's mindset could transform your practice and ensure our profession remains central to healthcare's future. Because the future of therapy will be written by those willing to explore it – and we believe you have an important chapter to contribute.TakeawaysThe explorer's mindset encourages seeking new horizons in therapy.Therapists must adapt to changing healthcare delivery models.Curiosity and innovation are essential for professional growth.Understanding value-based care is crucial for therapists.Therapists need to articulate their value to stakeholders.Research consumption strategies can enhance clinical reasoning.Collaboration with other healthcare providers is vital.Growth can be achieved through efficiency and subtraction.Therapists should prepare for risk-based contracts.The future of therapy depends on adaptability and exploration.#TherapyLeadership #HealthcareInnovation #PhysicalTherapy #ValueBasedCare #PracticeManagementLink to the transcript here.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelCheck out our friend and colleague's *course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT*affiliate link

Episode 16: The PT Explorer's Mindset | Bridging Research, Disruption, and Innovation

Episode Summary: In the latest episode of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky, along with special guest Jerry Durham, tackle the critical crossroads facing physical therapy as a profession. They challenge listeners to question whether they're functioning as true healthcare professionals or merely "operators" in a broken system.The trio discusses how healthcare is rapidly transforming around us, including recent proposed policy changes in the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule that could significantly impact physical therapists. While time-based providers like primary care physicians are seeing increases of 5-9%, independent PTs face a -1% adjustment. The trio make the case that this should be a wake-up call for the profession. Key topics covered include:<ul><li>The value of hands-on patient relationships in an AI-driven healthcare landscape</li><li>Why team-based care is essential for survival in evolving payment models</li><li>The importance of understanding the broader healthcare ecosystem beyond PT</li><li>Strategies for demonstrating value to referring physicians and payers</li><li>Embracing the shift to outpatient and in-home care</li></ul> This conversation serves as both a warning and a call to action for physical therapists to "look up" from their treatment tables, redefine their professional identity, and secure their place in the healthcare of tomorrow.Whether you're a clinic owner, practicing PT, or student, or in a non-clinical role, this episode delivers uncomfortable truths alongside actionable insights that could transform your approach to practice. You won’t want to miss it. Link to the episode transcript <a href="https://futureproofpt.notion.site/Future-Proof-PT-Episode-15-Transcript-24b2cee6a6d98051a3fbdd9197b5b85b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a> Check out our friend and colleague's *<a href="https://www.aiforpts.com/a/l2oym" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">course on AI for PTs </a>(and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT *affiliate link

Episode Summary:In the latest episode of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky, along with special guest Jerry Durham, tackle the critical crossroads facing physical therapy as a profession. They challenge listeners to question whether they're functioning as true healthcare professionals or merely "operators" in a broken system.The trio discusses how healthcare is rapidly transforming around us, including recent proposed policy changes in the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule that could significantly impact physical therapists. While time-based providers like primary care physicians are seeing increases of 5-9%, independent PTs face a -1% adjustment. The trio make the case that this should be a wake-up call for the profession.Key topics covered include:The value of hands-on patient relationships in an AI-driven healthcare landscapeWhy team-based care is essential for survival in evolving payment modelsThe importance of understanding the broader healthcare ecosystem beyond PTStrategies for demonstrating value to referring physicians and payersEmbracing the shift to outpatient and in-home careThis conversation serves as both a warning and a call to action for physical therapists to "look up" from their treatment tables, redefine their professional identity, and secure their place in the healthcare of tomorrow.Whether you're a clinic owner, practicing PT, or student, or in a non-clinical role, this episode delivers uncomfortable truths alongside actionable insights that could transform your approach to practice. You won’t want to miss it.Link to the episode transcript here.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelCheck out our friend and colleague's *course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT*affiliate link

Episode 15: Beyond the Treatment Session | Physical Therapists who Dare to Look Up

Dana and Alex explore the Therapy Value Quotient, an objective framework for measuring clinical impact that goes beyond subjective reasoning. Learn a practical algorithm that factors in functional improvement, patient complexity, care intensity, and cost—plus why establishing clear therapy prognoses is essential for professional survival. Key topics covered in this episode: objective clinical measures, therapy prognosis, value-based care, capitation, long-term patient relationships, and preparing for AI-driven healthcare analytics.Essential listening for therapists ready to prove their value in measurable ways while maintaining meaningful patient connections. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!</a> Check out our friend and colleague's <a href="https://www.aiforpts.com/a/l2oym" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">course on AI for PTs </a>(and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT Sponsored by Saatva Mattresses:<a href="https://saatva.partnerlinks.io/m0got0v5u0eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses </a>or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time! Future Proof PT helps physical therapists navigate the changing healthcare landscape and build sustainable, value-driven practices.

Dana and Alex explore the Therapy Value Quotient, an objective framework for measuring clinical impact that goes beyond subjective reasoning. Learn a practical algorithm that factors in functional improvement, patient complexity, care intensity, and cost—plus why establishing clear therapy prognoses is essential for professional survival.Key topics covered in this episode: objective clinical measures, therapy prognosis, value-based care, capitation, long-term patient relationships, and preparing for AI-driven healthcare analytics.Essential listening for therapists ready to prove their value in measurable ways while maintaining meaningful patient connections.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelSign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Check out our friend and colleague's course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPTSponsored by Saatva Mattresses: use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time!Future Proof PT helps physical therapists navigate the changing healthcare landscape and build sustainable, value-driven practices.

Episode 14: How Precise is your Prognosis?

Physical Therapists, listen up! "Make America Healthy Again," or MAHA, is a chance to improve the professional identify of PTs regardless of politics! It's a chance to embrace and highlight the profession and its doctoral status and to position its reputation as long-term partners in patients'/the population's MSK health as opposed to merely providers of episodic care. PTs can and should be the "quarterbacks" of MSK care. That will mean eliminating some of our vocabulary and leaning into other expressions. MAHA isn't just a chance for the profession's perception. It's an opportunity to attract well-deserved reimbursement improvements. Here's what you'll learn when you tune in: <ul><li>How government healthcare initiatives create opportunities for physical therapists to advance the profession, and why you should embrace the positive of new positioning, regardless of political affiliations or biases</li><li>Why PTs should position themselves as "quarterbacks" of musculoskeletal care</li><li>The importance of using doctoral titles, professional language, and of obtaining your tDPT if you graduated PT school prior to the DPT (like Dana!)</li><li>Why you should remove "discharge" from your clinical vocabulary</li><li>Potential challenges for the profession: reimbursement, resource limitations, and outcomes tracking</li></ul> We make the case for PTs to step up as lifetime partners in MSK health and ditch the notion of being solely providers of episodic care. And we encourage you to embrace the top of scope positioning of PTs and argue it's a "must-do" to secure a future we are all proud of. Enjoy the conversation and the practical insights on how to position yourself, your practice, and your profession for future success in a changing healthcare landscape. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FutureProofPT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our YouTube Channel</a> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!</a> Check out our friend and colleague's <a href="https://www.aiforpts.com/a/l2oym " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">course on AI for PTs </a>(and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT Sponsored by Saatva Mattresses:<a href="https://saatva.partnerlinks.io/m0got0v5u0eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses </a>or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time!

Physical Therapists, listen up! "Make America Healthy Again," or MAHA, is a chance to improve the professional identify of PTs regardless of politics! It's a chance to embrace and highlight the profession and its doctoral status and to position its reputation as long-term partners in patients'/the population's MSK health as opposed to merely providers of episodic care. PTs can and should be the "quarterbacks" of MSK care. That will mean eliminating some of our vocabulary and leaning into other expressions. MAHA isn't just a chance for the profession's perception. It's an opportunity to attract well-deserved reimbursement improvements. Here's what you'll learn when you tune in:How government healthcare initiatives create opportunities for physical therapists to advance the profession, and why you should embrace the positive of new positioning, regardless of political affiliations or biasesWhy PTs should position themselves as "quarterbacks" of musculoskeletal careThe importance of using doctoral titles, professional language, and of obtaining your tDPT if you graduated PT school prior to the DPT (like Dana!)Why you should remove "discharge" from your clinical vocabularyPotential challenges for the profession: reimbursement, resource limitations, and outcomes trackingWe make the case for PTs to step up as lifetime partners in MSK health and ditch the notion of being solely providers of episodic care. And we encourage you to embrace the top of scope positioning of PTs and argue it's a "must-do" to secure a future we are all proud of.Enjoy the conversation and the practical insights on how to position yourself, your practice, and your profession for future success in a changing healthcare landscape. Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelSign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Check out our friend and colleague's course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPTSponsored by Saatva Mattresses: use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time!

Episode 13: Is "Make American Healthy Again" the Next Big Opportunity for Physical Therapists?

Ready to revolutionize your PT career? Think of it like Wayne Gretzky's famous quote - skate to where the puck is going, not where it's been. In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, having a game plan for your career as part of the PT profession (clinical, non-clinical, or both) isn't just nice-to-have, it's essential for survival. The signs of change are everywhere if you know where to look. Want the inside scoop? Follow the money and the power players. Watch what policymakers and their advisors are saying and doing, and keep your eyes on where big investors are placing their bets - that's key to reading the proverbial tea leaves. Let's talk about our profession's journey. Physical therapy has come a long way in fighting for autonomy - you know, breaking free from needing that doctor's prescription to treat patients. But while we were focused on that battle, we might have missed some existential challenges. Take the fee-for-service system, for instance. It's like a bad relationship - it's not just hurting us, it's impacting how other providers coordinate and collaborate with us. making sure patients get to us. Even worse? It's pushed us to focus on visit counts rather than what really matters: individualized treatment plans, proper dosing, and patient outcomes. This affects how everyone sees PT - from insurance companies to doctors to patients themselves. Many view therapy as this huge time commitment, rather than seeing its true value. Not great, right? In this episode, Alex and I are talking about this. We're tackling Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) and its connection to the recently update Innovation Center Strategy - stuff that could completely reshape your practice. This isn't just about boring billing codes - it's about positioning yourself at the cutting edge of healthcare. We are sharing helpful insights about healthcare tech, new payment models, and what it means for your future. Plus, you won't want to miss Alex's brilliant "train model" that perfectly shows how digital and in-person care can work together seamlessly. We're also sharing what the CMS Innovation Center leadership said in their blog and in recent public appearances about their vision for healthcare's future. Every week, we update our Resources Database, which is available to all newsletter subscribers. Not a subscriber yet? <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sign up here! </a>It's free and we send valuable resources right to your inbox every week. Chapters 00:00 The Future of Care Delivery Models06:00 The Importance of Quality Data in EMR Systems08:35 Navigating Regulatory Changes in Healthcare10:46 The Impact of Technology on Patient Care13:41 Conclusion and Future Directions18:37 Innovative Models in Medicare Services20:42 The Role of Data in Patient Care22:33 Future of Therapy: Embracing Change25:43 Case Studies: Remote Therapeutic Monitoring28:14 Valuing Preventive Care in Therapy32:08 Understanding Episode Groupers36:10 Collaboration Across Disciplines40:13 Advocacy and Access to Care

Ready to revolutionize your PT career? Think of it like Wayne Gretzky's famous quote - skate to where the puck is going, not where it's been. In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, having a game plan for your career as part of the PT profession (clinical, non-clinical, or both) isn't just nice-to-have, it's essential for survival.The signs of change are everywhere if you know where to look. Want the inside scoop? Follow the money and the power players. Watch what policymakers and their advisors are saying and doing, and keep your eyes on where big investors are placing their bets - that's key to reading the proverbial tea leaves.Let's talk about our profession's journey. Physical therapy has come a long way in fighting for autonomy - you know, breaking free from needing that doctor's prescription to treat patients. But while we were focused on that battle, we might have missed some existential challenges.Take the fee-for-service system, for instance. It's like a bad relationship - it's not just hurting us, it's impacting how other providers coordinate and collaborate with us. making sure patients get to us. Even worse? It's pushed us to focus on visit counts rather than what really matters: individualized treatment plans, proper dosing, and patient outcomes.This affects how everyone sees PT - from insurance companies to doctors to patients themselves. Many view therapy as this huge time commitment, rather than seeing its true value. Not great, right?In this episode, Alex and I are talking about this. We're tackling Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) and its connection to the recently update Innovation Center Strategy - stuff that could completely reshape your practice. This isn't just about boring billing codes - it's about positioning yourself at the cutting edge of healthcare.We are sharing helpful insights about healthcare tech, new payment models, and what it means for your future. Plus, you won't want to miss Alex's brilliant "train model" that perfectly shows how digital and in-person care can work together seamlessly.We're also sharing what the CMS Innovation Center leadership said in their blog and in recent public appearances about their vision for healthcare's future. Every week, we update our Resources Database, which is available to all newsletter subscribers. Not a subscriber yet? Sign up here! It's free and we send valuable resources right to your inbox every week.Chapters00:00 The Future of Care Delivery Models06:00 The Importance of Quality Data in EMR Systems08:35 Navigating Regulatory Changes in Healthcare10:46 The Impact of Technology on Patient Care13:41 Conclusion and Future Directions18:37 Innovative Models in Medicare Services20:42 The Role of Data in Patient Care22:33 Future of Therapy: Embracing Change25:43 Case Studies: Remote Therapeutic Monitoring28:14 Valuing Preventive Care in Therapy32:08 Understanding Episode Groupers36:10 Collaboration Across Disciplines40:13 Advocacy and Access to Care

Episode 12: Digital Meet Physical: The Next Era of Physical Therapy

In Episode 11 of Future-Proof PT, we're joined again by Cody Lee, a dynamic early-career PT who's revolutionizing physical therapy practice in Alabama. Get ready for a thought-provoking journey into the intersection of traditional PT and cutting-edge technology. Cody shares his firsthand experience fighting for direct access at the state level while pioneering AI integration in clinical settings - two movements that are reshaping our profession's future. We tackle burning questions about autonomous practice and , dive deep into why functional measurements matter in assessing patient risk, and explore how PTs can leverage artificial intelligence without losing the human touch that makes our profession special. Whether you're a clinical practitioner or working away from the bedside, this episode offers fresh perspectives on where physical therapy is headed. Don't miss Cody's game-changing insights and a sneak peek at his upcoming AI for PT course that promises to transform how we approach patient care. This is more than just another healthcare tech discussion - it's a roadmap for staying relevant in an evolving healthcare landscape! Get his free download of <a href="https://codylee.podia.com/10-high-impact-ai-prompts-for-pts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">10 High Impact AI Prompts for PTs here!</a>Check out his course <a href="https://codylee.podia.com/ai-for-pts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">AI for PTs here!</a> Some Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Direct access and primary care PT may not be one and the same. Professional vs. Personal scope of practice are important to distinguish.2. AI integration in physical therapy practice can enhance evidence-based decision-making while maintaining personal touch3. The APTA's role should extend beyond clinical practice support to include non-clinical professionals shaping healthcare itself4. Risk stratification models should incorporate functional metrics for comprehensive patient care5. Professional growth opportunities exist beyond traditional clinical roles in physical therapy6. Technology adoption in practice can streamline documentation and improve treatment planning7. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is essential for advancing the profession8. Continuing education in emerging technologies is crucial for career advancement9. The DPT role in autonomous practice continues to evolve with changing healthcare landscapes10. Prevention-focused care models are gaining importance in physical therapy practice11. Understanding healthcare policy impacts clinical and non-clinical practice decisions12. Professional advocacy requires engagement at multiple levels 13. Evidence-based practice can be enhanced through technological tools and resources14. The future of PT includes diverse career paths beyond traditional clinical settings, and we should support that15. Healthcare reimbursement models are evolving to include preventative care16. PTs can influence professional development through technology adoption17. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for long-term career success in PT Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode04:05 Advocacy and Direct Access in Physical Therapy06:11 Challenges and Perspectives on Direct Access09:02 The Role of Education and Certification in Direct Access11:14 AI in Clinical Practice: Enhancing Decision-Making17:41 The Future of AI and Data Utilization in Physical Therapy25:56 Optimizing Workforce Encounters26:30 Standardizing Data for Improvement28:31 Building Feedback Loops in Clinics29:54 Utilizing EMR Data for Risk Assessment30:36 The Importance of Functional Status in Risk Stratification32:56 Advocating for Inclusion in APTA34:52 The Role of Non-Clinical Professionals36:00 Looking Ahead: Future of Physical Therapy Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast, and thank you for being a part of this community!

In Episode 11 of Future-Proof PT, we're joined again by Cody Lee, a dynamic early-career PT who's revolutionizing physical therapy practice in Alabama. Get ready for a thought-provoking journey into the intersection of traditional PT and cutting-edge technology. Cody shares his firsthand experience fighting for direct access at the state level while pioneering AI integration in clinical settings - two movements that are reshaping our profession's future.We tackle burning questions about autonomous practice and , dive deep into why functional measurements matter in assessing patient risk, and explore how PTs can leverage artificial intelligence without losing the human touch that makes our profession special. Whether you're a clinical practitioner or working away from the bedside, this episode offers fresh perspectives on where physical therapy is headed.Don't miss Cody's game-changing insights and a sneak peek at his upcoming AI for PT course that promises to transform how we approach patient care. This is more than just another healthcare tech discussion - it's a roadmap for staying relevant in an evolving healthcare landscape!Get his free download of 10 High Impact AI Prompts for PTs here!Check out his course AI for PTs here!Some Key Takeaways from the Episode:1. Direct access and primary care PT may not be one and the same. Professional vs. Personal scope of practice are important to distinguish.2. AI integration in physical therapy practice can enhance evidence-based decision-making while maintaining personal touch3. The APTA's role should extend beyond clinical practice support to include non-clinical professionals shaping healthcare itself4. Risk stratification models should incorporate functional metrics for comprehensive patient care5. Professional growth opportunities exist beyond traditional clinical roles in physical therapy6. Technology adoption in practice can streamline documentation and improve treatment planning7. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is essential for advancing the profession8. Continuing education in emerging technologies is crucial for career advancement9. The DPT role in autonomous practice continues to evolve with changing healthcare landscapes10. Prevention-focused care models are gaining importance in physical therapy practice11. Understanding healthcare policy impacts clinical and non-clinical practice decisions12. Professional advocacy requires engagement at multiple levels 13. Evidence-based practice can be enhanced through technological tools and resources14. The future of PT includes diverse career paths beyond traditional clinical settings, and we should support that15. Healthcare reimbursement models are evolving to include preventative care16. PTs can influence professional development through technology adoption17. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for long-term career success in PTChapters:00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode04:05 Advocacy and Direct Access in Physical Therapy06:11 Challenges and Perspectives on Direct Access09:02 The Role of Education and Certification in Direct Access11:14 AI in Clinical Practice: Enhancing Decision-Making17:41 The Future of AI and Data Utilization in Physical Therapy25:56 Optimizing Workforce Encounters26:30 Standardizing Data for Improvement28:31 Building Feedback Loops in Clinics29:54 Utilizing EMR Data for Risk Assessment30:36 The Importance of Functional Status in Risk Stratification32:56 Advocating for Inclusion in APTA34:52 The Role of Non-Clinical Professionals36:00 Looking Ahead: Future of Physical TherapyDon't forget to subscribe to the podcast, and thank you for being a part of this community!

Episode 11: PT Professionals, Stop Limiting Yourself | AI, Autonomy, Advocacy, and Action

Join Dana and Alex as they sit down with rising PT star Cody Lee, PT, DPT, to explore how the next generation of physical therapists is reshaping healthcare delivery. In this engaging conversation, Cody shares his journey as an early-career clinician who's already making waves in the industry with his innovative approach to value-based care. Key highlights from this episode include:• How Cody is implementing value-based care principles in his daily practice • The importance of servant leadership in healthcare • Real insights into building strong professional communities and mentorship networks • A candid discussion about the challenges facing new PTs, including the critical issue of education costs versus earning potential • Vision for the future of physical therapy and strategies for keeping talented clinicians in the field Whether you're a seasoned PT professional or just starting your career, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a sustainable and fulfilling practice. Cody's fresh outlook, combined with Alex and Dana's experienced insights, creates a compelling dialogue about where the profession is headed and how we can work together to improve patient care while supporting clinician growth. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that proves leadership and innovation can come at any stage of your career. This episode will leave you feeling optimistic about the future of physical therapy and equipped with practical ideas for elevating your own practice. Do you subscribe to our newsletter? If not, and If you'd like to receive a subscribers-only Resources Database that we add to after every episode, <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">you can subscribe here</a>. Chapters <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">00:00</a> Introduction to Future Proof PT Podcast and Guest Introduction<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=195s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">03:15</a> Cody Lee's Background and Early Career Insights<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=366s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">06:06</a> Value-Based Care in Practice: Patient Stories<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=547s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">09:07</a> Building Referral Networks in Healthcare<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=724s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">12:04</a> Involvement with Alabama Physical Therapy Association<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=902s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">15:02</a> Challenges in the Physical Therapy Profession<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=1100s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">18:20</a> Productivity Pressure in Physical Therapy<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=1272s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">21:12</a> Leveraging Technology in Patient Care<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=1700s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">28:20</a> Enhancing Clinical Reasoning with AI<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=1823s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">30:23</a> The Importance of Human Expertise in Therapy<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=1944s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">32:24</a> Building Professional Networks and Asking for Help<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=2210s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">36:50</a> Patient-Centered Care and Communication<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=2341s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">39:01</a> The Philosophy of Servant Leadership<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95E37VFgwjM&t=2564s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05); color: inherit;">42:44</a> Supporting Young Clinicians in Their Careers47:28 Navigating Financial Challenges in Physical Therapy We hope you follow us and enjoy the episode!

Join Dana and Alex as they sit down with rising PT star Cody Lee, PT, DPT, to explore how the next generation of physical therapists is reshaping healthcare delivery. In this engaging conversation, Cody shares his journey as an early-career clinician who's already making waves in the industry with his innovative approach to value-based care.Key highlights from this episode include:• How Cody is implementing value-based care principles in his daily practice • The importance of servant leadership in healthcare • Real insights into building strong professional communities and mentorship networks • A candid discussion about the challenges facing new PTs, including the critical issue of education costs versus earning potential • Vision for the future of physical therapy and strategies for keeping talented clinicians in the fieldWhether you're a seasoned PT professional or just starting your career, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a sustainable and fulfilling practice. Cody's fresh outlook, combined with Alex and Dana's experienced insights, creates a compelling dialogue about where the profession is headed and how we can work together to improve patient care while supporting clinician growth.Don't miss this inspiring conversation that proves leadership and innovation can come at any stage of your career. This episode will leave you feeling optimistic about the future of physical therapy and equipped with practical ideas for elevating your own practice.Do you subscribe to our newsletter? If not, and If you'd like to receive a subscribers-only Resources Database that we add to after every episode, you can subscribe here.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Future Proof PT Podcast and Guest Introduction03:15 Cody Lee's Background and Early Career Insights06:06 Value-Based Care in Practice: Patient Stories09:07 Building Referral Networks in Healthcare12:04 Involvement with Alabama Physical Therapy Association15:02 Challenges in the Physical Therapy Profession18:20 Productivity Pressure in Physical Therapy21:12 Leveraging Technology in Patient Care28:20 Enhancing Clinical Reasoning with AI30:23 The Importance of Human Expertise in Therapy32:24 Building Professional Networks and Asking for Help36:50 Patient-Centered Care and Communication39:01 The Philosophy of Servant Leadership42:44 Supporting Young Clinicians in Their Careers47:28 Navigating Financial Challenges in Physical TherapyWe hope you follow us and enjoy the episode!

Episode 10: Early Career Excellence | A Fresh Perspective on Value-Based Physical Therapy

For Episode Nine, we welcome back guest Ben Galin, PT, DPT, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of physical and occupational therapy, using the role of PTAs and COTAs as a springboard for broader industry discussion. The conversation begins with examining how PTAs and COTAs are utilized in various healthcare settings, challenging the cookie-cutter approach to their deployment. The discussion reveals that PTAs often demonstrate exceptional career mobility, with many advancing into management positions and finding success in digital health platforms. A significant portion delves into critical policy issues affecting the profession, including:<ul><li>The need to reclassify PTs as "practitioners" alongside other healthcare providers like dietitians and behavioral health specialists</li><li>The importance of shifting focus from fighting Medicare cuts to pursuing more achievable policy goals that could fundamentally change the profession</li><li>The complexities of state-level versus federal-level advocacy, highlighting how state-level changes can often be achieved more quickly and effectively</li><li>The hosts and guest examine how digital health is reshaping traditional supervision ratios and practice models, while also addressing the profession's ongoing challenges with direct access and professional autonomy.</li></ul> This episode provides valuable insights for physical therapy professionals at all levels, offering a strategic vision for advancing the profession through targeted policy changes and adaptation to emerging healthcare delivery models. Chapters 00:00 The Role of PTAs and COTAs in Therapy06:08 Challenges in Career Advancement for Assistants10:42 Operational Models and Supervision in Therapy16:11 State Regulations and the Future of PTAs22:19 Advocacy and Legislative Challenges in Healthcare27:59 Understanding the Role of Professional Associations29:50 Navigating Changes in Healthcare Policy32:26 The Importance of Practitioner Recognition35:22 Addressing Friction Points in Healthcare39:04 The Need for Change in Perception and Policy41:56 Identifying Actionable Wins for the Profession <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> and receive an exclusive resources page that we add to every week!

For Episode Nine, we welcome back guest Ben Galin, PT, DPT, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of physical and occupational therapy, using the role of PTAs and COTAs as a springboard for broader industry discussion.The conversation begins with examining how PTAs and COTAs are utilized in various healthcare settings, challenging the cookie-cutter approach to their deployment. The discussion reveals that PTAs often demonstrate exceptional career mobility, with many advancing into management positions and finding success in digital health platforms.A significant portion delves into critical policy issues affecting the profession, including:The need to reclassify PTs as "practitioners" alongside other healthcare providers like dietitians and behavioral health specialistsThe importance of shifting focus from fighting Medicare cuts to pursuing more achievable policy goals that could fundamentally change the professionThe complexities of state-level versus federal-level advocacy, highlighting how state-level changes can often be achieved more quickly and effectivelyThe hosts and guest examine how digital health is reshaping traditional supervision ratios and practice models, while also addressing the profession's ongoing challenges with direct access and professional autonomy.This episode provides valuable insights for physical therapy professionals at all levels, offering a strategic vision for advancing the profession through targeted policy changes and adaptation to emerging healthcare delivery models.Chapters00:00 The Role of PTAs and COTAs in Therapy06:08 Challenges in Career Advancement for Assistants10:42 Operational Models and Supervision in Therapy16:11 State Regulations and the Future of PTAs22:19 Advocacy and Legislative Challenges in Healthcare27:59 Understanding the Role of Professional Associations29:50 Navigating Changes in Healthcare Policy32:26 The Importance of Practitioner Recognition35:22 Addressing Friction Points in Healthcare39:04 The Need for Change in Perception and Policy41:56 Identifying Actionable Wins for the ProfessionSubscribe to our newsletter and receive an exclusive resources page that we add to every week!

The Practitioner Paradigm | The Most Critical Health Policy Issue

In Episode 8 of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky engage in a deep discussion with veteran physical therapist Ben Galin about the critical evolution of physical therapy practice. With 25 years of diverse clinical experience, Galin shares valuable insights on the transition from traditional fee-for-service models to value-based care. The conversation delves into several key themes: <ul><li>The "51% substance" principle - emphasizing the importance of delivering meaningful, evidence-based care while acknowledging the role of patient engagement techniques</li><li class="ql-indent-1">How this ratio often becomes distorted in traditional fee-for-service models, potentially leading to only 25% substantive care</li><li class="ql-indent-1">The challenge of maintaining clinical value while meeting patient expectations</li><li>Treatment modalities and their true value</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Critical examination of common interventions like cupping, needling, and manual therapy</li><li class="ql-indent-1">The role of placebo effects and their ethical implementation in treatment</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Breaking away from historical expectations of passive modalities</li><li>Digital health transformation</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Benefits of removing non-substantive elements in virtual care delivery</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Focus on evidence-based therapeutic exercise and education</li><li>Collaborative care model</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Horizontal integration with other healthcare providers</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Importance of timely referrals and professional networks</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Recognition of treatment limitations and appropriate escalation of care</li><li>The episode concludes with a compelling vision for the future of physical therapy, emphasizing the need for evidence-based practice, strategic collaboration, and a commitment to meaningful patient outcomes rather than traditional treatment metrics.</li></ul> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Subscribe to our newsletter here</a>, and receive a link to resources that we update weekly after each episode!

In Episode 8 of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky engage in a deep discussion with veteran physical therapist Ben Galin about the critical evolution of physical therapy practice. With 25 years of diverse clinical experience, Galin shares valuable insights on the transition from traditional fee-for-service models to value-based care.The conversation delves into several key themes:The "51% substance" principle - emphasizing the importance of delivering meaningful, evidence-based care while acknowledging the role of patient engagement techniquesHow this ratio often becomes distorted in traditional fee-for-service models, potentially leading to only 25% substantive careThe challenge of maintaining clinical value while meeting patient expectationsTreatment modalities and their true valueCritical examination of common interventions like cupping, needling, and manual therapyThe role of placebo effects and their ethical implementation in treatmentBreaking away from historical expectations of passive modalitiesDigital health transformationBenefits of removing non-substantive elements in virtual care deliveryFocus on evidence-based therapeutic exercise and educationCollaborative care modelHorizontal integration with other healthcare providersImportance of timely referrals and professional networksRecognition of treatment limitations and appropriate escalation of careThe episode concludes with a compelling vision for the future of physical therapy, emphasizing the need for evidence-based practice, strategic collaboration, and a commitment to meaningful patient outcomes rather than traditional treatment metrics.Subscribe to our newsletter here, and receive a link to resources that we update weekly after each episode!

Transforming Physical Therapy Practice | The Time is Now

<img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==">In this episode of Future Proof PT, we dive deep into two game-changing models of care provision that could reshape physical therapy practice: First, we explore the TEAM model (Transforming Episode Accountability Model), a Medicare acute episodes of care affecting about 740 hospitals nationwide. Learn how this model creates opportunities for outpatient PT (and OT) practices and why rethinking post-acute care transitions could lead to better patient outcomes. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==">Then, we uncover the proven success of PTs as primary care providers (PCPs) in the military model - a system that's been delivering results since 1974! Discover the four key domains that validate PT effectiveness as PCPs: <ul><li>Clinical effectiveness in musculoskeletal care</li><li>Outstanding safety profile</li><li>Cost effectiveness</li><li>Reduced downstream healthcare utilization</li></ul> <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAP///wAAACH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAICRAEAOw==">For clinicians feeling burnt out: This episode offers a fresh perspective on elevating your practice and embracing new opportunities in team-based care. Don't miss this crucial conversation about the future of our profession and how we can deliver more value to our healthcare system! <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe to our newsletter </a>and receive our Resources Database. This page is updated weekly with resources from the latest episode and is only available to subscribers!

In this episode of Future Proof PT, we dive deep into two game-changing models of care provision that could reshape physical therapy practice: First, we explore the TEAM model (Transforming Episode Accountability Model), a Medicare acute episodes of care affecting about 740 hospitals nationwide. Learn how this model creates opportunities for outpatient PT (and OT) practices and why rethinking post-acute care transitions could lead to better patient outcomes.Then, we uncover the proven success of PTs as primary care providers (PCPs) in the military model - a system that's been delivering results since 1974! Discover the four key domains that validate PT effectiveness as PCPs:Clinical effectiveness in musculoskeletal careOutstanding safety profileCost effectivenessReduced downstream healthcare utilizationFor clinicians feeling burnt out: This episode offers a fresh perspective on elevating your practice and embracing new opportunities in team-based care.Don't miss this crucial conversation about the future of our profession and how we can deliver more value to our healthcare system!Subscribe to our newsletter and receive our Resources Database. This page is updated weekly with resources from the latest episode and is only available to subscribers!

Episode 7: Intro to the TEAM Model and PTs as PCPs in the Military

Summary: In this episode of the Future Proof PT podcast, Dana and Alex delve into the economic implications of healthcare with a focus on musculoskeletal disorders. They discuss the concepts of QALY and DALY, emphasizing the importance of understanding these metrics in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. The hosts highlight the value of physical therapy as an investment in health, the impact of productivity loss due to days away from work, and the need for therapists to embrace technology. They also explore the distinction between patient needs and wants, the importance of patient autonomy, and the role of therapists in the healthcare ecosystem. They conclude with a call to action for therapists to advocate for their profession and build trust within the healthcare community. Takeaways: <ul><li>Physical therapist care is an investment in overall health.</li><li>Understanding QALY and DALY is crucial for evaluating interventions.</li><li>The economic burden of musculoskeletal disorders is significant.</li><li>Days away from work reflects productivity loss and impacts healthcare economics.</li><li>Therapists need to embrace technology to enhance patient care.</li><li>Therapists need to move beyond filling prescriptions and establish themselves as primary care providers for musculoskeletal health</li><li>There is a need to differentiate between patient needs and wants in therapy.</li><li>Building trust in the healthcare ecosystem is essential for therapists.</li><li>Agency in physical therapy is vital for professional satisfaction.</li><li>The future of physical therapy lies in value-based care models.</li><li>Therapists must advocate for their profession by better quantifying and communicating its value to improve public perception, including that of payers, at-risk providers, and healthcare systems.</li></ul> <a href="https://future-proof-pt.beehiiv.com/subscribe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe for free to Future Proof PT </a>and receive a resource database that we add to every week, as well as a direct link to the full episode resources, as well as the YouTube version of the podcast. Please follow and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast apps and YouTube. It helps those algorithms show our content to others who can benefit. Plus, we are starting a movement! The more we can reach as we build this in public, the better. Thank you for listening! Alex and Dana

Summary:In this episode of the Future Proof PT podcast, Dana and Alex delve into the economic implications of healthcare with a focus on musculoskeletal disorders. They discuss the concepts of QALY and DALY, emphasizing the importance of understanding these metrics in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. The hosts highlight the value of physical therapy as an investment in health, the impact of productivity loss due to days away from work, and the need for therapists to embrace technology. They also explore the distinction between patient needs and wants, the importance of patient autonomy, and the role of therapists in the healthcare ecosystem. They conclude with a call to action for therapists to advocate for their profession and build trust within the healthcare community.Takeaways:Physical therapist care is an investment in overall health.Understanding QALY and DALY is crucial for evaluating interventions.The economic burden of musculoskeletal disorders is significant.Days away from work reflects productivity loss and impacts healthcare economics.Therapists need to embrace technology to enhance patient care.Therapists need to move beyond filling prescriptions and establish themselves as primary care providers for musculoskeletal healthThere is a need to differentiate between patient needs and wants in therapy.Building trust in the healthcare ecosystem is essential for therapists.Agency in physical therapy is vital for professional satisfaction.The future of physical therapy lies in value-based care models.Therapists must advocate for their profession by better quantifying and communicating its value to improve public perception, including that of payers, at-risk providers, and healthcare systems.Subscribe for free to Future Proof PT and receive a resource database that we add to every week, as well as a direct link to the full episode resources, as well as the YouTube version of the podcast.Please follow and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast apps and YouTube. It helps those algorithms show our content to others who can benefit.Plus, we are starting a movement! The more we can reach as we build this in public, the better.Thank you for listening!Alex and Dana

Beyond the Clinic: The Real Price of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Below by Notion AI from the transcript: A detailed discussion exploring the complex dynamics of value-based care in the musculoskeletal health sector. The conversation covers patient-reported outcome measures, healthcare system challenges, and the future of healthcare delivery in the United States. Takeaways from Riverside AI: Takeaways and Chapters by Riverside AI <ul><li>The role of clinicians is multifaceted and influenced by various factors.</li><li>Transitioning to value-based care requires a shift in mindset and practice.</li><li>Markers of success in healthcare are often arbitrary and need reevaluation.</li><li>Clarity and alignment in professional roles are crucial for effective care delivery.</li><li>Autonomy in clinical practice is essential for personal and professional growth.</li><li>Critical thinking is vital for therapists to navigate complex patient needs.</li><li>Adaptability is key to thriving in value-based care models.</li><li>Patient engagement is a critical component of successful healthcare delivery.</li><li>Accountability in healthcare extends beyond individual patient interactions.</li><li>Quality metrics and patient outcomes are essential for evaluating care effectiveness.</li></ul>

Below by Notion AI from the transcript:A detailed discussion exploring the complex dynamics of value-based care in the musculoskeletal health sector. The conversation covers patient-reported outcome measures, healthcare system challenges, and the future of healthcare delivery in the United States.Takeaways from Riverside AI:Takeaways and Chapters by Riverside AIThe role of clinicians is multifaceted and influenced by various factors.Transitioning to value-based care requires a shift in mindset and practice.Markers of success in healthcare are often arbitrary and need reevaluation.Clarity and alignment in professional roles are crucial for effective care delivery.Autonomy in clinical practice is essential for personal and professional growth.Critical thinking is vital for therapists to navigate complex patient needs.Adaptability is key to thriving in value-based care models.Patient engagement is a critical component of successful healthcare delivery.Accountability in healthcare extends beyond individual patient interactions.Quality metrics and patient outcomes are essential for evaluating care effectiveness.

Episode Five: The Rules and Roles of Value-Based Musculoskeletal Care

Want to stay ahead of the curve in physical therapy? Future Proof PT brings you straight-talking, no-nonsense conversations about what really matters in healthcare today. From dissecting policy risks and opportunities to exploring innovative practice and payment models to practical ways to accelerate your career growth, we're your go-to source for understanding the forces reshaping our profession and the healthcare industry at large. Through candid dialogue and real-world perspectives, we're building a community of forward-thinking professionals working both in and out of direct patient care. They aren't just adapting to change – they're shaping it. Whether you're looking to understand market dynamics or seeking professional growth, each episode delivers actionable insights that will transform how you view the future of healthcare. Come join the conversation!

Want to stay ahead of the curve in physical therapy? Future Proof PT brings you straight-talking, no-nonsense conversations about what really matters in healthcare today. From dissecting policy risks and opportunities to exploring innovative practice and payment models to practical ways to accelerate your career growth, we're your go-to source for understanding the forces reshaping our profession and the healthcare industry at large.Through candid dialogue and real-world perspectives, we're building a community of forward-thinking professionals working both in and out of direct patient care. They aren't just adapting to change – they're shaping it.Whether you're looking to understand market dynamics or seeking professional growth, each episode delivers actionable insights that will transform how you view the future of healthcare. Come join the conversation!

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Future-Proof PT

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