Samaritan Healthcare | The Samaritan | Spring 2019

2 | THE SAMARITAN Physical Therapy staff members earn MDT credentials Patient-centered approach shows results Our Physical Therapists: Our skilled physical therapy professionals at Samaritan provide quality outpatient and inpatient rehabilitative care. They specialize in evaluating and treating conditions such as pre- and post-surgical care, pain in the back, neck, and extremities, strains and sprains, injuries related to work or sports, neurological or orthopaedic injuries, and more. “MDT’s more-reliable method of examination leads to a better matching of treatments and an enhanced patient experience, whether it is conservative care of physical therapy or a referral to another specialist.” “MDT empowers patients to take control of their pain with targeted exercises and a clear explanation of the problem. I love seeing a patient understand that they now have control over their situation.” “Education is probably the most important component of what we do for our clients, family members, and caregivers—to help you achieve your highest level of function and independence.” “Consistent evaluation and treatment of patients with MDT, enables therapists to filter those who will not respond to mechanical therapy, leading to more effective treatment and a faster return to a patient’s desired activities.” MDT Credentials All of our physical therapists are credentialed in the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT). The MDT process is an assessment with a patient-centered approach aimed at active patient involvement that allows you to control your own pain from the guidance you receive from a certified McKenzie provider and knowledge about movements that promote healing. It is known to show results in as little as two to three visits. Janice Liechty, PT, and Ryan Carpenter, DPT, are the most recent therapists to become fully MDT credentialed—joining Eric Olson, PT, and Alan Badgley, DPT, who have been credentialed for 10 and 5 years respectively. The process involves progressive learning through four courses followed by a written and practical exam. Continued learning through the McKenzie Institute maintains certification credentials. “The final certification comes down to coursework and the exam, but preparation and understanding the MDT methods prior to the exam takes place over two to three years of studying and clinical application with colleagues,” said Eric Olson, physical therapy director at Samaritan. “Having fully credentialed staff allows like-minded collaboration in the pursuit of better outcomes for our patients.” Our state-of-the-art physical therapy approach further strengthens our relationship with our primary providers as well as the specialty surgical orthopaedic and podiatry programs. Every joint in the body—now better cared for only at Samaritan. Physical Therapy News You may not need a physician referral for outpatient services at Samaritan Physical Therapy. To learn more, visit our office at Samaritan Hospital, 801 E. Wheeler Road or call (509) 793-9605. Eric Olson, PT, Cert. MDT Alan Badgley, DPT, Cert. MDT Janice Liechty, PT, Cert. MDT Ryan Carpenter, DPT, Cert. MDT