When you think of your favorite physical therapist, how do you visualize them? Does the phrase “always on the move” sound about right? Although the Rehabilitation Department is full of these amazing, busy professionals, sometimes they, too, need a little help. So, we’ve recently welcomed traveling staff to assist them with their growing caseload.

“As health care workers, we truly care about our patients, our friends, our neighbors and our community,” said Lori Denman, Rehabilitation Manager. “We want them to get the care they need as soon as possible. “Our travelers have been interviewed as if they were being considered for a full-time job to ensure they’re a good fit for our facility,” Denman said. “Having Sarah, Sarah and Marco has helped us continue to care for patients in a timely manner. The rehab department, the hospital and the community have been very fortunate to have them for the past several months.”

‘While we continue to search for additional permanent staff, our temporary workers areproviding excellent care. They hold the same credentials and experience as permanent hires but contract to work in shorter stints at health care systems around the country. Traveling therapists are not just used in rural settings. The current staffing shortage is affecting health care organizations everywhere, from large cities to small communities.

Meet Our Travelers

Sarah Hallberg, PTA

Sarah’s home base is Omaha, but she’s worked across the West and Midwest, from California to Iowa, in stints ranging from 13 weeks up to eight months. We’ve been lucky to have her at Prowers Medical Center since May. Certified in stroke rehab and traveling with her two German shorthaired pointers, she enjoys getting acquainted with each new community and visiting family and friends who may live nearby. “I thoroughly enjoy being a Physical Therapist Assistant,” she said. “I enjoy engaging with people and aiding them in progressing toward their goals and increasing their independence with activities they enjoy.”