Physical Therapy expands in new area

The physical therapy department at Jewell County Hospital was moved into a new home inside of the newly constructed area of the hospital in late October.

The new therapy department features a waiting room and reception area, private office for the therapists, three large private treatment rooms and a gym area which is tucked inside two walls of large windows which provide for a great work out atmosphere. Patients and staff both agree the view these windows provide makes the process of rehab just a little more tolerable.

With the move into the larger space, it became possible for the department to add updated and new equipment which benefit the patients. A new addition was a high-low automatic oversized mat table allowing patients more room for their rehab program, while giving the therapists the ability to get on the table also with patients. This helps when they need more hands-on assistance. The department was able to add a treadmill, elliptical and a set of parallel bars.

With the new department and equipment, the staff continues to look for ways to expand treatment options for patients in all settings: outpatient, acute care, skilled swing bed, and intermediate swing bed. The current staff includes Tammy Emmot, MSPT, Nickia Vance, CPTA, and Alisha Reynolds, receptionist-physical therapy aide. The department also has a PRN speech therapist, Kristi Arasmith, M.S. CCC-SLP who is available for outpatient and inpatient care. Occupational therapy is provided by contract staff as available.

The staff appreciates the community for continued support by sharing positive experiences with others which brings new people into the department. They also appreciate the loyal patients who return when they need assistance to improve their function again.