For Skilled Nursing Facility Therapists our jobs have been turned upside down over the last decade. No one factor has been worse for Therapy professions than the spread of contract companies across the US. Built on the foundation of cutting costs, these companies would come into a facility to cut wages, and benefits to Therapists; increase productivity expectations to unrealistic levels, and fire Therapists at a drop of a hat.
Today we speak to Liza Marie Norton COTA, and Tiffany Moniz MA, SLP about this extremely important topic. Founders of the Facebook group: USA Based OT, PT, SLP Therapist United For Change; Liza and Tiffany are building a case against the negligent companies who are destroying our ability to provide appropriate care to our patients. Read more about these two amazing trailblazers below, and enjoy the video:
If you are a Therapist who is burned out, and you just want to once again provide quality care to their patients. Join the group on Facebook and increase the voice toward change.
Meet Today’s Guests:
Liza Marie Norton COTA
Liza Marie Norton, a licensed occupational therapy assistant with 5 years of hands-on experience. Specializing in (SNFs) and driven by a heartfelt passion for long-term/memory care units. Liza obtained her associate of science in OT from Keiser University Tampa in March of 2017. She was inspired by her mother’s 18-year tenure as a (CNA) in Florida nursing homes. This family connection adds a deeply rooted dedication to serving and enhancing the lives of individuals in long-term care settings. She’s ventured beyond SNFs, gaining experience in pediatrics, and contributing to outpatient/school settings.
Additionally, she served as a Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Clinical Assessor for CareBridge, leveraging her OTA experience to conduct objective assessments and determine appropriate level of supports and services for program participants. Currently, Liza contributes to the Senior Living Industry while also working Per Diem at a skilled nursing facility (SNF). Liza has a heartfelt commitment to making a positive impact in the field of occupational therapy.
Tiffany Moniz MA, SLP
Tiffany Moniz has 20 years of experience working in healthcare. She is a licensed speech-language pathologist in Pennsylvania. Tiffany earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and another bachelor’s in communication disorders. She went on to obtain her master’s degree from WCU. With diverse practicum experiences, she has honed her skills in acute care, rehabilitation centers, SNFs, HH, and outpatient.
As a dedicated professional, wife, and mother of two, she founded her Med B mobile outpatient clinic in 2020, Speech Therapy Solutions. She was able to regain her clinical and financial autonomy while having the freedom to provide quality care and much more time to advocate for the profession in her free time.
What are some of the struggles that PT/OT/SLP’s face when working for a contract therapy company:
Physical therapists play a crucial role in the rehabilitation and well-being of residents in nursing homes. Their expertise in restoring mobility, improving strength, and enhancing quality of life is invaluable, particularly in environments where residents face various health challenges. However, when these therapists work in nursing homes managed by external contract companies, they often encounter unique struggles that can impact their ability to provide optimal care.
1. Limited Resources and Support
One of the primary challenges faced by physical therapists in nursing homes operated by external contract companies is the limitation of resources and support. These facilities may prioritize cost-cutting measures, leading to insufficient staffing levels, outdated equipment, and inadequate access to necessary supplies. As a result, physical therapists may find themselves stretched thin, trying to deliver quality care with limited resources.
2. High Workload and Productivity Demands
In nursing homes managed by contract companies, there is often a strong emphasis on productivity and meeting specific performance metrics. Physical therapists may face pressure to see a high volume of patients within limited time frames, compromising the quality and individualized nature of care. Balancing the need for efficiency with the desire to provide comprehensive rehabilitation can be a significant challenge for these professionals.
3. Lack of Continuity of Care
Another struggle for physical therapists in nursing homes operated by external contract companies is the lack of continuity of care. Staff turnover and frequent changes in management can disrupt the therapeutic relationship between therapists and residents, hindering progress and treatment outcomes. Additionally, inconsistent communication among healthcare team members may lead to gaps in care coordination, making it difficult for therapists to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services.
4. Limited Autonomy and Decision-Making Authority
External contract companies often implement standardized protocols and policies across multiple facilities, limiting the autonomy and decision-making authority of physical therapists. These professionals may find themselves constrained by rigid guidelines that do not always align with the individual needs and preferences of residents. This lack of flexibility can impede the therapist’s ability to tailor treatment plans effectively and address specific functional goals.
5. Ethical Dilemmas and Professional Integrity
Navigating ethical dilemmas and upholding professional integrity can be particularly challenging for physical therapists working in nursing homes managed by external contract companies. Pressures to prioritize financial interests over patient care, such as overutilization of services or discharge planning driven by reimbursement concerns, may conflict with the therapist’s ethical obligations to act in the best interest of their clients. Striking a balance between business objectives and ethical practice standards requires careful navigation and advocacy on behalf of residents.
In conclusion, physical therapists working in nursing homes operated by external contract companies face a myriad of challenges. These can impact the quality and delivery of rehabilitation services. From resource constraints to productivity demands and ethical dilemmas. These professionals must navigate a complex landscape to provide optimal care to residents. Addressing these struggles requires collaboration among stakeholders, advocacy for policy changes, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional practice.
Also, check out rocktherecovery.com on Facebook and join for more upcoming podcasts and articles!
Thank you, Liza and Tiffany, for speaking out about such an important topic in our field. Your group is playing a crucial role in our supporting our fellow Therapists.