Perspectives Spring 2015

PERSPECTIVES • SPRING 2015 47 treatment within a short timeframe. This model is unlike any other clin- ical setting that PTs traditionally practice in, which definitely influ- ences and impacts course content, making sure that the students are prepared to be able to practice in a setting such as this.” Joann Gallichio, D.Sc., PT, NCS, assistant professor, the newest member of the faculty team, described how “Having just moved to the Tampa Bay area, the JCHC has provided me with the opportunity to keep my hands in patient care. It also reminds me of how great our profession is be- cause we have the opportunity to work with people who truly appre- ciate our volunteer time and bene- fit so much from our care.” According to Dr. Cherry, “The strength of this partnership is that it increases the presence of NSU in the Tampa community, which helps not only the PT Program but all the NSU programs in Tampa. It gives us another clinical site for the stu- dents to practice the skills they’ve learned, and it allows the faculty members and students to make an impact on those who are not as for- tunate and need some help. Robin Galley, D.P.T., PT, OCS, director of clinical education for the Hybrid D.P.T. Program, agrees, stating that “Volunteering in the community is encouraged throughout our curriculum. Having the opportunity to volun- teer at the JCHC provides faculty members an opportunity to lead by example. Working with the pa- tients at the JCHC also stimulates our growth as clinicians and strengthens our background in cul- tural competence.” Dr. Galley also appreciates the learning opportunities the JCHC provides for students. “The stu- dents are able to practice their clin- ical skills under the direct supervi- sion of a licensed therapist/faculty member in this unique setting,” she explained. “Additionally, stu- dents are challenged to think out- side the box regarding resources and home programs for these pa- tients, so they come to appreciate the luxuries of other settings such as exercise equipment.” How has the collaboration be- tween NSU and the JCHC im- pacted the clinic and its patients? Auldeen Sampson, a JCHC patient, comes for PT sessions once or twice a month after suffering several strokes. “Having therapy taught me to walk a lot better,” she admitted. “I love working with the students, and they seem to get a lot out of working with people like me.” The clinic’s executive director, Kelly Bell, sees the benefits as well. “Our patients are struggling to make ends meet, and oftentimes their work is very physical in na- ture. When our patients can’t work because they are in pain, they suffer grave consequences like not being able to put food on the table or pay bills. For many JCHC patients, physical therapy is the answer and keeps them productive and working members of our community,” she said. “The PT program also offers an alternative to pain management or narcotic medications, which are not available at the JCHC. The in- structors and students are so caring and are making great progress with our patients, which is why they leave their PT sessions with smiles on their faces and hope for stronger, pain-free days.” Overall, this type of collabora- tive community partnership is what makes Nova Southeastern University a unique place to learn and work. For more information about the Judeo Christian Health Clinic, please visit its Web site at http://www.judeochristianhealthclinic.org/index. PT-2 Natasha Brenner (left) instructs a patient in shoulder retraction exercises using an exercise band as part of his home exercise program. Aura Arevalo (right) assists in translating her instructions and feedback to the patient.