Future-Proof PT

And the active ingredients in PT often aren't even physical"We have the capacity to provide a level of care that nobody else in the healthcare system does. But we're being hamstrung by the payment models." — Dr. Trevor LentzDr. Trevor Lentz of Duke University on why patients write off physical therapy after one failed attempt, what the profession is actually selling, and the payment models keeping PT from delivering its real value.In this episode, Alex Bendersky and Dana Strauss sit down with Dr. Trevor Lentz, physical therapist, researcher, and faculty at Duke University, to unpack the structural and identity challenges facing the profession.The conversation moves across patient defection, language and labeling, payment reform, phenotyping, and what it would take to build longitudinal care models that finally pay therapists for outcomes rather than volume.What you'll hear:Why a single bad round of PT loses patients for life, and why the same isn't true for dentistry or primary care.The challenge of fostering critical thinking and comfort with uncertainty in clinical education.Trevor's research on removing copays, what it actually did to costs, and what payers misunderstand about long-term value.The case that PT's active ingredients aren't physical, and why the language we use, from "assistant" to "exercise" to "blown disc," is quietly damaging the profession.How Duke's Joint Health Program built a longitudinal care model before the payment model existed.Phenotyping, tiered care, and what it means for therapists to be the quarterback of a patient's care journey.The AIM-Back trial and the Pain Navigator program, recently published in JAMA Network Open, and what it teaches about scaling non-pharmacologic care.Find the complete transcript and outline here.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:23 Trevor's background and path to research03:00 Day-to-day at Duke03:54 Inductive vs. deductive reasoning in clinical practice05:39 The No-Copay Revolution study09:30 Horizontal vs. vertical value and the time-horizon problem12:44 Rethinking incentives and longitudinal care17:28 Why one bad PT experience ends the relationship forever20:53 The identity crisis and language problem26:57 Phenotyping and tiered, personalized care39:32 The Pain Navigator program and AIMBAC trial46:23 Navigators in the commercial space48:14 Closing: the whole-person argumentAbout the guest:Trevor Lentz, PT, PhD, MPH is an Associate Professor in Orthopaedic Surgery at Duke University and a licensed physical therapist. His work focuses on improving outcomes in musculoskeletal care by integrating behavioral and psychological factors, patient-reported outcomes, and real-world data into clinical decision-making. He leads and collaborates on pragmatic and hybrid effectiveness-implementation studies aimed at translating evidence into routine surgical and non-surgical musculoskeletal care.About the show: Future Proof PT is a podcast for physical therapists who want to think beyond the clinic, about policy, payment, identity, and the future of the profession.Hosts: Alex Bendersky and Dana StraussWant information on PT and OT reimbursement and opportunities in policy and advocacy? Read Dana's guest post series for OT Potential here: "How OTs and PTs Get Paid."Follow Dana Strauss on Linked In.Follow Alex Bendersky on Linked In.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT Linked In page.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT YouTube Channel.Subscribe to our newsletter and email list.Subscribe to our sister newsletter, Timeless Autonomy, Dana covers health policy insights and career growth tips for healthcare professionals and sends a weekly newsletter (nearly) every Sunday evening.

Why content follows culture, and practical actions clinic owners can implement within the next 3 months.Find the full episode transcript here.Posting more isn’t a growth strategy. Kylie Williams joins us to break down why “marketing to patients” on social media is getting harder, and why the clinics that win are the ones building culture that therapists actually want to be part of. We talk retention, autonomy, flexibility, benefits that matter, and a simple “side quest” approach to content that does not derail clinical excellence.Kylie is a healthcare professional with 8+ years of experience in physical therapy as a PTA. Now in a non-clinical role, she focuses on industry market analysis and storytelling to help private practices grow, adapt, and stay strong in a change healthcare landscape.Key Topics:-Social media's impact on private practice growth-Creating a strong clinic culture to reduce turnover-Innovative marketing strategies for healthcare providersChapters:00:00 Introduction to Kylie Williams01:36 The Importance of Culture in Physical Therapy05:05 Defining and Building a Positive Work Culture09:29 Targeting the Right Audience for Recruitment18:15 First Principles for Engaging New Clinicians23:07 The Impact of Social Media on Attention Spans23:40 Balancing Attention and Depth in Learning25:20 Navigating the Attention Economy26:10 Attracting Talent in a Digital Age27:04 Creating Value in Social Media Content28:27 The Challenge of Teaching Value in Social Media30:18 Connecting Social Media to Business Success32:12 Investing in Marketing Education for Therapists34:03 Finding Balance in Clinical and Promotional Roles37:15 The Role of Influencers in Modern Careers39:07 Empowering Clinicians to Pursue Side Projects40:47 The Importance of Agency in Clinical Roles42:36 Shifting Paradigms in Therapy Business Models44:40 Embracing Creativity and Optimism in TherapyWant information on PT and OT reimbursement and opportunities in policy and advocacy?Read Dana's guest post series for OT Potential here: "How OTs and PTs Get Paid."Follow Dana Strauss on Linked In.Follow Alex Bendersky on Linked In.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT Linked In page.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT YouTube Channel.Subscribe to our newsletter and email list for exclusive content.Subscribe to our sister newsletter, Timeless Autonomy, Dana covers health policy insights and career growth tips for healthcare professionals and sends a weekly newsletter every Sunday evening.

How RVUs (Not the Conversion Factor) Quietly Squeeze PT and OT and the Practical Blueprint to Shift From "Minutes" to ACO-Ready Value(read the full transcript here)In this episode, Alex and Dana discuss the CMMI ACCESS Model and what it could unlock for MSK care inside ACOs. They debate digital enablement reality and explain how aligned incentives can reshape referral pathways. They make a direct case the that the physical therapy profession's future depends on understanding payment mechanics.A core theme of this episode is that if PT stays positioned as specialty care based on "treatment minutes" as the primary service, it will keep losing in a system shifting relative value units (RVUs) toward primary care and behavioral health. If PT repositions around evaluation-driven expertise and ACO partnership, the profession can move from survival to influence.Here's what else you'll learn:Why the ACCESS Model payments are intentionally low, and why that is not the point.How ACOs think about total cost of care and why MSK spend is hard for primary care to manage.What “aligned incentives” can look like in a PCP + ACO + ACCESS org + PT partnership.Why engagement is often 3–5% for digital MSK programs, and what that means in context.A practical “go do this tomorrow” play for clinics: identify local ACO participants and pursue Preferred Provider relationships.The RVU basics most therapists never learned, and why it changes your advocacy strategy.Why PTs should prioritize evaluation, differential diagnosis, and plan-setting, with PTAs executing more follow-up care.How waitlists and access challenges become non-starters if PT wants to play in ACO-aligned care.A potential new productivity mindset: RVU-based expectations instead of “visits per week.”Want more information on PT and OT reimbursement and opportunities in policy and advocacy?Read Dana's guest post series for OT Potential here: "How OTs and PTs Get Paid."Follow Dana Strauss on Linked In.Follow Alex Bendersky on Linked In.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT Linked In page.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT YouTube Channel.Subscribe to our newsletter and email list for exclusive content.Subscribe to our sister newsletter, Timeless Autonomy, Dana covers health policy insights and career growth tips for healthcare professionals and sends a weekly newsletter every Sunday evening.

A reality-check on what works today, what is hype, and what must improve before digital-first MSK care earns trustWe sit down today with Sergei Polevikov (FixHealth.ai, Well.AI / Chart2Chart) for a reality-check conversation on what AI in healthcare actually is, where it genuinely helps today, and where the hype can cause harm.Sergei breaks down AI’s evolution from early machine learning to modern transformer models, then moves from definitions into the real stakes: transparency, validation, and workflow fit. Then we discuss with him the risk of overpromising in musculoskeletal care.The conversation zooms in on a massive, under-discussed shift: Medicare’s growing interest in digitally enabled care models that can substitute for traditional services, and what that could mean for PTs, patients, and outcomes. Sergei explains why digital-first triage is likely the future, while also outlining the biggest watch-outs right now, including hallucinations, automation bias, incomplete data, and the lack of real-time interoperability that healthcare needs most.We also cover a PT and OT relevant rubric for separating hype from real clinical value: does the tool augment PT judgment and continuity of care, or is it being positioned (and reimbursed) to substitute for PT, especially in emerging Medicare digital-first models?Takeaways from the episode should help outline what to pressure-test before adoption or referral: safety guardrails and hallucination risk, transparency and validation in real-world MSK populations, EHR/workflow fit (not “more clicks”), and whether the vendor’s incentives align with outcomes vs. billing.Clinicians are concerned about AI "replacing clinicians tomorrow," but that's not reality and it distracts from the real issue. The biggest threat is poorly governed digital care pathways that can bypass PT and OT, fragment care, and dilute instead of improve accountability unless the evidence and oversight are truly there.Follow Dana Strauss on Linked In.Follow Alex Bendersky on Linked In.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT Linked In page.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT YouTube Channel.Subscribe to our newsletter and email list for exclusive content.

We are tackling physical therapy's brand crisis head-on. From pop culture portrayals (yes, we're talking about that "Land Man" stripper scene) to CMS policy that treats PT as "substitute spend" for MSK digital health solutions, the evidence is clear: we have a public perception problem.We explore why professional identity matters, how specialization creates internal dissonance, and why evidence-based practice sometimes conflicts with how we want to be perceived. We talk about the importance of communicating our actual skill set, and why we need to stop being terrible at telling people what we do and why it matters.Why this matters right now:Value-based care and episode/bundled payment models are framed as the future: fewer visits, higher impact per encounter. But remaining the PT who serves as the primary provider for managing their patients' longitudinal spend. In those models, PTs “win” by preventing downstream costs (imaging, opioids, injections, surgery, prolonged disability). But that only works if we can show it.Key topics: professional branding, healthcare policy, payment models, public perception, advocacy, and the path forward for elevating the profession.Mentioned in the episode:Nassim Taleb | "Skin in the Game" Hidden Asymmetries in Daily LifeEpisode Quality Improvement Plan (EQIP)ACCESS ModelACCESS Technical FAQs

Explore the intersection of evidence-based practice, healthcare economics, and pseudoscience in rehab, plus practical strategies for clinicians who want to do better without going brokeIs your physical therapy practice built on evidence, or just what pays? In this episode, we sit down with Paul Ingraham, science writer and founder of painscience.com, to challenge the line between evidence-based practice and pseudoscience in rehab. We explore why manual therapy needs a serious reframe, how economic pressures push clinicians toward uncertain treatments, and whether honest patient communication can coexist with running a profitable practice. Paul doesn't hold back: he argues that most PTs operate in a gray zone where research is weak, outcomes are unpredictable, and informed consent is virtually nonexistent. You might not agree with everything he says—but you'll hopefully question what you do and why you do it. Maybe you'll look into the scientific evidence behind your current common care plans.Topics include:Evidence-based practice vs. pseudoscience: where's the line? Why manual therapy should be reframed as an experimental intervention in many casesThe role of informed consent in uncertain treatments (not unlike what we hope physicians do when prescribing a treatment plan whose results are uncertain)How value-based care incentives better outcomes and discourages pseudoscienceThe economics of PT: balancing integrity with incomeWhy strength training and exercise therapy are still key ingredients in PT treatment plansTeaching intellectual humility and critical thinking in healthcare educationPractical strategies for clinicians who want to practice honestly without going brokePaul Ingraham is a Vancouver science writer and a former Registered Massage Therapist, a profession he left in 2010 over concerns about its pseudoscientific nonsense. Since then, he has been publishing PainScience.com full-time, a website about the science of pain and injury, known for its rich footnotes and anti-quackery activism. The site offers hundreds of articles and ten books, all based on a huge bibliography. Paul was an active amateur athlete for decades, especially in ultimate (the Frisbee sport), but has now retired from competitive intensity and “just” does a lot of running and cycling, despite grappling with his own chronic pain/illness problems since 2015.Here's where you can find Paul! https://www.painscience.com/subscribe [free newsletter]https://www.painscience.com/ebookshttps://www.facebook.com/painsciencehttps://www.threads.net/@painscihttps://bsky.app/profile/painsci.bsky.socialhttps://x.com/painsciSign up for our newsletter, where Alex shares weekly literature summaries and links relevant to therapy.Sign up for our sister publication, authored by Dana, Timeless Autonomy. Dana covers weekly health policy insights and tips on career growth for clinicians.Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

How crazy is it that proven interventions in healthcare take so long to spread, even when they show clear economic and clinical benefits?Innovation in healthcare is painfully difficult to get into widespread adoption, even after proven successful.This episode discusses the results of a nine year-old study at Geisinger Health System on a PT-First "bundle" that's just as relevant today. But the disturbing part about it is it's not common to find a structure like this one, where a shift in incentives changed the care pathway for patients.Here are major takeaways from the episode:PT-First Models Are Economically Proven: When properly structured with the right incentives, physical therapy as a first-line intervention for musculoskeletal conditions reduces costs and improves outcomes. This has been demonstrated at scale.Risk Stratification Is Your Friend: Implementing tools that identify high-risk patients (for joint replacement, high utilization, poor psychosocial factors) helps you target PT-first interventions where they'll have the most impact.Understand the Regulatory Landscape: Know the difference between what commercial plans can do versus Medicare constraints. This helps you understand why some innovations work in certain settings but not others, and where to focus your advocacy efforts. And don't forget to explore CMS Innovation Center Models! They are a key opportunity for Medicare to offer flexibilities outside of statute and PTs and OTs can 100% benefit from this!Patient Incentives Matter as Much as Provider Incentives: Waiving or reducing copays for PT-first approaches changes patient behavior. Consider how your practice can work with payers to create these incentives.Think Beyond Traditional Treatment: The food-as-medicine example challenges PTs to consider all drivers of health outcomes, not just manual therapy and exercise. What are the non-medical factors affecting your patients' success?Health Systems with Their Own Plans Are Innovation Leaders: These integrated systems have the most flexibility and motivation to try new models. Consider targeting these organizations for partnerships or employment.The "Why Not Everywhere?" Question: Just because something works doesn't mean it spreads quickly in healthcare. Understanding the barriers to adoption (regulatory constraints, organizational inertia, population mix) helps you be more strategic about implementing change.Keep It Simple: As Alex notes - "kiss things" "(keep it simple, stupid"). The most successful innovations have clear, straightforward incentive structures that are easy for patients and providers to understand and act on.Find the article we discuss in this episode on a PT-First payment model here.Sign up for our newsletter, where Alex shares weekly literature summaries and links relevant to therapy.Sign up for our sister publication, authored by Dana, Timeless Autonomy. Dana covers weekly health policy insights and tips on career growth for clinicians.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelWe also discussed in this episode the "Geisinger Fresh Food Farmacy" research. The pilot evaluated whether providing free, healthy food for the entire household of a food-insecure adult with Type 2 diabetes improves health outcomes and reduces healthcare use. In the podcast, Dana described what she recalled from memory. The study is found here but we can't find access to the article unlocked. Asking "Claude.AI," it said in this observational pilot study with 37 participants showed a 2.1% average drop in HbA1c levels and an 80% reduction in healthcare costs (from $240,000 to $48,000 per member per year). Additional research has recently been published put we can't locate it unlocked online. It looks like funding was from the 2018 Farm Bill.

Check out the You Tube version of the podcast here.In this episode, Dana and Alex review the research articles Alex shared with Future Proof PT newsletter subscribers on January 4th, 2025, exploring what these studies reveal about healthcare transformation and what PTs can learn from them.They dive into the 4% screening tool study that dramatically improved outcomes by simply asking patients about their needs—a small intervention that created massive value. This leads to a bigger discussion: why are PTs starving on a shrinking fee-for-service diet when alternative models exist? The answer isn't that value-based care doesn't work—it's that most clinicians haven't tested it yet.We explore Richard Feynman's principles of honest self-evaluation and scientific integrity, applying them to healthcare's reluctance to experiment. Alex shares that he recently reread The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and that the story's message resonated with him differently this time around. He focuses on a key moment in the book where the shepherd's father gives him money to pursue his journey—not because the father expects his son to find treasure, but because the father himself never took that journey and wants something better for his son.Alex connects this to his own mindset as a parent: he wants his children to have opportunities and experiences he didn't have. This parallels the healthcare discussion because leaders and early adopters in value-based care are essentially doing the same thing—investing in a journey they may not fully benefit from themselves, but paving the way for the next generation of clinicians.The core insight Alex draws is that the treasure in The Alchemist wasn't the gold the shepherd was seeking, but the transformation and self-discovery he experienced along the way. Similarly, PTs who experiment with value-based care aren't just chasing financial models—they're undergoing professional transformation that makes them more valuable, regardless of whether any single model succeeds.This reframing positions the journey itself as the reward, and encourages clinicians to stop waiting for value-based care to be "proven" before they engage. Like the shepherd's father investing in his son's journey, today's leaders are investing in the profession's future.Other key points include: why you need a lottery ticket to win (you have to participate to benefit), how to A-B test your way into value-based care leadership, why leadership starts with one person taking action, and how systems thinking can help PTs break free from fee-for-service heuristics. Stop waiting for permission. Start leading from your clinic. The R&D phase of healthcare needs you.Key Topics in Episode 23:Reviewing research articles from Future Proof PT newsletter (Jan 4, 2025)The 4% screening tool study and its implications for value creationWhy "it doesn't work" is invalid if you never tested itThe sheep analogy: surviving vs. thriving in healthcareRichard Feynman's lesson on honest self-evaluation and scientific integrityA-B testing your way into value-based care leadershipWhy small experiments and lottery tickets matter in healthcare transformationHow the journey of experimentation IS the treasure (lessons from The Alchemist)Systems thinking and recognizing our own fallibility in healthcare decision-making"The Alchemist"*"Thinking Fast and Slow"*"The Almanac of Naval Ravikant"*Alex's summary and takeaways of the five research articles we discuss on the episode.Accountable Health Communities Model Findings at a Glance*affiliate link

Fee-for-service PT reimbursement isn't viable. It's just math. In this episode, we bring our second physician guest to the Future Proof PT studio to explain. For Episode 22, we are joined by sports medicine surgeon and Protera Health co-founder Dr. Eric Makhni, MD, MBA, who also explains what physical therapists can do about our "math problem."We explore the economics of MSK care, who actually bears financial risk in healthcare, why your clinical reasoning matters more than your manual therapy skills, and how digital health (when done right) can extend your reach without replacing your value. Eric shares stories from 20 years studying and practicing value-based care in orthopedics, including how patient-reported outcome measures changed a surgical decision in real-time and why the 2020 telehealth pivot separated true clinical experts from customer service providers.We hope this conversation challenges how you think about your career, your compensation, and your profession's future.Key Topics:PTs' effectiveness in treating MSK conditionsThe "Healthcare Factory" metaphor for fee-for-service physical therapyUsing patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) as a clinical GPS tool for shared decision-making, not just complianceThe 2020 telehealth pivot that separated clinical experts from customer service providers in digital healthThe difference between tech companies and true clinical integration in digital MSK care platformsThe shift from "hands to brains" - why clinical reasoning and movement expertise is more valuable than manual techniquesUnderstanding who bears financial risk in healthcare and why PTs should align with and target employers directlyHow to pitch directly to employers instead of chasing insurance panelsPatient case study as an example of a functional use of PROMs: How patient-reported outcomes changed a surgical decision and prevented an unnecessary procedureMore about our guest, Dr. Eric Mahkni, MD, MBA:Dr. Eric Makhni is a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon and Associate Professor at Henry Ford Health, with nearly 20 years experience in value-based orthopedic care. He has taken that experience and co-founded Protera Health, which helps health plans improve quality and costs of MSK care for their populations.He is also the team physician for the Detroit Lions.We asked him what PTs, and other healthcare professionals need to hear. Here's what he shared:"Lot of organizations doing MSK VBC that are welcoming PT's with open arms. Really great opportunity to shift gears from the clinic grind to thinking - and practicing - more holistically!"Here's why he thinks this episode is important to tune into:"Digital MSK is one of the hottest spaces for health tech. With so many players in the space, it's important to learn how to untangle the web and see how each solution fits in the spectrum of delivery options." Here's a "hot take" from Dr. Makhni:"Health plan leaders have very little to lose by trying out new innovation solutions, provided these solutions use high quality clinical delivery models and pass the "sniff test." There is much more to gain by trying to improve quality of care as opposed to being scared that it might not work out."Resources:Protera Health - proterahealth.comHenry Ford Health - henryford.comDr. Eric Makhni on LinkedInPlease subscribe to the Future Proof PT podcast and share it with a friend!Here's the YouTube version of Episode 22

How to Benefit from Value-Based Care Strategies While Treating in Fee-For-Service"Why should I care about value-based care TODAY?"If you're not in a risk contract and your clinic runs on fee-for-service, this question probably hits home. The answer? You don't need a value-based contract to win with value-based thinking.Alex and Dana welcome Cody Lee and Jonathan Smith, two physical therapists who've turned podcast concepts into practice - building provider relationships, growing referrals, and demonstrating value before entering any formal risk arrangements. They share the "Accept, Change, or Leave" decision framework that ended their career stagnation, how understanding ACO language became their referral secret weapon, and why the lack of a playbook is actually your competitive advantage.This is the bridge between healthcare theory and clinic reality - no jargon, no fluff, just practitioners sharing what actually works when you're trying to build something better than the status quo.For clinic owners frustrated with traditional practice models, new grads looking for alternative paths, and any PT or OT who's ever thought "there has to be a better way" - this conversation delivers immediate, actionable insights you can use Monday morning.Key Takeaways:Start without a playbook. There's no perfect formula, so learn from others, be curious, and experiment with applying conceptsSpeak the same language. Understand the goals of ACOs or other VBC models and the participating providers' needs to help you become their trusted partnerShort-term benefits. Even without the VBC payment model in place for a therapy department or practice, you can increase fee-for-service revenue by becoming the preferred referral destination because you create value through trust, access, consistency, and strong communication and collaborationSales is not a dirty word. Build relationships directly rather than relying only on salespeople. Authentic connections drive referral behavior change. Successful salespeople are masterful at authentic relationship-buildingUpstream PT and OT care reduces downstream costs. More PT and primary care engagement with patients naturally reduces the use of ERs, unnecessary imaging, and specialist utilizationGrowth enables opportunity. Increased volume allows you to hire team members you want to work with and create more positionsChange is curvilinear. Success won't be immediate or linear. Persistence leads to exponential growth over time.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelSubscribe to Timeless Autonomy for health policy news and insights distilled for industry professionals. Written by Dana Strauss, PT, DPT

Alex and Dana met on LinkedIn, started a podcast, and only met in person in October of 2025. They use their milestone 20th episode to issue an urgent call: 270,000 physical therapists must each become agents of change, starting today. They cover these topics and more:-The economic reality is unsustainable. Therapists graduate with up to $200K debt (three-quarters of medical school) to earn a $120K salary ceiling. Compare that to nurse practitioners makin $150K with two years of training. -The fee-for-service model traps therapy professionals. Many now leave between years 3-5, before their investment even pays off. But everything needed to transform exists right now. -Physical therapists aren't physician extenders—they're doctoring professionals with their own licensed and supportive extenders (PTAs, health coaches, PT aides, etc.). The solution mirrors how surgeons often collaborate with physician associates: PTs should evaluate, plan care, and intervene when expertise is required, while delegating execution to skilled and/or trained team members. -Time directly providing one-on-one patient care doesn't equal quality. -High-quality clinicians redirect inappropriate referrals instead of accepting them like "manna from heaven." -Setting realistic patient expectations based on prognosis and comorbidities IS the professional expertise that defines doctoring professionals. Yet the profession never fully claimed the direct access promise.-Alex's recent experience with his father's hospitalization exposed for him healthcare's fractured reality: disciplines that don't communicate, 10+ daily errors, and systems where only patients with physician quarterbacks receive optimal care. Despite seamless technology enabling collaboration, hospitals remain unsafe places.-Fee-for-service creates no incentive for safety or communication—but value-based models like TEAM (hitting 25% of hospitals in January) are shifting the landscape by making hospitals accountable for 30-day spending and outcomes. Therapists--this creates massive opportunity. For example, therapists can help ensure anyone who may be able to return directly home actually CAN go home, and can advocate for that on behalf of patients in collaborating with the multidisciplinary team.-Complaints aren't actionable—they're just "the what." Action emerges when individuals realize they can move the needle in their own clinical settings, with their own patients, and with their own teams. -Value-based care is the path to sustainable, higher PT and OT incomes in clinical roles. -What Alex is excited about for the APTA PPS event this week!And more! Join them for Episode 20. Like it? Please give them a thumbs up and subscribe!Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Why your best play is calling the shots, not running them allAlex and I recently talked about the physical therapist income floor and ceiling. And in this episode, we talk with Dr. Marc Gruner, who offers a framework for a solution to that seemingly impenetrable ceiling.Here's the punchline. The income ceiling in PT isn't about reimbursement rates. It's about your practice model.Dr. Gruner created the RTM codes, which are the first new codes for PT in 20 years. Now we can absolutely make the strong argument that the PT billing codes don't adequately reimburse therapists for the value we create, and that the income ceiling should not be tens of thousands below providers who don't have doctoral degrees as the required minimum educational level. But in this episode, Dr. Gruner explains why team-based care and value-based arrangements are the only path to sustainable income growth while providing access to care to our communities. We talk about RTM in this episode, and about how RTM wasn't designed as simply another billing code. It's infrastructure for the glide path to value-based care for physical therapists.So tune in to hear much more from Dr. Gruner, a true physician champion for the physical therapy profession. Learn how to stop top playing every position and start calling the plays.RTM Strategic Deep Dive: Subscribe below for the full article on how remote therapeutic monitoring serves as a facilitator for value-based success, and why we make the argument that it is crucial for therapists to think of it that way. When you subscribe, you have access to the full archive of newsletter articles and to exclusive access to a supplemental set of resources that will hit your inbox after you subscribe (for free!).Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Drowning in student debt? Feeling undervalued as a PT? Here's why: You're trapped between an artificial floor and a glass ceiling. The floor? PT school costs more than an MBA at MIT—that's your barrier to entry. The ceiling? The AMA's physician-dominated board literally decides what you're worth. And between those two forces, you're stuck. Today we break down the economic trap keeping PTs fragmented, underpaid, and powerless—and what you can actually do about it. You're not alone, and the problem runs way deeper than you may think.What You'll Learn:Why PTs earn less than other providers for the same skills - Discover how the American Medical Association controls your reimbursement rates The hidden economic barriers keeping PTs fragmented - Learn why our 400,000-strong profession has less influence than professionals with a smaller number of providersWhy your PT school education failed you - The critical finance and regulatory knowledge gaps that leave new grads unprepared (and how to fix them yourself)The private practice opportunity - Understanding debt structures, consulting fees, and why smaller clinics actually have MORE freedom to innovateYour path out of fee-for-service dependence - Practical strategies for recouping your investment beyond insurance reimbursementWhy certifications actually DO matter (despite what cynical colleagues say) - How specialization opens doors beyond your clinic jobOur guest today is Jon Lee, PT, DPT, MBA, the co-founder of Pickle, former pro sports PT, and someone who's navigated from clinical practice to Oxford MBA to vaccine development to healthcare techIt's a conversation about the structural economic problems facing PTs—and actionable knowledge you won't get in school. You will enjoy how the three of us challenge each other throughout this hour-long conversation. We keep it real and it's ultimately optimistic.This episode is great for new grads struggling with debt, mid-career PTs feeling stuck, clinic owners questioning their business model, and anyone wondering if they made a mistake choosing their healthcare profession. Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

What happens when the only physical therapist to serve two U.S. Presidents shares his unfiltered blueprint for transforming PT into a primary care powerhouse?Dr. Drew Contreras, PT, DPT, SCS—Lieutenant Colonel (retired), former White House Medical Unit PT to Presidents Obama and Biden, and current APTA Vice President of Strategic Affairs—delivers a masterclass in professional evolution that will fundamentally shift how you view your career trajectory.This is surgical precision strategy from someone who's operated at the highest levels of American healthcare.Dr. Contreras dismantles the "comfort crisis" plaguing PT, where professionals complain about constraints while avoiding the uncomfortable work of actual transformation. His brings up a great point, too: venture capitalists are flooding PT because they see massive opportunity that many therapists are too comfortable to seize.The Analogy-Based Insights You'll Gain:The Tree-Cutting Analogy: How value-based care mirrors service industries you already understand—and why PTs must stop being "branch pickers" and become strategic plannersThe Netflix Model of Healthcare: Why flexible, on-demand PT delivery (including treating astronauts in space) represents the future of patient engagementFrom Skilled Laborer to Expert Consultant: The mindset shift from counting clamshells to providing high-level clinical consultation that commands premium pricingThe Spider-Man Principle: Why ordering imaging and labs comes with great responsibility—and how embracing this elevates PT to true doctoring statusStrategic Intelligence from the Inside:Contreras reveals how political and healthcare leadership actually views PT's potential, sharing insights from Pentagon health clinics to White House medical operations. His perspective on "old guard versus new guard" leadership offers a roadmap for navigating professional transition without burning bridges.The Uncomfortable Truth: Healthcare's shift is here and we already risk being late to the game. PTs equipped with "coloring-book anatomy knowledge" (it will make sense when you listen to the episode) successfully operated in primary care roles decades ago. Today's DPT graduates possess exponentially superior tools and knowledge, yet many lack the courage to step into their full scope of practice. And the "old guard" has to step up and embrace this too, even if it means adding to your knowledge base.This episode will arm you with the strategic framework to thrive in healthcare's inevitable transformation.For therapists ready to evolve beyond traditional treatment rooms into primary care leadership roles, this conversation provides the roadmap. For those comfortable with the status quo, it serves as a wake-up call to the professional reckoning already underway.Read Dr. Contreras' bio hereSubscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Explorers, Innovators, and the Future of Therapy PracticeWhat distinguishes an explorer from a maintainer in the therapy profession? Why are outside disruptors capturing market share while traditional practices struggle? How can clinicians leverage cutting-edge research on mitochondrial DNA and movement disorders to revolutionize treatment approaches? We tackle these questions and more in a dialogue that bridges clinical excellence with business innovation.Alex offers a provocative parable about buying lottery tickets that perfectly captures our profession's hesitation to proactively engage with healthcare transformation. "We're losing workforce," he warns, "but we're still failing to see that we need to go out and look into these risk-based contracts, at least explore, at least understand what they are and how to operationalize them."We examine the stark contrast between traditional care models and patient-centered approaches that leverage technology. Is it better to "hold a patient's hand" through dozens of visits, or transition to guided self-management after fewer sessions? This question gets to the heart of therapy's value proposition in an evolving healthcare ecosystem.The irony doesn't escape us: therapists expertly help patients recognize and build upon their strengths, yet we collectively struggle to do the same for our profession. The gap between the actual value therapists provide and our ability to communicate that value creates the perfect opportunity for disruption – either from outside forces or, ideally, from innovative thinkers within.External disruptors aren't succeeding because they provide better clinical care. They're succeeding because they've packaged therapy expertise in ways that solve specific problems for stakeholders, speaking the language of value, efficiency, and outcomes that resonates with payers and health systems.This conversation isn't meant to be comfortable – it's meant to be catalyzing. The explorer's mindset we advocate requires questioning established practices, reimagining care delivery, and having the courage to venture into unfamiliar territory.As Alex puts it: "I'm optimistic because I think the better days are ahead, because that's my nature, but I'm also realistic that it may take a catastrophe for those models to be absorbed. We just want to be on a good hill when the catastrophe hits."Are you ready to climb that hill? To join us as explorers charting new territories in healthcare transformation? To balance rigorous clinical standards with business innovation?Listen now to discover how adopting an explorer's mindset could transform your practice and ensure our profession remains central to healthcare's future. Because the future of therapy will be written by those willing to explore it – and we believe you have an important chapter to contribute.TakeawaysThe explorer's mindset encourages seeking new horizons in therapy.Therapists must adapt to changing healthcare delivery models.Curiosity and innovation are essential for professional growth.Understanding value-based care is crucial for therapists.Therapists need to articulate their value to stakeholders.Research consumption strategies can enhance clinical reasoning.Collaboration with other healthcare providers is vital.Growth can be achieved through efficiency and subtraction.Therapists should prepare for risk-based contracts.The future of therapy depends on adaptability and exploration.#TherapyLeadership #HealthcareInnovation #PhysicalTherapy #ValueBasedCare #PracticeManagementLink to the transcript here.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelCheck out our friend and colleague's *course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT*affiliate link

Episode Summary:In the latest episode of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky, along with special guest Jerry Durham, tackle the critical crossroads facing physical therapy as a profession. They challenge listeners to question whether they're functioning as true healthcare professionals or merely "operators" in a broken system.The trio discusses how healthcare is rapidly transforming around us, including recent proposed policy changes in the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule that could significantly impact physical therapists. While time-based providers like primary care physicians are seeing increases of 5-9%, independent PTs face a -1% adjustment. The trio make the case that this should be a wake-up call for the profession.Key topics covered include:The value of hands-on patient relationships in an AI-driven healthcare landscapeWhy team-based care is essential for survival in evolving payment modelsThe importance of understanding the broader healthcare ecosystem beyond PTStrategies for demonstrating value to referring physicians and payersEmbracing the shift to outpatient and in-home careThis conversation serves as both a warning and a call to action for physical therapists to "look up" from their treatment tables, redefine their professional identity, and secure their place in the healthcare of tomorrow.Whether you're a clinic owner, practicing PT, or student, or in a non-clinical role, this episode delivers uncomfortable truths alongside actionable insights that could transform your approach to practice. You won’t want to miss it.Link to the episode transcript here.Subscribe to the Future Proof PT newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelCheck out our friend and colleague's *course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPT*affiliate link

Dana and Alex explore the Therapy Value Quotient, an objective framework for measuring clinical impact that goes beyond subjective reasoning. Learn a practical algorithm that factors in functional improvement, patient complexity, care intensity, and cost—plus why establishing clear therapy prognoses is essential for professional survival.Key topics covered in this episode: objective clinical measures, therapy prognosis, value-based care, capitation, long-term patient relationships, and preparing for AI-driven healthcare analytics.Essential listening for therapists ready to prove their value in measurable ways while maintaining meaningful patient connections.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelSign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Check out our friend and colleague's course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPTSponsored by Saatva Mattresses: use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time!Future Proof PT helps physical therapists navigate the changing healthcare landscape and build sustainable, value-driven practices.

Physical Therapists, listen up! "Make America Healthy Again," or MAHA, is a chance to improve the professional identify of PTs regardless of politics! It's a chance to embrace and highlight the profession and its doctoral status and to position its reputation as long-term partners in patients'/the population's MSK health as opposed to merely providers of episodic care. PTs can and should be the "quarterbacks" of MSK care. That will mean eliminating some of our vocabulary and leaning into other expressions. MAHA isn't just a chance for the profession's perception. It's an opportunity to attract well-deserved reimbursement improvements. Here's what you'll learn when you tune in:How government healthcare initiatives create opportunities for physical therapists to advance the profession, and why you should embrace the positive of new positioning, regardless of political affiliations or biasesWhy PTs should position themselves as "quarterbacks" of musculoskeletal careThe importance of using doctoral titles, professional language, and of obtaining your tDPT if you graduated PT school prior to the DPT (like Dana!)Why you should remove "discharge" from your clinical vocabularyPotential challenges for the profession: reimbursement, resource limitations, and outcomes trackingWe make the case for PTs to step up as lifetime partners in MSK health and ditch the notion of being solely providers of episodic care. And we encourage you to embrace the top of scope positioning of PTs and argue it's a "must-do" to secure a future we are all proud of.Enjoy the conversation and the practical insights on how to position yourself, your practice, and your profession for future success in a changing healthcare landscape. Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelSign up for our newsletter and receive exclusive resources that grow with every episode!Check out our friend and colleague's course on AI for PTs (and so many others!) by Cody Lee, PT, DPTSponsored by Saatva Mattresses: use this link for 15% off Saatva mattresses or tell anyone at a Saatva show room that Dana Strauss, PT, DPT sent you. This offer is stackable with any other active offer Saatva offers at the time!

Ready to revolutionize your PT career? Think of it like Wayne Gretzky's famous quote - skate to where the puck is going, not where it's been. In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, having a game plan for your career as part of the PT profession (clinical, non-clinical, or both) isn't just nice-to-have, it's essential for survival.The signs of change are everywhere if you know where to look. Want the inside scoop? Follow the money and the power players. Watch what policymakers and their advisors are saying and doing, and keep your eyes on where big investors are placing their bets - that's key to reading the proverbial tea leaves.Let's talk about our profession's journey. Physical therapy has come a long way in fighting for autonomy - you know, breaking free from needing that doctor's prescription to treat patients. But while we were focused on that battle, we might have missed some existential challenges.Take the fee-for-service system, for instance. It's like a bad relationship - it's not just hurting us, it's impacting how other providers coordinate and collaborate with us. making sure patients get to us. Even worse? It's pushed us to focus on visit counts rather than what really matters: individualized treatment plans, proper dosing, and patient outcomes.This affects how everyone sees PT - from insurance companies to doctors to patients themselves. Many view therapy as this huge time commitment, rather than seeing its true value. Not great, right?In this episode, Alex and I are talking about this. We're tackling Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) and its connection to the recently update Innovation Center Strategy - stuff that could completely reshape your practice. This isn't just about boring billing codes - it's about positioning yourself at the cutting edge of healthcare.We are sharing helpful insights about healthcare tech, new payment models, and what it means for your future. Plus, you won't want to miss Alex's brilliant "train model" that perfectly shows how digital and in-person care can work together seamlessly.We're also sharing what the CMS Innovation Center leadership said in their blog and in recent public appearances about their vision for healthcare's future. Every week, we update our Resources Database, which is available to all newsletter subscribers. Not a subscriber yet? Sign up here! It's free and we send valuable resources right to your inbox every week.Chapters00:00 The Future of Care Delivery Models06:00 The Importance of Quality Data in EMR Systems08:35 Navigating Regulatory Changes in Healthcare10:46 The Impact of Technology on Patient Care13:41 Conclusion and Future Directions18:37 Innovative Models in Medicare Services20:42 The Role of Data in Patient Care22:33 Future of Therapy: Embracing Change25:43 Case Studies: Remote Therapeutic Monitoring28:14 Valuing Preventive Care in Therapy32:08 Understanding Episode Groupers36:10 Collaboration Across Disciplines40:13 Advocacy and Access to Care

In Episode 11 of Future-Proof PT, we're joined again by Cody Lee, a dynamic early-career PT who's revolutionizing physical therapy practice in Alabama. Get ready for a thought-provoking journey into the intersection of traditional PT and cutting-edge technology. Cody shares his firsthand experience fighting for direct access at the state level while pioneering AI integration in clinical settings - two movements that are reshaping our profession's future.We tackle burning questions about autonomous practice and , dive deep into why functional measurements matter in assessing patient risk, and explore how PTs can leverage artificial intelligence without losing the human touch that makes our profession special. Whether you're a clinical practitioner or working away from the bedside, this episode offers fresh perspectives on where physical therapy is headed.Don't miss Cody's game-changing insights and a sneak peek at his upcoming AI for PT course that promises to transform how we approach patient care. This is more than just another healthcare tech discussion - it's a roadmap for staying relevant in an evolving healthcare landscape!Get his free download of 10 High Impact AI Prompts for PTs here!Check out his course AI for PTs here!Some Key Takeaways from the Episode:1. Direct access and primary care PT may not be one and the same. Professional vs. Personal scope of practice are important to distinguish.2. AI integration in physical therapy practice can enhance evidence-based decision-making while maintaining personal touch3. The APTA's role should extend beyond clinical practice support to include non-clinical professionals shaping healthcare itself4. Risk stratification models should incorporate functional metrics for comprehensive patient care5. Professional growth opportunities exist beyond traditional clinical roles in physical therapy6. Technology adoption in practice can streamline documentation and improve treatment planning7. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is essential for advancing the profession8. Continuing education in emerging technologies is crucial for career advancement9. The DPT role in autonomous practice continues to evolve with changing healthcare landscapes10. Prevention-focused care models are gaining importance in physical therapy practice11. Understanding healthcare policy impacts clinical and non-clinical practice decisions12. Professional advocacy requires engagement at multiple levels 13. Evidence-based practice can be enhanced through technological tools and resources14. The future of PT includes diverse career paths beyond traditional clinical settings, and we should support that15. Healthcare reimbursement models are evolving to include preventative care16. PTs can influence professional development through technology adoption17. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for long-term career success in PTChapters:00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode04:05 Advocacy and Direct Access in Physical Therapy06:11 Challenges and Perspectives on Direct Access09:02 The Role of Education and Certification in Direct Access11:14 AI in Clinical Practice: Enhancing Decision-Making17:41 The Future of AI and Data Utilization in Physical Therapy25:56 Optimizing Workforce Encounters26:30 Standardizing Data for Improvement28:31 Building Feedback Loops in Clinics29:54 Utilizing EMR Data for Risk Assessment30:36 The Importance of Functional Status in Risk Stratification32:56 Advocating for Inclusion in APTA34:52 The Role of Non-Clinical Professionals36:00 Looking Ahead: Future of Physical TherapyDon't forget to subscribe to the podcast, and thank you for being a part of this community!

Join Dana and Alex as they sit down with rising PT star Cody Lee, PT, DPT, to explore how the next generation of physical therapists is reshaping healthcare delivery. In this engaging conversation, Cody shares his journey as an early-career clinician who's already making waves in the industry with his innovative approach to value-based care.Key highlights from this episode include:• How Cody is implementing value-based care principles in his daily practice • The importance of servant leadership in healthcare • Real insights into building strong professional communities and mentorship networks • A candid discussion about the challenges facing new PTs, including the critical issue of education costs versus earning potential • Vision for the future of physical therapy and strategies for keeping talented clinicians in the fieldWhether you're a seasoned PT professional or just starting your career, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a sustainable and fulfilling practice. Cody's fresh outlook, combined with Alex and Dana's experienced insights, creates a compelling dialogue about where the profession is headed and how we can work together to improve patient care while supporting clinician growth.Don't miss this inspiring conversation that proves leadership and innovation can come at any stage of your career. This episode will leave you feeling optimistic about the future of physical therapy and equipped with practical ideas for elevating your own practice.Do you subscribe to our newsletter? If not, and If you'd like to receive a subscribers-only Resources Database that we add to after every episode, you can subscribe here.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Future Proof PT Podcast and Guest Introduction03:15 Cody Lee's Background and Early Career Insights06:06 Value-Based Care in Practice: Patient Stories09:07 Building Referral Networks in Healthcare12:04 Involvement with Alabama Physical Therapy Association15:02 Challenges in the Physical Therapy Profession18:20 Productivity Pressure in Physical Therapy21:12 Leveraging Technology in Patient Care28:20 Enhancing Clinical Reasoning with AI30:23 The Importance of Human Expertise in Therapy32:24 Building Professional Networks and Asking for Help36:50 Patient-Centered Care and Communication39:01 The Philosophy of Servant Leadership42:44 Supporting Young Clinicians in Their Careers47:28 Navigating Financial Challenges in Physical TherapyWe hope you follow us and enjoy the episode!

For Episode Nine, we welcome back guest Ben Galin, PT, DPT, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of physical and occupational therapy, using the role of PTAs and COTAs as a springboard for broader industry discussion.The conversation begins with examining how PTAs and COTAs are utilized in various healthcare settings, challenging the cookie-cutter approach to their deployment. The discussion reveals that PTAs often demonstrate exceptional career mobility, with many advancing into management positions and finding success in digital health platforms.A significant portion delves into critical policy issues affecting the profession, including:The need to reclassify PTs as "practitioners" alongside other healthcare providers like dietitians and behavioral health specialistsThe importance of shifting focus from fighting Medicare cuts to pursuing more achievable policy goals that could fundamentally change the professionThe complexities of state-level versus federal-level advocacy, highlighting how state-level changes can often be achieved more quickly and effectivelyThe hosts and guest examine how digital health is reshaping traditional supervision ratios and practice models, while also addressing the profession's ongoing challenges with direct access and professional autonomy.This episode provides valuable insights for physical therapy professionals at all levels, offering a strategic vision for advancing the profession through targeted policy changes and adaptation to emerging healthcare delivery models.Chapters00:00 The Role of PTAs and COTAs in Therapy06:08 Challenges in Career Advancement for Assistants10:42 Operational Models and Supervision in Therapy16:11 State Regulations and the Future of PTAs22:19 Advocacy and Legislative Challenges in Healthcare27:59 Understanding the Role of Professional Associations29:50 Navigating Changes in Healthcare Policy32:26 The Importance of Practitioner Recognition35:22 Addressing Friction Points in Healthcare39:04 The Need for Change in Perception and Policy41:56 Identifying Actionable Wins for the ProfessionSubscribe to our newsletter and receive an exclusive resources page that we add to every week!

In Episode 8 of Future Proof PT, hosts Dana Strauss and Alex Bendersky engage in a deep discussion with veteran physical therapist Ben Galin about the critical evolution of physical therapy practice. With 25 years of diverse clinical experience, Galin shares valuable insights on the transition from traditional fee-for-service models to value-based care.The conversation delves into several key themes:The "51% substance" principle - emphasizing the importance of delivering meaningful, evidence-based care while acknowledging the role of patient engagement techniquesHow this ratio often becomes distorted in traditional fee-for-service models, potentially leading to only 25% substantive careThe challenge of maintaining clinical value while meeting patient expectationsTreatment modalities and their true valueCritical examination of common interventions like cupping, needling, and manual therapyThe role of placebo effects and their ethical implementation in treatmentBreaking away from historical expectations of passive modalitiesDigital health transformationBenefits of removing non-substantive elements in virtual care deliveryFocus on evidence-based therapeutic exercise and educationCollaborative care modelHorizontal integration with other healthcare providersImportance of timely referrals and professional networksRecognition of treatment limitations and appropriate escalation of careThe episode concludes with a compelling vision for the future of physical therapy, emphasizing the need for evidence-based practice, strategic collaboration, and a commitment to meaningful patient outcomes rather than traditional treatment metrics.Subscribe to our newsletter here, and receive a link to resources that we update weekly after each episode!

In this episode of Future Proof PT, we dive deep into two game-changing models of care provision that could reshape physical therapy practice: First, we explore the TEAM model (Transforming Episode Accountability Model), a Medicare acute episodes of care affecting about 740 hospitals nationwide. Learn how this model creates opportunities for outpatient PT (and OT) practices and why rethinking post-acute care transitions could lead to better patient outcomes.Then, we uncover the proven success of PTs as primary care providers (PCPs) in the military model - a system that's been delivering results since 1974! Discover the four key domains that validate PT effectiveness as PCPs:Clinical effectiveness in musculoskeletal careOutstanding safety profileCost effectivenessReduced downstream healthcare utilizationFor clinicians feeling burnt out: This episode offers a fresh perspective on elevating your practice and embracing new opportunities in team-based care.Don't miss this crucial conversation about the future of our profession and how we can deliver more value to our healthcare system!Subscribe to our newsletter and receive our Resources Database. This page is updated weekly with resources from the latest episode and is only available to subscribers!

Summary:In this episode of the Future Proof PT podcast, Dana and Alex delve into the economic implications of healthcare with a focus on musculoskeletal disorders. They discuss the concepts of QALY and DALY, emphasizing the importance of understanding these metrics in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. The hosts highlight the value of physical therapy as an investment in health, the impact of productivity loss due to days away from work, and the need for therapists to embrace technology. They also explore the distinction between patient needs and wants, the importance of patient autonomy, and the role of therapists in the healthcare ecosystem. They conclude with a call to action for therapists to advocate for their profession and build trust within the healthcare community.Takeaways:Physical therapist care is an investment in overall health.Understanding QALY and DALY is crucial for evaluating interventions.The economic burden of musculoskeletal disorders is significant.Days away from work reflects productivity loss and impacts healthcare economics.Therapists need to embrace technology to enhance patient care.Therapists need to move beyond filling prescriptions and establish themselves as primary care providers for musculoskeletal healthThere is a need to differentiate between patient needs and wants in therapy.Building trust in the healthcare ecosystem is essential for therapists.Agency in physical therapy is vital for professional satisfaction.The future of physical therapy lies in value-based care models.Therapists must advocate for their profession by better quantifying and communicating its value to improve public perception, including that of payers, at-risk providers, and healthcare systems.Subscribe for free to Future Proof PT and receive a resource database that we add to every week, as well as a direct link to the full episode resources, as well as the YouTube version of the podcast.Please follow and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast apps and YouTube. It helps those algorithms show our content to others who can benefit.Plus, we are starting a movement! The more we can reach as we build this in public, the better.Thank you for listening!Alex and Dana

Below by Notion AI from the transcript:A detailed discussion exploring the complex dynamics of value-based care in the musculoskeletal health sector. The conversation covers patient-reported outcome measures, healthcare system challenges, and the future of healthcare delivery in the United States.Takeaways from Riverside AI:Takeaways and Chapters by Riverside AIThe role of clinicians is multifaceted and influenced by various factors.Transitioning to value-based care requires a shift in mindset and practice.Markers of success in healthcare are often arbitrary and need reevaluation.Clarity and alignment in professional roles are crucial for effective care delivery.Autonomy in clinical practice is essential for personal and professional growth.Critical thinking is vital for therapists to navigate complex patient needs.Adaptability is key to thriving in value-based care models.Patient engagement is a critical component of successful healthcare delivery.Accountability in healthcare extends beyond individual patient interactions.Quality metrics and patient outcomes are essential for evaluating care effectiveness.

AI Show Notes by Riverside FM:SummaryIn this episode, Dana and Alex discuss the complexities of budget resolutions, government spending, and their implications for healthcare, particularly telehealth and physical therapy. They explore the challenges posed by the physician fee schedule, the underutilization of physical therapy, and the importance of alternative payment models in transitioning to value-based care. The conversation emphasizes the need for quality metrics and the potential for a paradigm shift in healthcare funding.TakeawaysBudget resolutions involve complex negotiations and cuts.Telehealth expansion is dependent on congressional action.The physician fee schedule and impacts on therapist reimbursementPhysical therapy is underutilized in treating musculoskeletal issues.Correct dosing in therapy is crucialAlternative payment models can provide financial stability for providers.Value-based care links reimbursement to patient outcomes.Quality and outcomes are essential in value-based care models.Government actions can directly affect healthcare delivery.The future of healthcare may require significant restructuring.Chapters00:00 Navigating Congressional Changes01:56 Understanding Alternative Payment Models04:00 The Impact of Budget Resolutions on Healthcare06:19 Telehealth and Its Future08:24 The Physician Fee Schedule and Its Implications10:02 The Role of Physical Therapy in Primary Care12:03 Challenges in Establishing Optimal Therapy Practices14:40 The Future of Physical Therapy in Healthcare17:56 Understanding CMS and Conversion Factor Cuts20:18 The Budget Dilemma in Healthcare22:49 Reimagining the Healthcare System25:28 Alternative Payment Models Explained33:44 The Future of Value-Based Care

Sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive, subscriber-only access to our Resources Database!Please subscribe to our YouTube channel and if you like an episode, giving it a thumbs up helps us reach more people--PTs, OTs and others in healthcare like our physician colleagues with whom we hope to build teams and collaborate more closely as partners in the care of our patients.Finally, please consider subscribing to this podcast wherever you like to listen. And the best compliment you could give us is sharing the podcast with your friends and colleagues in healthcare. Spread the word to other healthcare professionals in your network!Riverside AI was used to generate the below:SummaryIn this episode of Future Proof PT, Dana and Alex delve into the complexities of the physical therapy referral continuum, discussing the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare supply chain. They emphasize the importance of understanding the roles of physical therapists, the need for primary care generalists as well as specialization, and the significance of building trust with primary care providers. The conversation also highlights the shift towards value-based care and the potential for physical therapists to engage in the Medicare Shared Savings Programs, ultimately advocating for better patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.TakeawaysThe physical therapy referral continuum is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.Understanding the referral process and new opportunities can enhance care delivery.Physical therapists must recognize their limitations and refer patients appropriately.Building trust with primary care providers is essential for effective referrals.Specialization within physical therapy can improve patient care.Value-based care models reward effective management of conditions.Engaging in Medicare Shared Savings Programs can benefit physical therapists and patients alike.Collaboration among healthcare providers leads to better patient outcomes.Healthcare Value Week offers valuable insights into value-based care.Knowledge sharing and adaptation are key to improving physical therapy practices.Sound Bites"We need to advocate for our patients' needs.""We need a matchmaker to connect providers.""Knowledge is out there; we just need to find it."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Future Proof PT Podcast00:50 Exploring the Physical Therapy Supply Chain04:17 Understanding Referral Continuity and Challenges08:42 The Role of Physical Therapists in Patient Care11:22 Navigating the Referral Process and Patient Advocacy15:35 Building Collaborative Care Networks19:46 Value-Based Care and Its Implications23:44 Conclusion and Future Directions25:57 Building Trust in Healthcare Relationships27:59 The Importance of Patient Engagement30:52 The Future of Primary Care33:25 Creating a Community Resource35:29 Navigating Medicare Shared Savings Programs38:32 The Role of Matchmakers in Healthcare43:49 Learning from Supply Chain Efficiency47:47 Healthcare Value Week and Community Engagement

Subscribe to our newsletter and your welcome email will include a subscribers-only link to a growing Resources Database for you to bookmark!Courtesy of Riverside AI:SummaryIn this episode of the Future Proof PT podcast, Dana and Alex discuss insights from the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) for physical therapists. They explore the essence of physical therapy, the role of technology, the importance of the therapeutic alliance, and the shift towards value-based care. The conversation also delves into the generational divide within the profession, the challenges of career choices, and the need for physical therapists to position themselves within the primary care framework. The episode concludes with reflections on professional growth and the importance of strategic career planning.Takeaways-The essence of physical therapy lies in patient-centered care.-Technology should complement, not replace, the therapeutic alliance.-The therapeutic alliance is a key predictor of successful outcomes.-Value-based care models are becoming increasingly important in physical therapy.-There is a significant tension between the old guard and new guard in the profession.-Physical therapists need to embrace their role in primary care to enhance their value.-Career choices should be made with a long-term strategy in mind.-Saying no to certain opportunities can be as important as saying yes.-Consistency in care delivery leads to better outcomes.-Understanding the economic landscape of healthcare is crucial for therapists. Sound Bites"We are the fly in the urinal of healthcare.""It's a long game, not a short game.""Saying no is as important as saying yes."Chapters00:00 Introduction to CSM Insights02:14 The Essence of Physical Therapy04:58 Understanding Computer Vision Technology07:50 The Role of Technology in Patient Engagement10:10 The Therapeutic Alliance in Physical Therapy12:49 Value-Based Care and Its Implications15:28 Challenges in Measuring Therapy Outcomes18:07 The Future of Physical Therapy Practice29:51 Transforming Healthcare: The Role of Primary Care34:19 Innovative Care Models: Lessons from the VA System41:22 Old Guard vs. New Guard: Navigating Change in PT49:53 The Future of Physical Therapy: Retaining Talent and Strategy

Note to listeners: We are building this podcast in public. We uploaded the raw episode and copied and pasted Riverside's AI show notes.Thank you for giving our podcast a try!In this inaugural podcast episode, hosts Alex Bendersky and Dana Strauss discuss the importance of value-based care in physical therapy and healthcare at large. They explore the concept of value, its implications for patient care, and the need for therapists to understand the healthcare ecosystem. The conversation delves into the pillars of value-based care, including patient-centeredness, adherence to clinical guidelines, measurement of patient outcomes, and cost-effectiveness. The hosts emphasize the importance of evidence-based practice and the need for therapists to advocate for their value in the healthcare system.Sound Bites"You are worth what you think you're worth""Cost effectiveness is always relative"Subscribe to Timeless Autonomy for free to have episodes sent to your inbox.Article discussed in episodes: Archives of Physiotherapy: Providing Value-Based Care at PhysiotherapistBook Alex recommended in the episode: Naked Economics: Addressing the Dismal Science