Talk Rehab

Weesie Walker and Gerry Dickerson from NRRTS join Greg Packer and Wayne Grau from NCART to talk about CRT Advocacy. Join us for a great conversation.This episode is brought to you by the Premier Sponsors of the September 14 CRT Virtual Congressional Fly-In:Alliance RehabNational Seating & MobilityNumotionQuantumReliable MedicalRiftonVisit CRTAccess.com to learn about the Fly-In and register, for free, to help raise awareness of Complex Rehab Technology.

Tom Borcherding, industry veteran and CRT advocate, recently accepted the business development responsibility at LUCI. Today, Tom discusses how manufacturers can help raise awareness of CRT.This episode is brought to you by the Premier Sponsors of the September 14 CRT Virtual Congressional Fly-In:Alliance RehabNational Seating & MobilityNumotionQuantumReliable MedicalRiftonVisit CRTAccess.com to learn about the Fly-In and register, for free, to help raise awareness of Complex Rehab Technology.

Katy Stevens, recently named 2021 HME Woman of the Year during a virtual presentation hosted by VGM, has a keen eye for doing great things for people that need Complex Rehab Technology (CRT). I talked with Katy about how providers and Rehab Technology Suppliers can help raise awareness of CRT to provide greater access and independence for the people that need it.This episode is brought to you by the Premier Sponsors of the September 14 CRT Virtual Congressional Fly-In:Alliance RehabNational Seating & MobilityNumotionQuantumReliable MedicalRiftonVisit CRTAccess.com to learn about the Fly-In and register, for free, to help raise awareness of Complex Rehab Technology.

Jean L. Minkel is a physical therapist and master clinician internationally recognized for her work in assistive technology.  She is an  an educator and consultant to every facet of the assistive technology and seating & mobility world. Jean has authored and edited a couple great works including a video series entitled "Spending or Investing - Funding Assistive Technology"... a terrific series designed to provide support for smoothing-out the ridiculously complex funding process for Assistive Technology.Today Jean and I discuss the need for CRT advocacy and awareness building and the role clinicians can play.This episode is brought to you by the Premier Sponsors of the September 14 CRT Virtual Congressional Fly-In:Alliance RehabNational Seating & MobilityNumotionQuantumReliable MedicalRiftonVisit CRTAccess.com to learn about the Fly-In and register, for free, to help raise awareness of Complex Rehab Technology.

Jenny Siegle is a full-time producer for Altitude Sports in Denver, Colorado. Jenny also works as a replay operator for the Colorado Rockies during baseball season and in 2021 she joined the Denver Broncos Public Relations game day staff.She is an amazing advocate for Complex Rehab Technology  and a role model for all of us who want to make a difference. Join us and listen as Jenny tells her story.This episode is brought to you by the Premier Sponsors of the September 14 CRT Virtual Congressional Fly-In:Alliance RehabNational Seating & MobilityNumotionQuantumReliable MedicalRiftonVisit CRTAccess.com to learn about the Fly-In and register, for free, to help raise awareness of Complex Rehab Technology.

It took a couple years, but Laurie finally agreed to be  a guest on the podcast, and I'm very happy... even excitedLaurie is Executive Editor of Mobility Management magazine and sees a lot, hears a lot, knows everybody, and shares the passion - definitely has the Song In Her Heart - for Complex Rehab Technology and the amazing people that make it all happen.She's been smack dab in the middle of the seating & mobility industry for 20 years and her insights, her perspective, her background, her story will leave you wanting more.But don't take my word for it... listen-up!

Dr. Mark Schmeler is a busy guy but he took the time to talk with me about the 2022 ISS and the DRRP Program: Research on Healthcare Policy and Disability... Assessment and Investigation of New Coverage Policies for Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) within a Contemporary Accountable Care Environment. I know a lot of us are up in the air about whether or not there will be a face-to-face ISS, so please join me and listen while Mark explains ISS status and gives us a progress update on the the 5 year long DRRP project.And Happy New Year!

Brooke Ellison, PhD is an Associate Professor of health policy and medical ethics at Stony Brook University. Following a car accident that left her paralyzed from the neck down and dependent on a ventilator at age eleven, Dr. Ellison graduated from Harvard University in 2000... and hasn't stopped since! Her accomplishments, her background, her insights make her one of the most interesting and truly visionary people I've ever met. Visit Brooke's website - https://www.brookeellison.com/ - to learn all that Brooke can do to help us make the world a better place. "In life, we are taught to look both ways, as if there were only two..." Brooke EllisonPlease join us for a very enlightened and enlightening conversation. 

Linda Norton is the manager of learning and development for Motion, a leading mobility and accessibility solutions provider serving clients of all ages in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Additionally, she is on faculty at the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course and Western University's Advanced Health Care Practice–Wound Healing program.Linda serves on the board for NRRTS Canada and the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel, an interprofessional representation of sectors of the health care community to address the issue of pressure injuries in the Canadian population.And, with all that, she made time to speak with me. Join us for a great episode while we Talk Rehab.

Have you ever wanted to get in front of your legislators and tell them what you think? Let them know what you think they should be doing?Me Too! And now is your chance. NCART and NRRTS are hosting a Virtual CRT Congressional Fly-In to do just that... to raise awareness for the plights and issues surrounding access to Complex Rehab Technology (CRT).Join me and listen to this episode with Don Clayback and Mickae Lee from NCART and Weesie Walker, ATP/SMS from NRRTS as they explain what it is and how it works.

Tamara became an occupational therapist more than 40 years ago, graduating with a B.A. in OT from St. Catherine University. In 1981 she earned an advanced Masters of Science in Rehabilitation Medicine, Early Intervention Emphasis from the University of Washington. She and her family moved to Missoula in 1983, where her Montana career began by work at the Child Development Center for ten years. Over time her interest in and passion for 24 hour posture care and management developed and grew. Tamara is a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional/Seating and Mobility Specialist, and completed Advanced Postural Care certificates through the Open College Network, West Midlands (UK). She directs two nonprofits based in Missoula, Eleanore's Project and Posture 24/7 – focusing internationally and domestically on her special interests. 

Dr. Viswanathan has her eyes, ears, and sensors on the future as well as on her vision to improve the quality of life through the development of assistive technologies. Her company, Braze Mobility, produces Blind Spot Sensor Systems for people that use wheelchairs. Author of several publications, Pooja completed her PhD in Computer Science (Assistive Technology) at the University of British Columbia.Dr. Viswanathan spent some time with me talking about Braze Mobility and how she got into the field of smart wheelchair technologies. Please join us for a very interesting episode.

Occupational Therapist for over 30 years, President of Therapy Now, Author of More Than 4 Wheels, and member of NRRTS Canadian Advisory Committee, Sheila Buck took time to share her story for us.Please listen while Sheila paints a picture of her passion for providing freedom and independence through Complex Rehab Technology, Seating & Mobility, and Assistive technology. 

Today's episode features Barbara Crane, Physical Therapist, PhD in Rehabilitation Science, and Associate Professor at Plymouth State University in Plymouth New Hampshire. Barbara has over 30 years of experience in the CRT world, she’s a member of the Clinician Task Force, involved with RESNA and the APTA, and teaches an academic program that prepares DPT graduates.Please join me for a delightful and informative conversation as Dr. Crane talks about her background, her research, her interest in dynamic seating and cushion interfacing, her instrument for measuring comfort, and just helping people move.

Madonna Long has been a force for advocacy and independence since her accident in 1981. Her work is broad and deep and is all pointed toward making the world a better place for people with disabilities... with a passion for seating & mobility and Complex Rehab Technology (CRT). Please join me and listen to Madonna as she casts her rays of bright light on the seating & mobility landscape.

A leader to CRT Suppliers everywhere, Gerry Dickerson is responsible for providing mobility and access to many, many people that need it. An RTS in the truest, deepest sense, Gerry talks about his journey from the beginning of an industry and profession to now... and all things in between. With a great sense of humor, passion, and dedication, Gerry continues to lead and represent the amazing people that provide seating, mobility and accessibility.Please join me for an inspiring conversation.

Emma M. Smith was trained as an OT before returning to school where she received her PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences. She is a prolific researcher making an impact on the study of emerging technologies centered around assistive technologies. Her desire to contribute her skills on a global level led her to become involved in the World Health Organization's Global Cooperative on Assistive Technology (GATE) initiative.With a broad and very deep list of affiliations and contributions - and a very busy schedule - Dr. Smith joined me for a discussion about her background and her views on the world of assistive technology.

Nicole LaBerge, PT, ATP, Researcher discusses her journey as a therapist and CRT specialist. In addition to her very active practice, she is wrapping up a research project focused on one of her passions, the benefits of standing. Nicole recently accepted a position as an Executive Board Member of the Clinician Task Force. Please join me and listen as Nicole tells her story.

Thanks for your support throughout 2020. Even though it's been a really crappy year, some really great things have happened. Please join me for a quick thank you episode coupled with a mention of a few of the noteworthy 2020 accomplishments.

NRRTS is on the Move! Three members of the NRRTS crew discuss how they support, develop, and work toward the advancement of individuals who provide complex rehab technology. Join me as Amy Odom, Annette Hodges, and Weesie Walker talk about their new relationship with CADA, NRRTS' use of virtual collaboration, Unite4CRT, a new digital platform, monthly webinars, and a brand new CRT Supplier Certificate Program. Is That All?This awesome episode is brought to you in part by Quantum Rehab... Stretto, Backup Camera, iLevel, and more.

Karen Roy, Brand Ambassador for Numotion, 2019 Ms. Wheelchair America, CRT Activist, Social Worker, Teacher, Trainer... tells an inspiring story of change, strength, hope, optimism, and support.Please join me and listen to Karen tell it like it is.Many thanks to Quantum Rehab for helping bring this episode to you.

Jean L. Minkel is a physical therapist and master clinician internationally recognized for her work in assistive technology. In addition to being an educator and consultant to every facet of the assistive technology and seating & mobility world, Jean has authored and edited a couple great works including a video series entitled "Spending or Investing - Funding Assistive Technology"... a terrific series designed to provide support for smoothing-out the ridiculously complex funding process for Assistive Technology.A RESNA Fellow and Sam McFarland Mentor Award winner, Jean was kind enough to spend time with me the other day. Please join me for a very enjoyable, educational, and enlightening conversation.

Katherine M. Stevens - aka Katie - shares her story of growth, accomplishments, and her belief in the world of seating & mobility. In her current position as Vice President of Operations for Reliable Medical in the great (and cold) state of Minnesota, Katie is positioned to do great things for the people who need complex rehab technology and for the people that provide it.Please listen with me to Katie's tory.

Dr. Cole Galloway is a very interesting person with a huge story to tell.Please join me as Cole shares his insight into his background in rehabilitation, neuroscience, child development, human-machine interaction, his Go-Baby-Go movement and a lesson in the role of social mobility.

Dr. Mark Schmeler, the Grand Academician of Rehab, talks about the long overdue assessment and investigation of innovative policy related to CRT in a contemporary healthcare payment model. Please join me and listen while Mark explains what that means, discusses the 5 year long project, and talks about the DRRP grant that the University of Pittsburgh and a few other partner institutions received to fund the project.

NCART's Don Clayback, Executive Director, and Mickae Lee, Director of Advocacy and Communication, bring us up-to-date on industry progress across a wide variety of topics. Don't be left behind! Get all the news from NCART.US and from these two very active people.Listen and Learn...

Well-known within the seating & mobility industry, Susan Johnson Taylor requires little to no Introduction. Her passion, her background, and her expertise speak for themselves.Occupational Therapist, Presenter, Author, Trainer, Mobility Expert, Consultant, Advisor, Organizer, Advocate... these are just a few of the words that can be used to describe Susan's indomitable force in pursuit of independence, freedom, and mobility for the people that need it.Please join me while Susan shares some of her history and perspectives.

Do you ever wish there is more than one Claudia?! In this episode, reimbursement guru Claudia Amortegui tells her story and helps us understand the importance of accurate funding intelligence. The Orion Group, under Claudia's leadership, specializes in taking the guesswork out of reimbursement for CRT and making accurate information available to suppliers, clinicians, providers, manufacturers, and other CRT stakeholders..Please join me and listen while Claudia talks about how she became an expert in reimbursement and doing the right things for the people that need it.

Truly a global resource, Ginny Paleg has a lot to say about a lot of things. With deep knowledge in the areas of Pediatrics, Cerebral Palsy, Early Intervention, Assistive Technology, Physical Therapy and a gazillion other things, Ginny was able to straighten me out in a number of areas and teach me a lot in a short period of time.Please join me, learn and listen to this very enjoyable and enlightening conversation I had with Ginny on Aug 5, 2020.

Barry Dean, CEO, tells the story of his new company and product, LUCI. LUCI adds smart technology to an existing power wheelchair for stability, security, and connectivity. Driven by the song in his heart, Barry (CEO) and his brother Jered (CTO) and Peter Knapp (COO) developed LUCI to provide greater independence, stability, comfort, and safety for his daughter... and they're making it available to everyone sitting in a power chair!Join me for a great conversation with Barry.

Hymie Pogir has made an indelible mark on the Seating & Mobility industry and for all the people who are sitting in wheelchairs today. It is with great appreciation and admiration that I am able to share this conversation that I had with Hymie. I can't say enough good things... so I won't try.Please join me and listen to one of the true Complex Rehab Technologists.

Mark Sullivan, industry veteran, visionary, and Champion of Independence, shares his background and his perspective on an industry that he helped create.With over 36 years focused on crafting solutions for people that need Complex Rehab Technology, Mark was integral to Invacare’s rehab business and products for 27 years where he rose to Global VP of Power Wheelchairs and Seating. Along the way, he traveled the world pioneering seating and mobility in less resourced countries. Mark leads Sullivan Consulting providing product development, marketing, sales management, and strategic planning and is currently providing New product development for Convaid.Mark authored a couple books, including COMPLEX -(equired reading in my opinion) which can be viewed and downloaded from https://TalkRehab.Show/Complex or from the resources page on the NRRTS website (https://NRRTS.org)

Cathy Carver talks about her experiences at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, Spain Rehabilitation Center and Clinician Task Force. Cathy is a Clinician, Teacher, Lecturer, and founder of 'Come Roll with Me'... an awareness-building organization where young kids learn first-hand about disabilities. She has also worked as an Alabama Medicaid medical reviewer for custom pediatric and adult wheelchairs and seating.Listen as Cathy provides a rich conversation about her life as a deep influencer and all-around giant in the world of Seating & Mobility.

Pam Glazener, OTR, ATP shares her knowledge, her insight, and her background managing and caring for patients with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). Please join us for an educational and motivational conversation about this diabolical diagnosis and Pam’s very upbeat vision of the lives of people with ALS.

Harold Moses, MD, specializing in Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, Neurology, and Neurosciences, clinician and researcher at the Vanderbilt MS Center in Nashville. Join us as Dr. Moses kicks-off our series on the medical health issues that result in the need for a manual or power wheelchair. His insights and experience treating and researching people with MS make for a very interesting and informative discussion.

Mala Aaronson, OT, ATP, CRTS, one of the top ATPs in the country, shares her journey, her clinical leadership, her dedication, and explains her mission to provide seating & mobility to the people that need it… and to teach and inspire those who provide it.

Powerhouse PT Erin Michael has been passionate about physical therapy from an early age. Specializing in spinal cord injury rehab, Erin heads the seating clinic, and is the manager of Patient Advocacy and Special Programs at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. She is an executive member of the Clinicians Task Force and a representative for the United Spinal Association.Please join me today for a conversation with and glimpse into the mind of Erin Michael.

Melanie Parker is busy! Not only is she a practicing physical therapist and seating and mobility specialist, she is CEO of Confident Living Home Therapy Consulting and is creating a new, non-profit foundation, dedicated to whole family dynamics. Her inspiration is contagious.Please listen as Melanie shares her vision and her consumer-focused concepts.

As Executive Director, Weesie Walker oversees the operation of the National Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (NRRTS), including the review of applications, developing education programs, and marketing the organization. Weesie's deep background, experience, deliberation, and dedication to the cause are apparent as soon as she begins speaking. I had a great conversation with Weesie about life in the world of Seating & Mobility. Please join us and listen as Weesie shares her background and her views on industry topics.

Kelly Mason has been affiliated with the Seating & Mobility Industry for almost 20 years. She recently took a position at NuProdx as Director of National Accounts. Listen as Kelly talks about her background, her new position, and the exciting bath product concepts from NuProdx.

Michelle Lange spent some time sharing her background, her thoughts, and her awesome view into the world of Assistive Technology. This program is about 45 minutes long, and it's chocked full of great stuff. Michelle is a first-class presenter, super busy - as you know - and we're very lucky to have this time with her today.Please listen, enjoy, and share.

When you look-up "Necessity is the Mother of Invention", you'll probably see Bruce Hammer's picture.Bruce, a former professional motorcycle racer, was ranked second in the United States when his life took an unexpected turn in 1982. Bruce crashed during a race and became a quadriplegic after breaking his neck at the sixth/seventh cervical vertebra. Bruce, who also had a background in architecture, eventually began designing and creating products that would help him travel more independently. Inspired by the freedom that the productsprovided, Bruce founded Nuprodx in 1998 to offer solutions to others.Listen while Bruce tells a great story and lends his perspective on the future of rehab.

Doug Munsey founded Ki Mobility in 2005 and positioned the company squarely in the lightweight manual wheelchair arena. Since 2005, Doug has grown the company steadily and passionately for the people that need mobility and for the people that provide it.Join us as we discuss the industry, the company, the players, and the future.

In 1992 Mike Ballard created National Seating & Mobility (NSM) and built a lasting company with the Song in its Heart. Mike was instrumental in putting the seating & mobility industry on the right path with a passion for providing products and services to the people that need it. NSM became the haven for everyone that shared the passion and soon grew to national prominence as the premier provider with Mike at the helm.Listen to this Part 1 episode... to Mike as he covers a lot of ground in his inimitable story telling style.

Mark has been a leader and advocate for the seating and mobility community for as long as I've known him. His enlightened, first-hand perspective is refreshing and candidly objective. Please listen to Mark discuss the world of Rehab and his take on where it's been and where it's going.

Scott Meuser, Chairman and CEO of Pride Mobility, shares his views and his contagious enthusiasm about Pride, Quantum and the future of Rehab. Listen to Scott paint a convincing, upbeat picture about innovation, passion for doing the right thing, and improving the lives of people in wheelchairs.

Mike Ballard, founder of National Seating & Mobility, continues with Part 2 of his discussion about where the World of Rehab came from and where it's going.

Dr. Schmeler continues his conversation about Rehab, Seating, and Mobility. Mark is an important cog in the machinery that crafts the future of Rehab, Please listen to his upbeat and enlightened understanding of how best to manage the future of providing mobility to the people that need it.