The New York Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA New York) is partnering with Nazareth University to provide the public with free physical therapy health assessments at the University’s York Wellness and Rehabilitation Institute physical therapy clinic on Monday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The free assessments are part of APTA New York’s Access to Health campaign which is designed to inform the public that physical therapy is available to nearly everyone in New York without a referral from a primary care physician. Physical therapy is an effective option for maximizing movement and range of motion, as well as relieving pain without the need for invasive surgeries or the use of prescription pain medications.
During the Access to Health event at Nazareth University attendees and participating physical therapists will have the opportunity to:
Michael Tisbe, PT, DPT, president, APTA New York said, “Most people are unaware of the role physical therapy can play in overall health and wellness. That is why we are excited to continue our Access to Health Campaign with a free physical therapy assessment event that allows people to experience for themselves the improved movement, physical function, and relief from pain that physical therapists can provide their patients.”
Tisbe continued, “We want to thank our great partner Nazareth University for generously working with us to make this event happen and to help further the message that physical therapy is available without a doctor’s referral. We encourage anyone with questions or nagging pain to stop by for a free personal assessment so they can begin their journey to pain-free movement.”
Michael Huson PT, DPT, clinical associate professor, Nazareth University said, “As one of the top universities in the northeast training physical therapists, our students know the importance of public awareness regarding the benefits of physical therapy for all. Our students will be future practitioners, and Nazareth prepares them with real-world experience in an on-campus clinic, where they treat actual patients under the supervision of their professors. Giving them the ability to share with clients that PT is accessible to all without a doctor's referral is essential.”
Those interested in scheduling a free health assessment can do so by emailing Andrew Rush at Andrew@pcpublicaffairs.com. Walk-ins will be welcomed, space permitting.
The Access to Health campaign kicked off in the Capital Region in September with an event at Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady where dozens of attendees received free health screenings, and will continue with additional events throughout the state over the coming year.
In New York, almost anyone can see a physical therapist at any time without a referral from a doctor and these visits are often covered under employer-provided health plans. To find a physical therapist, people can visit ChoosePT.org.
ABOUT APTA New York
APTA New York is the state chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), an individual membership professional organization representing 100,000-member physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical therapy. APTA New York functions as an advocate for New York physical therapists, fighting to protect their practices, for fair payment, and to eliminate obstacles preventing consumers from having access to physical therapy treatment. Learn more at https://aptany.org.
Julie Long | Senior News & PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.