October 10, 2012
Hello everybody:
I'd like to pay special tribute to our College of Allied Health Professions, specifically our Physician Assistant and Physical Therapy programs, which this month mark special occasions.
This week, October 6-12, is National Physician Assistant Week, commemorating the anniversary of the first graduating Physician Assistant class at Duke University on October 6, 1967. Across the United States, National Physician Assistant Week is used by practicing PAs, PA colleges, and PA students to increase awareness of the profession and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
WesternU's PA program, which started in 1990, was a milestone in WesternU's expansion of the School of Allied Health Professions, which ultimately became College of Allied Health Professions (CAHP). The program is committed to the highest professional standards in patient care, including understanding the patient as a whole person, health promotion and disease prevention, and the role of physical assessment in the diagnosis and management of illness.
CAHP also celebrates another important event this month, as the Physical Therapy program celebrates its 20th anniversary during National Physical Therapy Month. The observance emphasizes the important role physical therapists play in the spectrum of health care, especially in helping patients decrease pain, improve mobility, and engage in healthy lifestyles. WesternU's program educates caring practitioners who are committed to lifelong learning, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice to address community health needs.
On campus, National Physical Therapy Month observances began last week with the first of weekly guest lectures, and a visit from Joshua "JJ" Miller, a 4-year-old living life to the fullest despite multiple health problems. Joshua's story has inspired DPT students to raise money for the Challenged Athletes Foundation by competing in the San Diego Triathlon Challenge later this month. On October 24th, a barbecue and activities sponsored by the Physical Therapy Advocacy Club will also help celebrate the month.
I know you will join me in congratulating the Physician Assistant and Physical Therapy departments' staff, faculty, and students, not only for these milestone events, but also for the ongoing excellence of their programs and their commitment to caring. They are huge assets to the University and to the communities they serve, and are two of WesternU's finest Benchmarks of Value.
As always, I welcome your feedback on this topic and any others as we discuss WesternU's Benchmarks of Value, and our plans. Please e-mail me with your thoughts at ppumerantz@westernu.edu, and feel free to share this message with your family and friends.
My best to you all,
