“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”

OPRAH WINFREY (B. 1954), AMERICAN TV PERSONALITY, ACTRESS, AND PRODUCER

Rogena Schuyler Silverman

Fortunately, the end of 2009 is approaching. Unfortunately, it is not going gently into the night. The economy and health care remain in the forefront of national concern—the economic downturn, record bankruptcies and unemployment, loss of industry, inflated cost-of-living, and a health care debate that AARP has likened to a roller derby. Despite this dire list of obstacles, Americans are meeting them as best they can—cutting back on luxuries, spending only on “the basics,” and (for those fortunate enough to remain employed in a shrinking workplace) working harder, under stress, with increased responsibilities. In addition, with shrinking medical benefits and a growing number of uninsured, it is important to remain as healthy as possible to avoid burdensome medical bills.

Physical and occupational therapists can play a crucial role helping individuals remain in fit condition for the challenging trek ahead. One possibility is implementing cash services, such as personalized fitness regimens to improve overall well-being and physical strength. Another is creating outreach programs to provide fitness awareness at local schools and community centers. Yet another is to become involved in implementing job analysis and work injury programs for industrial and commercial entities to ensure safe work conditions and more efficient workers. However their skills and knowledge are applied, physical medicine and rehabilitation professionals not only can provide their clients with the vital service of keeping them in prime condition for life’s next challenge, but they can secure their own positions in the evolving health care industry. In fact, physical therapy jobs remain among preferred career choices. In a recent CNNMoney.com1 article entitled “Best Jobs in America,” a job as a physical therapist rates seventh in the nation for “great pay and prospects.”

The staff of Rehab Management, Jody Rich, Michael Hirano, Judy O’Rourke, and myself, would like to take this opportunity to wish its readers a joyous holiday season, and the hope for peace, prosperity, and good health in the upcoming year.

—ROGENA SCHUYLER SILVERMAN

REFERENCE

  1. money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bestjobs/2009/snapshots/7.html

Editor’s note:
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Letters to the Editor” is an online exclusive in this month’s issue.