Skip to main content

DefiningMoment-banner.png

Listen to an audio version of this column, voiced by the author.

As I write this in June, for months the patients in my skilled nursing facility have been dealing with the health and lifestyle consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. I'd like to focus on one patient who has been particularly affected. Providing care for her has tapped all of my skills as a PTA and reflects the reasons why I choose this career.

Before being infected with the novel coronavirus, this patient, who is 82, could ambulate for short distances using a walker and stand with minimal assistance. She primarily spent her days sitting in her wheelchair reading or watching TV. Even though she was asymptomatic when she tested positive for COVID-19, she was placed in an isolation unit at the SNF.

Log in or create a free account to keep reading.


Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.


You Might Also Like...

News

Congress Is Back in Town: 5 Things to Watch on Capitol Hill in September

Sep 2, 2025

In July, APTA and other provider groups secured a 2.5% funding increase from Congress to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2026. While this was a

News

October Is National Physical Therapy Month: See How APTA Helps You Celebrate

Sep 2, 2025

APTA is recognizing National Physical Therapy Month in October by spotlighting the vital role physical therapy plays in improving movement for people of

News

Final FY ’26 SNF and IRF Rules: Payment Increases and Removal of SDOH Measures

Aug 27, 2025

The Big Picture: Effective Oct. 1, 2025, skilled nursing facilities will see a payment increase of 3.2%, which is slightly higher than the 2.8% included