PA 4 LIFE

07/04/2025

I was honored to be a part of the Futures program through Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association (PALTmed) this year. Thank you to the donors who contributed to this scholarship.

As someone new to LTC, I wanted to seek opportunities to learn more about caring for geriatric residents in skilled facilities and long term care facilities. This program allowed me to meet many other individuals new to this field, and most importantly for me, to meet some great people to help mentor me along the way. Michael Wasserman has been especially gracious of his time, and it’s great to learn from such a knowledgeable colleague.

This group not only welcomed me to the organization, but there were so many individuals who provided their personal contact information to stay connected. That is what makes this organization great—relationships. Feeling part of an organization is really important in a time when clinicians are feeling very disconnected, and often very alone.

To pay it forward I have joined the education and membership teams in hopes of helping the next futures group.

Please consider joining PALTmed—I would love to connect with you through the online forums or at the next conference.

https://paltmed.org/ PALTmed | Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association

03/15/2025

Many of you know that I transitioned to Long-Term Care and Acute Skilled Rehab last year. I was honored to be selected to be a part of the Futures program, which is for providers and team members who are new to this field. I have met so many great people this week at PALTmed. I’m looking forward to being a part of this organization.

12/05/2024

A resident at one of my facilities asked me what I might want for Christmas, just in case he saw something at the store when he takes a trip there.

This resident has very limited income so I was a little surprised that he asked ME what I would want from HIM.

I didn’t even have to think about it. I told him that my Christmas gift this year is being able to take care of such a kind person.

Working in Long Term Care has been such a great transition for me. Yes I loved working in the hospital and ER, but getting to know my residents and caring for them day in and day out has been so rewarding.

I’m counting my blessings today. I think God has me in the right place.

10/06/2024

On Friday my international flight home to the U.S. (from Punta Cana to ATL) was interrupted by a call for any medical personnel aboard the airplane.

It’s crazy how instincts kick in when needed.

The Delta Air Lines crew explained that a person was experiencing a medical emergency and requested my help to ensure that appropriate care was provided.

Thankfully we were able to take steps to stabilize the situation and avoid diversion to the closest airport.

I was so impressed with the team working on that flight. They worked together to ensure this person was cared for in a timely manner. They were compassionate, kind, and showed willingness to do whatever task that needed to be performed. Each member played an important role and I observed ongoing communication among each team member.

As a emergency medicine PA for over 20 years I have never been in a similar situation, however it was an honor to help this crew.

How timely that this occurred on National PA Week. I’m proud to be a PA and thankful for the many diverse experiences provided by my career.

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08/13/2024

Long overdue!

“This new contract is a huge win for patients and nurses,” said Earline Shepard, RN