Anyone who struggles to perform regular, daily tasks at home or on the job might want to consider the benefits of occupational therapy, said Camelle Wassenberg, OT at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.
Wassenberg, Larned, wanted to share information about this type of therapy in observance of National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, Sept. 16-22.
“Occupational therapists use evidence-based interventions to help people do the things they want and need to do,” Wassenberg said. “We focus on independence with performing daily tasks, while promoting health, well-being and the ability to participate in the activities important to you.”
The main goal is to increase physical functioning and reduce pain after an illness, accident or other event. This can be accomplished by providing assistive devices or strategies, restoring strength and range of motion, and educating patients about ways to prevent further harm and improve quality of life.
The first step is an evaluation during which the OT gathers information on a patient’s history. “We learn about their experiences and interests so that we can determine a plan of care,” Wassenberg explained. “Then interventions are introduced to improve performance of tasks and allow you to reach your goals.
“Outcomes are assessed to ensure you make progress and eventually meet your goals. Helping patients improve their quality of life and regain their independence means so much to me. I can connect with them and celebrate their victories.”
A doctor’s referral is not necessary for OT services.
Wassenberg, a Kinsley native, earned an associate’s degree at Barton Community College; a bachelor’s of General Science from Fort Hays State University; and Entry Level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from The University of Kansas.
Her professional background includes working as a licensed pharmacy technician for nine years. Wassenberg also has OT clinical experience in various settings such as home health, outpatient, memory care, mental health and acute care.
“I have been at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital for a little more than a year and have felt at home from the beginning,” Wassenberg commented. “My colleagues are supportive in every aspect of patient care and communicate well with one another. This creates a welcoming environment for patients and families.
“In addition, we have up-to-date OT equipment and services to meet our patients’ needs,” she added. “As a critical-access hospital, we are fortunate to have this professional team to create patient-centered, holistic healthcare plans.”
Jason Rath, rehab manager, said “Camelle is a great addition to the important OT side of our department. She and Angela Meitner, OT assistant, share a great passion for our patients’ well-being and strive to provide the best care possible.”
Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility, offering many services not typically available in a smaller facility. Included are 24/7 emergency care; acute, skilled and specialized nursing; surgery; high-tech imaging and laboratory tests; wound care; rehabilitation; and sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides the full range of family-medicine services; physician-assisted weight loss; and women’s health services. The hospital’s number is 620-285-3161; the clinic’s number is 620-804-6007.
