My name is Roxanne Cedor and I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy. I became a physical therapist because I wanted to help people and have a career that was making a difference for the better. Once I learned some of the basics of physical therapy, I was extremely interested. I went to the local hospital and asked if I could follow a therapist for a week. I think it was much easier to get approvals like that in the late 80’s, early 90’s. I was hooked! I realized this was something that was going to be interesting and fun!
I was a young adult working 3 jobs. I was not sure how I was going to be able to afford a college degree. I just knew that I wanted a career where I could go anywhere and help people. One day, I decided to go straight to the community college. I had to ask if there were any options I qualified for in order to start working towards a degree.
After several years of student loans and working whatever jobs fit into my class schedules, I finally made it! My first job was at a hospital in a small town in Arizona. I loved going to work and felt energized moving from one person to the next to see how I could help them. I felt like everyone was a puzzle and I needed to figure out what I could do to help them improve their independence or feel better. It was a challenge that I was excited to take on!
From the beginning I have promised myself to treat every patient with the respect and care that I would give to a loved family member. I do think that if all medical professionals and insurance companies used this model, we would have a much better medical system. I am realistic and I do understand that insurance companies are businesses out for a profit. I am also very aware that medical professionals have to meet certain requirements dictated by the insurance companies. So, sometimes their hands are tied as to what they can do for you.
I have finally reached a point in my career where I believe there is another way that I can be helpful. A way that does not require jumping through hoops to check off boxes for an insurance company. A way that will not leave a person feeling like they did not benefit from the physical therapy experience or got cut off of services due to progressing slowly. The answer is at home physical therapy. A traveling physical therapist that will come to you. Yes, this does mean paying directly and not allowing the insurance company to dictate your services.
There are many reasons you may want to work with a physical therapist. Some examples are: building strength, improving balance, improving gait (walking), increased endurance, developing a safe exercise program, building independence for daily activities and recreational activities, increased independence for transfers, and caregiver training to safely assist. Physical therapists can also provide help with the effects of: stroke, arthritis, chronic pain, Parkinson’s, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia just to name a few. Physical therapists want you to be as independent as possible. This means we strive to teach you to be able to take care of yourself and reach any goals you set for yourself.
I moved to the Big Island in 2011. I have loved working with the people here. My goal is to be a very positive addition to your options for healthy living. Soon, I will be sharing information regarding various topics that I hope you will find useful. ALOHA, Have a wonderful day!
