PT Path
Authentic stories from physical therapists navigating challenges, making pivotal decisions, and discovering their purpose. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or considering a career change, these conversations will inspire you to explore possibilities within our PT community. Join us as we explore the diverse paths of physical therapy – one story at a time.
PT Path
Patrick Sullivan – Embedded Air Force PT
In this episode, we meet Patrick Sullivan, a class of 2016 graduate of the UCSF/SFSU Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, who now serves as an active duty Air Force physical therapist. Patrick shares his career journey, from his initial interest in health care during high school to his current role in the Air Force. He discusses the influence of mentors, the valuable experiences gained through varied clinical settings, and the unique aspects of working as a physical therapist in the military. Patrick emphasizes the importance of direct access, professional development, and a holistic approach to patient care, while also shedding light on the administrative and logistical challenges of his job. This episode provides an insightful look into the career trajectory and life of a military PT.
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:32 Early Career Exploration
03:50 Discovering Physical Therapy
05:35 Challenges and Realizations
07:53 Clinical Experiences and Decisions
15:06 Military Training and Mentorship
27:12 Autonomy and Scope in Military PT
35:46 Navigating the Learning Curve
38:51 The Importance of Mentorship
40:12 Documentation Challenges
41:37 Career Path and Relocation
42:36 Embedded Positions and Team Dynamics
53:55 The Reality of Military Life
59:31 Final Thoughts and Advice