(Chris Glover oversees operations at the Therapeutic Associates clinics in La Pine and Sunriver | Photo courtesy of Therapeutic Associates)
If you were in pain, or had an injury or condition that required outpatient physical therapy for other reasons ranging from vertigo to stroke recovery, would you choose a clinic with a “patient-first” emphasis, or one focused on the volume of patients coming in and out of its doors?
Therapeutic Associates, now celebrating its 70th anniversary with operations in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and California — including La Pine, Sunriver, Bend and Sisters — is founded on the first philosophy: “providing the most compassionate, cost-effective care possible, while ensuring that patients are actively involved as partners and advocates for their health,” said Chris Glover PT, MPT.
In charge of both the La Pine and Sunriver locations, while also working alongside the other male and female therapists, Glover treats a variety of orthopedic conditions ranging from spinal care to disorders of the upper and lower extremities, and work-related injuries. He was drawn to Therapeutic Associates because of its core values.
In addition to treating patients with a “comprehensive, individualized approach to care,” Glover explained that “these core values include a commitment to compassion for others; promoting a culture of learning, embracing ownership and individual opportunity; being a leader in the communities we serve; promoting health and well-being; and a constant drive to do the right thing.”
He added that “We participate in regular group meetings (now conducted virtually due to COVID), and know we can reach out and talk to our executive team or colleagues throughout the company at any time. Therapeutic Associates believes that ‘If you have a passion, we’ll support you,’ which was a really good fit with my own personal and professional goals.”
Of the two local clinics, he described La Pine as “a little busier,” but added that “we’re also seeing a positive growth trend in Sunriver.” Glover attributes this success partially to the many resources available by being part of a larger company: “In addition to treating more common orthopedic injuries and post-surgical cases, we also offer a variety of specialty services that are not often available in rural areas. These include aquatic therapy, pelvic health, vestibular/falls rehab, concussion/headache management and temporomandibular joint treatment.”
As Glover summed up, “We are dedicated to making sure every patient has a positive, successful experience during their pursuit of recovery, rehabilitation and journey to optimal performance, health and wellness.”
Alissa Grant, a long-time employee at the La Pine location, considers Therapeutic Associates “my home away from home, and my second-most favorite place to be. I love the patients and my interactions with them, and get to be the person who first says hello and welcomes patients when they come in.” As she has witnessed, “once people have chosen Therapeutic Associates, they don’t seek physical therapy care anywhere else.”
