ELEVATING PATIENT CARE WITH DEDICATED CLINICIANS

by Christina O'Leary | Nov 1, 2024 | Company Culture, In The News

At Bedrock Healthcare at Home’s Patient Care Therapy Group, we believe in the transformative impact of lifelong learning, especially for therapists who are committed to providing the highest quality of care. This commitment to growth is why we’re thrilled to have Michaela DeLiberato, MS, OTR/L, LSVT, CDP, as one of our Occupational Therapists specializing in home care for older adults. Michaela’s journey in healthcare, marked by continuous professional development and specialization, exemplifies how passionate clinicians elevate patient care, offering skill, empathy, and tailored interventions.

Why Continuing Education Matters in Healthcare

For therapists, continuing education is essential to stay current on the best practices and emerging research that shape patient care. Occupational therapy, especially with aging populations, requires a nuanced understanding of both physical and mental health. Staying informed allows therapists like Michaela to provide effective care that adapts to the unique challenges of aging. Continuous learning fosters confidence and trust, giving patients the assurance that they’re in expert hands. For Michaela, who holds a BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences and a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall University, a commitment to lifelong learning has been her cornerstone since early in her career.

Spotlight on Michaela DeLiberato, MS, OTR/L, BCG, LSVT, CDP

Michaela’s dedication to her field is clear in her credentials and certifications, which include:

• LSVT BIG: Specialization in Parkinson’s Disease therapy
• Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP): Training for working with patients with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
• Reiki & OT Level I & II: Integrating holistic practices into her therapy approach

Michaela’s most recent accomplishment is earning the prestigious AOTA Board Certification in Gerontology (BCG)—a distinction held by fewer than 1% of occupational therapists in the U.S., with only 142 OTs currently certified. This credential requires extensive experience: at least three years as an OT, 3,000 hours in geriatric care, and 500 direct patient hours. Her certification represents a milestone in her career and for Bedrock Patient Care Therapy Group. Michaela notes that “achieving AOTA’s BCG has been a goal since I started working with older adults. I’m incredibly proud to bring this level of expertise to our team and my patients.”

The Value of Specialized Clinicians in Geriatric Care

In Michaela’s words, “As the older adult population continues to age, it is imperative that we advocate for occupational therapy and the value we bring to helping older adults.” This population often faces unique challenges, from maintaining mobility to recovering independence in daily tasks. Specialized knowledge, like Michaela’s, allows clinicians to create targeted interventions that significantly impact patient lives, helping prevent hospitalizations and enabling aging in place.

Michaela’s approach centers on “thinking outside the box” to meet patients’ goals, a perspective informed by her early experiences with family members in healthcare and her longstanding passion for helping others. Raised on the Jersey Shore and influenced by her parents’ volunteer work as EMTs, Michaela found her calling in occupational therapy—a role that allows her to build relationships with patients and improve their daily lives.

Continuing Education as a Path to Quality Patient Care

Continuing education and advanced certifications, like the BCG, are crucial in today’s healthcare landscape. They are a testament to a clinician’s commitment to both their field and their patients. Michaela believes that “earning your BCG adds value to the profession by demonstrating excellence of care and critical thinking in geriatrics.” She highlights that by staying informed on the latest research, OTs can serve their patients better, providing specialized care tailored to their unique needs.

Looking Forward with Passionate, Skilled Clinicians

We’re proud to support and celebrate clinicians like Michaela, who bring expertise, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning to their practice. Michaela’s story serves as a powerful example of how continued professional growth benefits both the therapist and their patients, fostering a healthcare culture that champions patient well-being, independence, and fulfillment.

Written by – Christina O’Leary