New Occupational Therapist Enhances Rehabilitation at PVCH

Addie Kershner has joined the rehabilitation team at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) in Larned, Kansas, where she aims to improve the quality of life for patients facing challenges in their daily activities. Kershner specializes in Occupational Therapy (OT), which addresses limitations caused by injury, illness, or developmental delays.

Kershner explains that OT services are designed for individuals struggling with everyday tasks, such as dressing, eating, or working. Her role involves evaluating patients, developing tailored treatment plans, and implementing interventions that promote functional independence. In addition to general rehabilitation, Kershner provides focused care for shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands.

“These OT services can make a real difference in a person’s daily life,” Kershner noted. She expressed her passion for the profession, emphasizing the rewards of helping patients lead more independent and fulfilling lives.

Commitment to Quality Care

Kershner is enthusiastic about her new position at PVCH, citing the welcoming atmosphere and supportive staff. “Everyone strives to provide high-quality services with comprehensive and personalized care,” she said. The hospital offers up-to-date, evidence-based equipment and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of patients for optimal recovery.

Kershner earned her Bachelor of Science degree in community health, with a minor in applied behavioral science, from The University of Kansas. She later obtained her entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy at The University of Kansas Medical Center. Prior to joining PVCH, Kershner gained valuable experience as a therapy technician in an orthopedic outpatient clinic and has worked across various settings, including inpatient and community-based services.

Her local roots run deep, with her parents, Bruce and Ellen Kershner, residing in Rush Center. Kershner and her fiancé, Kody, recently purchased a home in Larned and are excited to contribute to the community.

Team Support and Future Prospects

Jason Rath, the rehabilitation manager at PVCH, praised Kershner’s addition to the team. “Addie is a great addition to our rehab team. Her personality fits in great with her colleagues, and her compassion for patients is obvious,” Rath stated. He highlighted her strong work ethic and eagerness to enhance patient care.

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, located at 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility that offers a range of services not typically available in smaller hospitals. These services include 24/7 emergency care, acute and specialized nursing, surgery, advanced imaging and laboratory tests, wound care, rehabilitation, and a sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides comprehensive family medicine services, physician-assisted weight loss, and women’s health services. The hospital can be reached at 620-285-3161, while the clinic’s contact number is 620-804-6007.

Kershner’s commitment to her patients and the supportive environment at PVCH promise a positive impact on the local community’s health and well-being.