What keeps a rural physical therapist energized when every day brings a new challenge, and a new patient story? In this episode, we sit down with Holly Hildebrand and Brittany McClary, Central District co-chairs for APTA Nebraska, to explore how small hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient clinics deliver big outcomes across central Nebraska. From pediatrics to post-stroke care, they share what it’s really like to manage wide—and deeply rewarding—caseloads in critical access settings, and why strong community ties make the work both personal and powerful.

Their stories underscore the impact of mentorship and early exposure: hospital rotations that broaden perspective, tech roles that reveal the full scope of physical therapy, and sports screenings that spark a lifelong calling. We also pull back the curtain on the often-unseen work behind better access to care. Holly and Brittany break down what the APTA Nebraska executive board actually does, from three-year strategic planning to advocacy at the state and national levels. Policy becomes practical when it determines who gets seen, when services are approved, and how rural clinics remain viable.

Outreach and education take center stage as the Central District meets communities where they are, providing answering real-world questions about pain, injury, and prevention at events like Husker Harvest Days. We also preview an upcoming multi-campus continuing education day featuring school-based pediatrics, custom orthotics, and pelvic floor essentials for generalists—free for members and designed to reduce travel barriers. The conversation wraps with a look ahead to the statewide conference, a cornerstone for learning, networking, and recharging with colleagues who truly understand the rural terrain.

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Episode Links:

APTA Executive Committee: Nebraska Physical Therapy Association - Executive Committee

Continuing Education Signup: Central and Eastern District Continuing Education Day Sign Up