Listen "Patrick Sullivan – Embedded Air Force PT"
Episode Synopsis
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 Background01:32 Early Career Exploration03:50 Discovering Physical Therapy05:35 Challenges and Realizations07:53 Clinical Experiences and Decisions15:06 Military Training and Mentorship27:12 Autonomy and Scope in Military PT35:46 Navigating the Learning Curve38:51 The Importance of Mentorship40:12 Documentation Challenges41:37 Career Path and Relocation42:36 Embedded Positions and Team Dynamics53:55 The Reality of Military Life59:31 Final Thoughts and Advice
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