My Favorite Moments of 2014

Holy lightning-fast 2014, Batman! I can’t believe that it’s almost time to ring in 2015. But before I Auld Lang Syne 2014 and map out my new year's resolutions, I’m going to reflect on this past year, because, honestly, it was a monumental one for me—both personally and professionally. Here are my highlights:

Inc. 500 Two Years Running

In 2013, WebPT ranked as #233 on Inc. 500’s list of the fastest-growing companies in the United States. The amazing honor validated WebPT’s belief that success starts with a great idea and grows with hard work, the right people, and a culture-driven environment. In 2014, we ranked on the list again, and it was just the praise we needed for Silicon Valley to look toward Phoenix and take note.

Lighting the Fire of Innovation

So, what happens when Silicon Valley takes note of WebPT? They also pay attention to the physical therapy industry. In June, I announced WebPT’s acceptance of a significant investment from Battery Ventures, a nationally-recognized firm known for backing some very successful technology companies (like Groupon, Marketo, Brightree, and ExactTarget). The investment proved what this company and our 40,000+ Members already know: rehab therapists are uniquely poised to make an impact on health care in the coming years, and with Battery’s financial backing, we can partner with PTs, OTs, and SLPs to amplify that impact.

Bet on Outcomes

Our first step in making an impact? Acquiring WebOutcomes, which is an online outcomes tracking tool for PTs and OTs. Healthcare is moving toward a pay-for-performance model, and to compete in this evolving market, therapists must objectively demonstrate their strengths as healthcare providers. And that’s exactly what outcomes empower them to do. So, why WebOutcomes? Well, unlike other PT outcomes software, WebOutcomes features a diverse library of evidence-based, industry-accepted tests that are already familiar to—and respected within—the healthcare community at large. If we’re going to use outcomes to effect change, then we must collect and report data that everyone—regardless of medical specialty—understands.

The Doctor is In

While I stopped practicing physical therapy in a clinical setting in 2011, it was still important to me that I obtain my doctorate degree. After all, physical therapists currently completing their PT programs must obtain DPTs. I know we’re all doctorate-level professionals, regardless of what alphabet soup comes after our name. Still, I’m a forever learner—always hungry for knowledge. That’s why, this year, I completed Evidence in Motion’s Executive Program in Private Practice Management and Postprofessional Doctorate of Physical Therapy. What a rewarding, insightful, and motivating experience. For those practicing private practice owners out there currently debating on expanding their academic and business experience, I sincerely recommend this program. It was like a mini-MBA program specifically designed for PTs.

Now that I’m writing about my favorite moments from 2014, I realize the list could go on for several more pages, covering everything from joining the Phoenix Children's Museum’s and Support My Club’s boards of directors and purchasing a new home to recording Mean Tweets and speaking at the 2014 Ascend Business Summit. This past year was a significant—and busy!—one, indeed. That means I’ve got some work to do next year to top it. Stay tuned for my January founder letter, where I’ll detail what I believe is PT’s main mission for 2015.

Now it’s your turn. What were your favorite moments of 2014?