Va-LEND Integral Component of New Physical Therapy Residency Program

December 23, 2019

Dr. Terry Solano

Va LEND is now partnering with the new Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency Program at Virginia Commonwealth University. VCU joins 26 other pediatric physical therapy residency programs nationwide. The current cohort of LEND trainees includes two pediatric PTs enrolled in the new yearlong residency. Dr. Terry Solano, the director of the residency program and a former LEND trainee, sees Va-LEND participation as an ideal fit for the pediatric PT residents.

The LEND curriculum aligns closely with core components required for their education, i.e., leadership, professional development and research. "As trainees in the LEND program, Pediatric Physical Therapy Residents are provided the unique opportunity to not only learn from experts in the field of neurodevelopmental disabilities, but also develop leadership skills collaboratively with fellow trainees representing people with disabilities and other disciplines. This rich learning environment is further enhanced through exposure to the day to day experiences of a family of a child with a disability through the family mentorship experience," Solano explained. The programs' mission is to produce graduates who will be professional leaders contributing to society by providing culturally-sensitive, family-centered care; facilitating high value health related outcomes; and actively participating in evidence based practice, community engagement, teaching, and research.