Member Spotlight: Norman Schlact, MPT

Norman Schlact, MPT

1.    What inspired you to pursue a career in physical therapy?

I was fortunate to meet a passionate physical therapist who encouraged me to volunteer at her hospital’s outpatient PT department. There, I was able to observe what it was like treating patients with a variety of issues. I was especially amazed and inspired watching a college football player who had a hemorrhagic stroke progress to the point of lifting a 1lb weight over his head, which brought tears to his eyes. After seeing how his life was transformed by his dedicated PT, I was hooked. I knew I wanted to have the same positive impact on peoples’ lives.

2.    How long have you been practicing and what setting do you currently work in?

I’ve been a licensed practicing physical therapist for 35 years. I’m an independent owner and treating PT at my outpatient clinic, Sports and Wellness Physical Therapy, in Tampa, Florida. I treat patients with orthopedic issues as well as neurologic, vestibular, balance, headache and chronic pain.

3.    What’s your favorite part of working with patients or clients?

What I value most about working with patients are the personal relationships that I form with each person I work with. It’s very gratifying to learn each person’s life story and be able to have a positive impact by helping them to resolve their health issues.

4.    How has being a member of APTA/FPTA benefited you professionally or personally?

On a professional level, my membership in the APTA/FPTA provides me with great resources for evidence-based practice information, including guidance on navigating the reimbursement maze, keeping current with our practice act, as well as state and federal laws and regulations that impact my professional life. On a personal level, I’ve met many passionate colleagues and mentors through APTA/FPTA sponsored courses who share my goals of advancing the quality and status of physical therapy.

5.    What advice would you give to students or early career PT’s/PTA’s?

My advice to students is to explore as many different opportunities as you can and see what interests you. For early career PT’s/PTA’s, find experienced practitioners who you can learn from and ask questions! Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Practice all that you’ve learned but be willing to ask for help when you need it. PT’s and PTA’s remember what it was like just starting out so we’re happy to lend assistance when you ask.

6.    What do you think are the biggest opportunities or challenges facing the field right now?

One of the biggest opportunities I see now is expanding our role as functional primary care providers, since our role involves finding the root cause and treatment of our patient’s dysfunction. Several of the biggest challenges right now are working through the maze of reimbursement, the ever-changing rules and regulations landscape, and the battle for universal direct access to be seen by physical therapists without arbitrary limitations.

7.    If you could have dinner with any historical or famous figure, who would it be and why?

I would love to have dinner with Leonardo da Vinci. Although he was best known for his artwork and inventions, da Vinci also kept notebooks filled with drawings and notes on a variety of subjects, including human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and the effects of aging on the body. It would be fascinating to talk with him about his passion for science and art, and his desire to improve humanity through his work.

8.    What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

I love enjoying life with my wife and daughter, cooking and eating good food, spending time with friends, and traveling to fun places.