Kristy Wikum, MS, CCC-SLP, has more than 25 years of management experience as CEO/president of Centrex Rehab and former executive director of Augustana Therapy Services.
Most recent articles by Kristy Wikum
Therapy is key in controlling pain and curtailing opioid use
By
Matthew Mesibov
Kristy Wikum
Apr 11, 2018
Fortunately, there is an alternative to opioid use, but it is not considered as often as it should be. Physical therapists see a lot people with injuries or illnesses who are experiencing pain, so we speak...
It’s time to bundle up
By
Kristy Wikum
Oct 12, 2016
As we are moving towards new payment systems, it is imperative that we are involved and offer comments when we are able to as this will greatly impact us as providers. We also need to stay informed so...
The emotional side of healing
By
and Jenna Zark
Kristy Wikum
Jun 24, 2016
While the body is almost magical in its ability to heal and recover lost ground, the mind and emotions can sometimes hold us back. Building inner strength, while building up physical abilities is an important...
Spending time and money on employees pays off
By
Kristy Wikum
Mar 07, 2016
While I have talked about a few of the items we implemented to keep our therapists excited about working with us, I always go back to the concept of having to spend money to make money.
Efficiency and overly high expectations hurt residents and therapists
By
Kristy Wikum
Nov 11, 2015
As in any area of work where you are taking care of people, burnout can exist both physically and emotionally. As employers in the healthcare field, we have to think proactively to try to provide the best...
Regulations that misfire
By
Kristy Wikum
Aug 28, 2015
A survey for our adult day care center opened my eyes to how regulations do not always support triple aim, especially related to staffing.
Keep your staff informed
By
Kristy Wikum
May 14, 2015
The main barrier we all face is how we communicate with and educate our population, which means providing good information to both providers and consumers.
Advocating for those who need us
By
Kristy Wikum
Feb 25, 2015
Providing the best care for our therapy patients has evolved and expanded over the past year. Our roles as therapists have broadened to include advocating for patients as well as providing services for...
When is telehealth the right option?
By
Kristy Wikum
Nov 13, 2014
As providers, patients, and payers look for more cost-effective and efficient ways to provide health care, some are turning to telehealth as an option. Telehealth involves using electronic communication...
Getting noticed by ACOs
By
Kristy Wikum
Aug 12, 2014
Accountable care organizations were created to promote better care and better health for individuals and populations at a lower cost. They must identify providers that excel in areas not covered by ACOs...