One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is getting to witness and assist with the growth of our people and our departments. I’ve worked with McPherson Hospital for the past 25 years. In the beginning, the department had one PT, one PTA and a part-time OT.

In 2001, we hired Brandon Labertew, PT and then promoted him to serve as rehab director. Brandon’s leadership has helped us prosper. We now have nine therapists and the full gamut of rehab programs. We have fought hard against local competition and have remained the first choice for therapy in McPherson.

Brandon Labertew, PT works with a recovering college athlete in the new clinic space.

Our COO Rick Larmore recently commented about how fun it’s been to watch Brandon’s growth over the years. “I’m just so impressed with his longevity and the way he’s woven himself and his family into that community,” he said. I couldn’t agree more. Not only has he grown his own department, but he now serves as an area director overseeing four hospital therapy staffs in central Kansas.

Area Manager Brandon Labertew, PT chats with COO Rick Larmore and Director of Operations Steve Kinkead, SLP at McPherson Hospital’s Rehab Department Open House in September.

I was in McPherson recently for the opening of their new rehab space, an approximately 5000 square-foot area that was formerly a physicians’ clinic. The space itself is so well-planned, thanks to Brandon and his team. They have six private treatment rooms, a beautiful reception area and a large gym.

It’s so satisfying to have clients like McPherson Hospital. They have allowed us to do what we do best—help to grow programs, cultivate talented therapists, and provide excellent care to the members of the community.