Physical & Occupational Therapists

Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) were established in the division of pediatric hematology/oncology outpatient clinic to provide comprehensive care to the patient population undergoing chronic medical treatment. A clinic space has evolved within the outpatient clinic and has been designated for the consultation, evaluation, triage, and treatment of the pediatric hematology/oncology patient. The goal of the Physical Therapy service is to identify and treat musculoskeletal impairments which restrict the child from participating in daily activity, allowing the child to continue to function in the least restrictive environment while engaged in the hematology/oncology process so that they may be interactive in peer, family and community relationships while medically stable and to reduce the long term effects on the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems. These impairments can be caused by the early and late effects of the chemotherapeutic agents or medications, surgical interventions, and as a result of the chronic complications of life-long diseases such as sickle cell anemia and hemophilia. The PT is coordinated with the medical care that the child is receiving at the clinic and is prescribed by the physician.  The PT also acts as a facilitator and mediator for related services provided in the school and community.

Katherine L Deasy

Katherine L Deasy

Occup Therapist