Susan Riley, DPT, planned on retiring from her role as interim clinical director of physical therapy at Mass General Brigham in Boston. Retirement — and a per diem role somewhere — would make it easier to spend time with her two Omaha-based grandchildren.
Then she stumbled upon an opening for the director of the Munroe-Meyer Institute’s Physical Therapy Department.
“I could continue to practice in a field I absolutely love and wasn’t ready to give up,” Dr. Riley said, “But I could have evenings and weekends with my grandchildren.”
Dr. Riley takes on the role at MMI in January.
“We expect that she will continue on the path of growing exceptional PT services, premier teaching and new research endeavors at your department and MMI,” MMI Director Karoly Mirnics, MD, said when announcing Dr. Riley’s appointment to the position.
Dr. Mirnics also commended Amy Beyersdorf for her exceptional work while serving as interim director.
Dr. Riley has been a physical therapist for 45 years. Most of her practice has been in pediatrics. She’s grown the physical therapy program at Mass General Brigham during her tenure there.
During her interview process, Dr. Riley said she was impressed by the collaboration between the institute’s different departments.
“The interdisciplinary collaboration and support for the role was very striking to me,” Dr. Riley said. “That infrastructure is incredible for supporting clinical practice and patient care. Having a team of dedicated, smart people to provide input to support clinical operations is rare. The space and facilities open so many possibilities.”
Dr. Riley’s short-term goal at MMI is getting to know each therapist and their practice. That’s the first step, she said, in learning how she can support team members, aid them in achieving individual goals and listen to any ideas they bring to the table.
Longer term, Dr. Riley said she wants to make sure patients continue to have the access to care that they need.
“I’m very excited to start and to get to know people,” Dr. Riley said. “I want to see how I can best keep the department moving forward.”