Chris Chimenti, PT

Chris is running for Vice President in the 2020 Board Elections. 

I received my Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology in 1994 from Grove City College in western Pennsylvania. In 1997, I earned my Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Slippery Rock University in the same region of Pennsylvania. Immediately following graduation, I accepted a position with Novacare Outpatient Rehabilitation in Crowley, Louisiana where I spent two years treating a variety of patients across a wide age span. After meeting my wife who is also a P.T., we decided to relocate closer to home in the northeast to raise our family. I joined HCR Home Care in Rochester, New York in 1999 as a staff home health care Physical Therapist. In August 2002, I received a promotion to Therapeutic Services Program Manager, and in May of 2006, was appointed Director of Therapeutic Services. My goal has always been to foster a culture of professional development with our organization, with a particular focus on best practice and skill development opportunities. As a leader, my intent is always to promote autonomy, job satisfaction, and individual success. My research interests lie in the area of home health care practice, with a particular focus on using evidence to drive successful outcomes. I have conducted a number of studies throughout my career across a variety of special interest areas including falls prevention, Parkinson’s Disease management, pain management, sepsis screening, and total knee replacement rehabilitation. I have presented on various research topics at both regional and national conferences. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my wife Kelly, our 16 year-old son Brady, our 14 year-old daughter Allie. My interests include physical fitness, fishing, boating, skiing, and gardening.

Candidate Statement
Over the years, we have encountered a number of changes within our industry. A payment model change, mounting regulation, and growing documentation demands continue to bring unique challenges to our day-to-day work. The COVID-19 pandemic has compelled us to step back and reevaluate our care practices and infection control procedures. If I were to be re-elected as Vice President, my intent would be to continue to advance our Section to a position of influence with CMS and other decision-making entities that impart control on our professional practice. We have many challenges ahead, but with strong, experienced leadership and a robust strategic plan, we can continue to represent our interests at the national level and serve as the go-to resource for those seeking guidance on home care physical therapy practice. I have served the Section in various leadership positions for over 14 years now and have contributed to our advancements in a number of different ways. As a Senior Director of a long-standing, successful home care organization, I have many years of experience in strategic planning and quality improvement initiatives. I am confident the skills I have developed as a senior leader enhance my ability to contribute to the Section and our membership. If elected, I will commit the necessary time and energy to ensure the Section continues to deliver optimum service to the members who look to us for leadership, guidance, and support.