Feb 29 2024

Morales Santos, Ricardo

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Professional Goal Statement:

  • After obtaining my DPT and licensure, I plan to work in NC outpatient orthopedic and sports settings. My previous background as a Certified Athletic Trainer and my clinical experiences and courses have allowed me to seek this setting. I aim to provide high-quality, patient-centered care that is evidence-based while making sure to understand the specific needs of each patient. My goal is to empower patients and allow them to take hold of their goals. My long term goal is to open a clinic focused on providing high quality care for Spanish speaking patients. 

Career Plan

  • Undergraduate Education
      • UNC-Chapel Hill: Exercise and Sports Science – Athletic Training, Class of 2019
      • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Doctor of Physical Therapy; Class of 2024
  • Clinical Experience
      • Southeastern Orthopedic Specialists Physical Therapy – OP Ortho and Sports (12 weeks)
      • Integrated Clinical Experience Elective, UNC – Ambulatory Care Center, NC – OP Ortho  (60+ hours)
      • Chatham Rehabilitation Services at Pittsboro, NC – Neuro & Underserved (8 weeks)                                                 
      • UNC Therapy Services in Hillsborough, NC – Acute Care (8 weeks)
      • Cone Health Rehabilitation at Drawbridge Parkway, NC – Outpatient Ortho  (8 weeks)
  • Objectives
    • Graduate with DPT in July 2024
    • Pass the NPTE in July 2024
    • Work in an outpatient orthopedic and sports clinic in NC
    • Obtain dry needling certification
    • Consider testing for board certification as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)

Self Assessment:   

  • Strengths:
    • Problem-solving skills 
    • Patient rapport and cultural competency 
    • Exercise prescription 
    • Willingness to learn 
    • Insurance and billing 
  • Areas for improvement:
    • Tech Integration 
    • Clinical Research 
    • Professionalism Advocacy APTA  

Strategies to Achieve Professional Goals

  • Electives:
    • PHYT 875 Advanced Orthopedic Assessment and Intervention 
    • PHYT 874 Topic In Sports Physical Therapy 
    • PHYT870: Integrated Clinical Experience with Ortho Resident Sammy Chakir 
    • PHYT 872: Teacher-Scholar (For Musculoskeletal 2)
  • Other experience:
    • Attended Running Symposium at UNC 2024
    • Certified Athletic Trainer, Licensed Athletic Trainer at Durham Academy 2019-2024
    • Administrative Assistant at Upright Athlete Physical Therapy 2024
    • UNC Student Physical Therapy Association – Vice President 
    • Athletic Training Student:  UNC-Softball, UNC-Club Sports, UNC-Football, UNC-Track & Field 

Products:

Diversity and Inter-professionalism:

  • I have had multiple opportunities to volunteer in diversity and interprofessional, from volunteering during the first DPT Exploratory Day focused on extending reach to applicants and students from underrepresented first-generation college students. Being part of SPTA DEI and vice-president of SPTA, I have been fortunate to volunteer with the Miracle League, an organization providing opportunities to individuals with disabilities with baseball. I have been involved in volunteering for free sports screening for local high school students during my neuro-rotation. Moreover, I have been able to interact with other disciplines, including SLP and OT, during my acute-care rotation. I have been able to volunteer at SHAC Student Health Action Coalition (Pro Bono Clinic) during my time at UNC, which has allowed me to help those who might not have had access to physical therapy and other health care services. Lastly, I have enjoyed meeting other health professionals through IPE throughout the program.

Reflective Statement:

  • I am honored to have grown as not only a professional but also an individual who cares for the well-being of not just my patients but those who do not have the same resources to access high-quality healthcare. I aim to continue to grow as a clinician in order to provide the best care. I want to thank all the supporting staff at UNC, my advisors, mentors, and co-workers, including all my previous CIs, and a huge thank you to my family and friends for all their support throughout my time in physical therapy school.

2 responses so far




2 Responses to “Morales Santos, Ricardo”

  1.   Lisa Johnstonon 03 Jun 2024 at 1:04 pm

    Ricardo- It has been a pleasure! Thank you for sharing your portfolio as it is wonderful to see some of your accomplishments. Good luck to you in your next phase! Lisa

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