Joe Viechnicki

PETERSBURG, AK (2009-11-30) A newly remodeled physical therapy department at the Petersburg Medical Center was on display this month. The medical center in September completed a $30,000 remodeling project. The work adds 200 square feet of space and gives the physical therapy department two private rooms and a large common area where patients can use exercise and weight equipment. The medical center reports patient numbers have been growing steadily for the physical therapy department over the past decade, and the new space will help accommodate more patients. The medical center says the department handled 1,800 patient visits during the latest fiscal year.
The newly remodeled area also has some new therapy equipment. One new machine will help patients work on strength in their arms and shoulders. The remodeling project cost 30-thousand dollars, with two thirds of that coming from the Rasmusson Foundation. Other contributions came from the local Elks and Emblem clubs, AT&T, and several private donors. Leslie Schwartz has been working as a physical therapist with the medical center since 1988 and says the new space will help.