221: How To Start A Wellness Program For People With Neurologic Conditions: All Your Questions Answered!
Jul 8, 2024
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Physical therapist Lauren Young discusses starting a wellness program for people with neurologic conditions, focusing on accessible exercise classes, membership models, and pricing. Key takeaways include structuring classes for different ability levels, consistent revenue from monthly memberships, and the importance of adaptability in business growth.
Starting a wellness program can be initiated by renting space from existing gyms or studios.
Structuring classes for different ability levels ensures safety and effectiveness in group settings.
Monthly membership models provide consistent revenue and client commitment in wellness programs.
Pricing for specialized services should reflect their premium nature, supporting sustainable growth in the long term.
Deep dives
Establishing a Mobile Practice for Neurologic Wellness
Lauren Young, a physical therapist with a specialization in neurologic diagnoses, opened a concierge mobile practice called 'Neuro Elite Physical Therapy.' She saw a need for more intensive therapy beyond insurance limits due to the chronic nature of many neurologic conditions. Young emphasizes a proactive approach to healthcare, focusing on creating individualized wellness programs for conditions like Parkinson's, MS, and ataxia.
Designing Effective Neurologic Exercise Classes
In discussing how to structure group neurologic exercise classes, the episode highlighted the importance of tailoring classes to individuals' varying abilities and needs. It emphasized following research-backed exercise principles and offering both consistency and novel experiences in class formats. Assessments and consultations play a crucial role in ensuring participants are in the appropriate class level, taking into account cognitive abilities, physical limitations, and balance challenges.
Growing Class Offerings and Addressing Staffing Concerns
Starting with smaller class sizes to provide personalized attention and safety, the episode details the progression of class levels from basic to more advanced based on individual needs. The discussion also touches upon managing class sizes and ensuring that the staffing adequately supports the diverse needs of participants. The importance of flexible programming to address varying levels of physical and cognitive abilities within the class setting was also stressed.
Maintaining Quality and Personalized Care in Group Settings
The conversation delved into the challenges of maintaining quality care in group exercise settings. It recommended clear communication with participants about class levels, goals, and potential progression. Adaptability, thoughtful class design, and a systematic approach to class themes such as mobility, balance, strength, and flexibility were advocated as essential components for successful neurologic exercise classes.
Assessment Methods for Cognitive Function in Exercise Classes
The focus on cognitive assessments within group classes highlighted the use of tools like the Trail Making Test to evaluate cognitive function and guide program development. The flexibility and sensitivity of assessments such as the Trail Making Test in gauging participants' cognitive abilities and engagement levels were underscored for tailoring instruction and providing targeted cognitive support within the exercise setting.
Instructor Qualifications and Pricing Strategy
The podcast discusses the importance of having physical therapists as instructors for classes geared towards bridging the gap between physical therapy and community exercise. The host emphasizes the value of having qualified professionals present in classes to address specific orthopedic concerns and provide tailored assistance. By pricing the membership according to the quality of instruction, the podcast highlights the significance of offering classes taught by expert physical therapists.
Membership Structure and Growth Planning
The episode explores the evolution of the membership model to ensure consistent revenue for sustainable operations. By transitioning to a monthly membership system based on class frequency, the podcast underscores the importance of financial stability for program continuity. Additionally, the discussion delves into the strategic planning required for class expansion, including the need for multiple instructors as class sizes grow, and the considerations around adjusting pricing to support program development.
In this enlightening discussion, we have an open conversation with physical therapist Lauren Young, PT, DPT, CSRS, NCS, who reached out to Claire with a number of questions. She was willing to come on the podcast so everyone can benefit from the information. Lauren started a mobile neuro practice in February 2024 and is looking to develop group wellness classes to increase access to specialty services.
Claire answers the following questions:
1. How do you make exercise classes accessible for all levels of abilities in a group setting?
2. How did you start your wellness program, particularly regarding staffing and class structure?
3. How do you structure her membership model and pricing?
4. Looking back, is there anything Claire wishes she had done differently when first starting?
Key takeaways include:
1. Renting space from existing gyms or studios is a smart way to start without heavy upfront costs. 2. Structuring classes for different ability levels is crucial for safety and effectiveness. 3. A monthly membership model provides consistent revenue and commitment from clients. 4. Pricing should reflect the premium nature of specialized services, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. 5. Slow, steady growth allows for learning and adaptation as the business evolves.
This conversation offers a wealth of practical advice for PTs looking to expand into wellness programming for neurological patients, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, client-focused services, and sustainable business practices.
Find out more about Lauren Young here: NeuroElite Physical Therapy www.NeuroElitePT.com
