Pictured above, to the right, that’s Kris Greco, MPT, doing what she does best – helping a patient regain functional mobility and independence. In this interview, Kris explains what brought her to RVNAhealth; why she finds it gratifying to share the LSVT Big therapy program with patients living with Parkinson’s disease; and why you might not want to get in a rhyming contest with her.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up on Long Island, in Huntington Station, NY. I now live in New Fairfield, CT.
How long have you been with RVNAhealth? Three years.
What is your current role at RVNAhealth? I am a staff physical therapist and split my time between home care and our outpatient clinic, the RVNAhealth Rehabilitation & Wellness Center.
What brought you here? Given my acute rehabilitation background, I was drawn to home care for the diverse patient population served and the ability to work with individuals, in their home environments, to maximize their functional mobility and independence. With the evolution of healthcare delivery dictating shorter inpatient rehabilitation stays, many clients now require a significant amount of skilled therapy once discharged home, and I find it extremely fulfilling to be part of the team providing this service.
I have recently had the opportunity to join our outpatient team as well, and am enjoying challenging my patients at a higher level in that environment. I have a particular interest in treating clients recovering from neurologic insult, such as stroke or head injury, as well as those with neurologic diagnoses like Parkinson’s Disease.
I decided to seek a position specifically with RVNAhealth because of the extremely positive reputation that the agency has built in this community and the smaller size of the organization, which allows for close communication and relationships between team members.
What form of PT do you use for patients with Parkinson’s Disease? I have completed continuing education in LSVT Big, which is a treatment approach aimed at maintaining and maximizing function in individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease. I am very fond of this approach because it is based on well-researched and verified scientific principles while incorporating important functional skills required in everyday life.
What is your favorite part of your job? I’m a “people person” – I enjoy the interpersonal relationships with my clients.
Do you have a favorite RVNAhealth moment or story? I can’t really recall a specific moment, but I do have clients who have returned to services several times over the years, and I find it very meaningful to be a continuing contributor to their health and well-being.
What do you love to do when you’re not working? I enjoy cooking and, along with my family, like to bike and kayak.
What is your hidden talent? I’m good at writing in rhyme, although I haven’t found many practical applications for this skill.
What would you do if you won the lottery? Travel!
What’s your favorite book? I like to read historical fiction; my favorite book is The Invisible Bridge.
If you have a band, what would it be called? Harmonic Motion
If you had a racehorse, what would you name it? Rapid Cadence
If you could only eat one food for a year, what would it be? Crispy Brussel Sprouts.
