Location - St. Luke's Hospital, Bethlehem 
 
Course Description - This course will describe the St. Luke's comprehensive spine program as an administrative case report of the utilization of physical therapists as first contact providers. Attendees will understand why utilization of physical therapists as first contact providers is essential and why physical therapy is the best fit to help change the health care paradigm. 
Speakers - Dr. Stephen Kareha, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, ATC, CMP, CSCS; Dr. Giovanni Stracco, PT, DPT, OCS, CMP

Dr. Kareha graduated from Gettysburg College with a Bachelor's degree in Health and Exercise science with an emphasis in Athletic Training. While at Gettysburg College, he was a 3-time Academic All-American in wrestling. He received his DPT degree from Arcadia University and then completed his postgraduate training at Allied Services in Scranton, PA, with an emphasis on back and neck injuries and vertigo. He earned a doctor of Philosophy at Nova Southeastern University with his research focusing on best practices in physical therapy. He is a board certified clinical specialists in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and a certified Athletic Trainer. Dr. Kareha is also an APTA credentialed clinical instructor, certified strength and conditioning specialist, and a certified Mulligan Practitioner. Throughout his years of practice, he has developed a particular interest in treating people with back, neck, TMJ, shoulder, and chronic pain. He evaluates each patient as a whole to determine the movement diagnosis and best plan of care to help them most efficiently and effectively reach their goals. Dr. Kareha is Director of the St. Luke's University Health Network Orthopedic Residency and facilitates the professional development of all rehabilitation professionals throughout the St. Luke's University Health Network. 

Dr. Stracco received his DPT from Arcadia University. He has treated orthopedics with a focus in spine pathology and manual therapy for over a decade. Dr. Stracco is the Spine Program Manager for St. Luke's Physical Therapy where he works to educate staff and students on treatment of the spine and associated injuries. He believes in a hands-on approach to patient care and the importance of Evidence Based Practice. Dr. Stracco enjoys exercising and has been a martial arts practitioner for over 20 years. He is a father of three and loves nothing more than spending time with his family.