Inpatient OB PT: How to Overcome the Barriers Panel

Building on the success of last year’s PPSIG and SSIG co-sponsored webinar series (Part 1, Part 2) on Acute/Inpatient OB PT, this follow-up event brings together a larger panel of clinicians who have successfully navigated the challenges of establishing inpatient OB physical therapy services. In 2024, we heard contrasting stories—some hospital systems championed these programs, while others faced significant resistance.

This time, our panel will share advice from the trenches—the strategies, arguments, and practical steps that helped them overcome barriers and gain institutional support. Join us to learn proven approaches, hear real-world success stories, and take away actionable insights for advancing Acute OB PT in your own hospital system.

Resources

Panelists

Elizabeth Northrop, PT, DPT

Board-Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist

Program Coordinator & Acute Care Physical Therapist (Orlando, FL)

Beth Northrup is a board-certified women’s health clinical specialist with expertise in obstetric physical therapy and advancing evidence-based care for birthing individuals. She practices in acute care at Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital, one of the nation’s largest perinatal centers, where she has expanded physical therapy services for pregnant and postpartum patients and strengthened continuity of care across settings. Beth also serves as Program Coordinator for the University of Central Florida/Orlando Health Women’s Health Physical Therapy Residency, designing innovative training across both acute and outpatient environments. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Healthcare Administration to further improve access to comprehensive maternal care.

Talya Krumholz, PT, DPT

Outpatient Pelvic Health & Orthopedic Physical Therapist (Washington, D.C.)

Talya Krumholz is an outpatient pelvic health and orthopedic PT with specialties in performing arts rehabilitation, pregnancy and postpartum care, sports medicine, and gender-affirming care. She practices at George Washington University Hospital, where she provides comprehensive care across diverse pelvic and musculoskeletal populations.

 Savannah Colhour, OTR/L, CNS

Senior Occupational Therapist (Washington, D.C.)

Savannah Colhour is a senior occupational therapist with eight years of experience in acute care at George Washington University Hospital. She works across ICUs, MedSurg, and the Emergency Department and recently helped develop and launch the hospital’s new C-Section Protocol.

Kelsey Sliter, PT, DPT

Acute Care & Inpatient Rehabilitation Physical Therapist (Kansas City, KS)

Kelsey Sliter is an acute care and inpatient rehab physical therapist specializing in maternal health, trauma, orthopedic, neuro, and burn rehabilitation. Originally from Tulsa, she earned her bachelor’s in Health and Exercise Science from the University of Oklahoma and her DPT from the University of Kansas in 2020. She has practiced at The University of Kansas Health System since graduating.

Nancy Cullinane, PT - PPSIG Moderator