We recently caught up with Lauren Arcidi Varney, our new Director of Outpatient Services at Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital-Bradford. Lauren came on board as Director in July 2024 but has worked at Whittier in various other capacities throughout her career. We spoke with Lauren about her background, her goals for the department, and what inspires her on a daily basis.
How many years have you been at Whittier?
I’ve been working for Whittier since I was 14, stamping mail in the corporate office, 22 years!
Where did you start your career?
At Whittier! I started as a rehab aide, and then became a licensed occupational therapist (OT) in 2011. I left briefly to see what else was out there and quickly returned after realizing the high level of patient care that Whittier provides, along with the employee culture, that is not found everywhere. Whittier truly takes a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.
What got you interested in outpatient therapy?
I originally went to school for business, but after shadowing Laurie Faust and Bob Iannaco at the old location on Summer Street, I decided I wanted to become a therapist! I knew I wanted to be able to interact with patients and be directly involved in their care. I love the pace of outpatient therapy and have always enjoyed that setting the most.
What is your area of specialty?
I love treating orthopedic patients and especially working with hands and elbows.
What type of patients do you work with?
My new position doesn’t allow much time for direct patient care, but I have one long-standing patient who I still see. Therapy is integral to his quality of life and we have built a great rapport. I’m not ready to give them ALL up yet!
What are your goals for the Outpatient Department?
My vision is to see this program flourish and thrive as much as possible. I want an active, busy and accessible program that treats all adult outpatient diagnoses.
Do you feel that you get a level of experience at Whittier not found elsewhere?
We have MANY therapists who have been with us for a long time and who are highly skilled. Many have additional certifications beyond their licenses. Their experience and wisdom gained over the years really shines through in their treatments.
What do you enjoy most about the team at Whittier?
Our team at Whittier doesn’t feel like a team. It feels like a family. We work, eat and laugh together. We’re efficient, while enjoying each other’s company. We respect each other. It’s nice to look forward to work each day and know that your “family” is there to support you.
What would you say to recent graduates about considering a career at Whittier?
A career at Whittier is unlike anything you will find elsewhere. As I mentioned, your co-workers become part of your inner circle. You bond through shared experiences. There is a culture of taking care of each other that I have not seen at other places. I also mentioned the level of care. I have worked at other facilities and I am proud to say that Whittier has been, and still is, VERY patient-centered in our operations.
Do you have any advice to give to patients and families when they need outpatient services?
I truly feel we have some of THE BEST outpatient staff available. If you need outpatient services, call and talk with us. We are more than capable of assisting you and helping you get the care that you need. If, on the off chance you need something that we are not able to provide, nine times out of ten we are able to refer you to a reputable source for your needs.
Do you have any success stories that stand out in your memory?
I get very attached to patients. There are definitely success stories that I LOVE to talk about. One story revolves around a patient who had a shoulder replacement. He was a former Whittier employee and told me the only place he wanted to go for his therapy was Whittier. He worked hard, did his home exercise program and was able to make a full recovery and throw a baseball for his grandson by the time baseball season came around!
In closing, what inspires you?
Well, my family honestly. My grandfather’s story about how and why he started Whittier, and how my father, uncles, brothers, and cousin are continuing the legacy.
Beyond that, the patients inspire me. I want to help them succeed and reach their full potential. I want patients to be able to maximize their outcomes and be able to return to doing what they love. Sometimes that’s walking their daughter down the aisle at her wedding. Sometimes it’s holding their grandchild or traveling with their spouse again. It really all boils down to doing what we can to help patients live their lives to their full potential.
Where you receive your outpatient care is YOUR decision. Choose Whittier for one-on-one therapy, convenient appointment hours, and prompt evaluations. Come visit us and see what we can offer you.
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