New NAU hybrid program helps fill health care gaps [Video]

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (AZFamily) — Health care shortages are an issue across the country, hitting rural communities especially hard. However, a new hybrid program at Northern Arizona University aims to give students more access to fill those healthcare gaps.

While finals are approaching for most students, for some at NAU it’s their first time stepping onto campus thanks to the new hybrid doctor of physical therapy program.

Sara Thomasson is one of those students and didn’t let being a new mom stop her from pursuing her goal of being a physical therapist.

“Just being able to make a difference in someone’s life it’s not something that everyone chooses to do and so I think it’s important to realize the impact that we can have,” she said.

Being in the first cohort of NAU’s new program helps with balance.

“I just want her to see that she is important to me no matter how many times I have to go to work. …