2024 Health Care Champions Specialty Provider: Robert Baker

With 23 years’ experience as a physical therapist in long-term health care settings, Robert Baker says his mission transcends mere treatment – it’s about restoring the patient’s quality of life physically, mentally and emotionally.

“My biggest desire is to be able to improve someone’s function,” he says.

Baker, who has worked at Citizens Memorial since 2001, says he approaches physical therapy holistically; empowering his patients to be active participants is a key to his success.

“Although each patient has a different level of need, my goal is to help the patient return to the same quality of lifestyle prior to the health incident,” he says.

“Helping the patient understand the mechanism of injury or why a chosen treatment is necessary is key to motivating the patient to achieve the goals set forth in the treatment plan.”

Ellis Hall, director of Rehab Services at Citizens Memorial Hospital, says Baker has a great way of connecting with patients and making physical therapy something to look forward to.

“He oftentimes goes the extra mile to bring them a special drink or snack to make them feel special,” Hall says. “He also tries to find what motivates a patient to get back to doing what they love and he incorporates that into their rehab program.”

Hall says he’ll often walk into the rehab gym and see Baker’s patients bowling on a Wii, practicing with a fishing pole or playing dominos while standing up. “Patients start having fun, not realizing they are doing therapy,” Hall says.

“Practicing in the community in which I live, I take pride in helping my patients regain independence and return home, if possible,” Baker says. “I will often run into a former patient or a patient’s family member while shopping or in restaurants. It is always gratifying to see the progress they have made.”

He adds that sometimes the journey to wellness can be difficult, and relating to his patients on a personal level can make all the difference, whether it’s bringing someone a drink, working with their family members for added encouragement, or helping them navigate health insurance needs. 

“Going the extra mile is important to me to ensure that the patient feels like more than just a number but actually has a part in their health care,” he says.

In 2009, Baker became the site coordinator for Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation, and he joined as a clinical instructor for physical therapy students in 2011. In addition to his role at Citizens Memorial, Baker has been an active member in his church for over 20 years, serving as a board member, preaching, teaching Sunday school, and being involved with mission work. He and his wife have also served as foster parents for over 11 years, ultimately adopting three children.