Cozad Community Health System (CCHS) is proud to announce that Kate Brummer, OTD, OTR/L, has earned her certification as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) after completing a rigorous 135 hour training course. With this advanced credential, Kate is now qualified to treat lymphedema of any body part using Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), the gold standard for lymphedema management.
Lymphedema is a chronic, protein rich swelling that can occur due to genetic factors (primary lymphedema) or as a result of lymph node removal or damage following cancer treatment (secondary lymphedema). Through CDT, patients receive comprehensive care involving manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, skin care, and exercise to help reduce swelling and improve quality of life.
“I’ve been treating patients with lymphedema for the past 10 years, and it was becoming more and more apparent that further education was needed,” said Kate. “I learned so much with this class, including more effective manual lymph drainage techniques, proper wrapping methods, and how to accurately measure patients for compression garments.”
Kate has served as an Occupational Therapist for 13 years and has been part of the CCHS team for 5 years, working across inpatient, outpatient, home health, and school-based settings. She believes this additional certification will make a meaningful difference for local patients, especially those recovering from cancer treatment or managing chronic swelling.
“While lymphedema is a chronic condition that requires continual management, it can be treated effectively to make it more manageable,” Kate explained. “I am looking forward to continuing to serve this population and help patients gain confidence in managing their condition.”
Patients seeking lymphedema treatment can talk with their provider about a referral to Cozad Community Physical Therapy. While most treatment sessions will be conducted in the outpatient clinic, home health options are available for homebound patients.
Kate added, “I am so grateful to CCHS for letting me take this extensive class to expand my skills and knowledge related to lymphedema. I’m excited to bring this specialized service to our community, especially since I believe I am the only Certified Lymphedema Therapist in Dawson County.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Cozad Community Physical Therapy at (308) 784-2231.