Dr. Erin Hayden, PT, DPT, OCS

Dr. Hayden is running for Delegate at Large in the 2023 APTA Colorado Elections. 

Dr. Erin Hayden is a residency-trained, board certified orthopedic clinical specialist. She works in adolescent sports medicine at Children’s Hospital Colorado, pursuing her long-standing passion for rehabilitation and early injury prevention. She has been involved with advanced professional education through teaching and clinical mentorship, especially within orthopedic and sports residency programs at Children’s Hospital Colorado, University of Southern California, and University of California San Francisco. Although she enjoys treating all orthopedic and sports related injuries, she has a special passion for the health of the performing artist. She has been actively involved in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), including serving as a previous Colorado (CO) Delegate and current member of the CO APTA Nominating Committee. Prior to Children’s Hospital Colorado, she was an Assistant Professor of Clinical Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California, recognized for her contributions in clinical care, interdisciplinary research, teaching, & commitment to the profession. She had the privilege of serving the California (CA) Physical Therapy Association as a Delegate, Greater Los Angeles District Chairperson and CA Nominating Committee Member.

Identify and describe current or previous leadership positions and/or work experiences that make you qualified for this position:
I have had the privilege of serving our profession at the local and national levels, including being a Colorado Delegate and member of the CO APTA Nominating Committee. Previously, I have been a California Delegate, Chair of the Greater Los Angeles District and California Physical Therapy Association Nominating Committee Member. I have an eagerness to connect with others, which is valuable for developing and brainstorming ideas that will help advance our profession.

What strengths do you bring to the Colorado Chapter and what strengths would you bring to the position you are running for?
One of my strongest assets is my commitment to achieve goals and help cultivate visions and passions along the way. I truly enjoy meeting new people, building relationships and bringing individuals and ideas together. These characteristics are key to bringing forward concepts and motions from CO members to the House of Delegates. My preferred style of communication is to listen first, with consideration and investigation into multiple aspects of issues prior to decision making. I would be honored to serve as a delegate and represent Colorado PTs and PTAs with integrity and positivity.

What are weaknesses of the Colorado Chapter and what improvements would you like to make?
The Colorado Chapter has strong leaders with a prominent presence within the American Physical Therapy Association. The challenges, as with many chapters, are how to increase awareness about the value of the Chapter and increase involvement at the district and state levels. Membership engagement is crucial to help advance our profession and understands the needs of the community. I believe we can improve communication amongst members to enhance this engagement.