JANUARY 2026
What leaders have to say about Susie:
“Susie Nickels is an expert in her field of practice and epitomizes the gold standard for Physical Therapy. Since graduating from The Ohio State University, Susie has been practicing the art and skill of Physical Therapy for over 40 years. She has been a loyal employee to Premier Health for over 35 years. Fidelity has been fortunate to have her on staff for nearly 15 years of those years. Susie has served in many settings ranging from acute care, inpatient rehab, outpatient, and is concluding her professional career as a home health Physical Therapist. Susie has been an advocate for her profession, diligently maintaining ongoing education and skills necessary to intervene upon a variety of diagnoses with emphasis on the challenging population that is recovering post neurological injury. Susie has served as a clinical instructor, preceptor, lead therapist, and senior therapist where she has had the opportunity to bestow her wisdom upon other healthcare providers. She is a consummate professional who consistently goes above and beyond for every patient she sees while delivering high quality, skilled PT intervention and ensuring patients have the best outcomes possible. In her own words, “never say no Nickels” was destined to do whatever it takes to give her patients what they need to succeed. Despite the ever-changing arena of physical therapy delivery and medical record documentation, Susie has successfully navigated the challenges with grace. She is an expert in her craft and is a role model for the next generation of Physical Therapists to come. Susie has been an asset to Premier Health and will leave an immense void in the wake of her retirement from FHC.”
What does being a Gold Standard Award honoree mean to you?
I was so shocked, but proud to find out I was selected as it validates the over 40 years I have been in health care, and that I have earned the respect of my peers. I am deeply grateful for this award as I love my profession and the great team I work with.
What is a valuable lesson you’ve learned from working in your field?
That if you take the time to really listen to your patients without judgement, and show them empathy and that you are there to improve their lives, you will be rewarded 10 fold.
What guidance or words of wisdom would you share with those who want to follow a similar path to yours?
Listen to your patients, don’t judge, and always show kindness. Don’t let the craziness of our health care system drive you nuts. Take time for yourself as some of the folks we see and their hardships can be overwhelming – so be kind to yourself as well!
