At Eisenhower Health, we believe that the key to success is the people who make up our team. It’s our dedication to patient care, collaboration, and continuous improvement that has allowed us to make a real difference in the lives of the people we serve. One such success story is that of Todd McDonald, MS, OTR/L, CCM, CSRS, MRMC, a remarkable occupational therapist whose journey from new graduate to director is an inspiring testament to hard work, perseverance, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on others.
Todd’s career at Eisenhower Health is a perfect example of what it means to start from the bottom, work your way up, and embrace the opportunities for growth and leadership that arise along the way.
From Therapist to Director – The Path to Leadership
Todd’s journey began 10 years ago, fresh out of college and filled with excitement for what the future held. Like many new graduates, Todd was eager to put his education and passion for occupational therapy into action. He started his career working primarily with children, providing therapeutic support.
After completing his degree, Todd joined our therapy department at Eisenhower Health as a per diem occupational therapist. Right from the beginning, Todd’s approach to patient care was exceptional. His love for helping people achieve milestones and overcome obstacles was evident in everything he did. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, Todd quickly adapted to the collaborative culture at Eisenhower Health, which is one of the cornerstones of our success.
Todd’s passion for patient care and his natural ability to connect with his patients and colleagues quickly made him a valuable asset to the team. Over the years, his reputation for excellence grew as he consistently went above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of his patients. His commitment to improving the lives of those he worked with didn’t stop at his own caseload; he became a go-to mentor for many of his colleagues, especially new graduates who were just starting their careers.
Todd’s ability to share his knowledge, provide guidance, and foster a sense of collaboration within his department did not go unnoticed. His leadership skills were evident, and his ability to mentor new therapists helped him stand out as someone ready to take on a larger role. As Todd’s career advanced, so did his leadership responsibilities. He eventually transitioned from a practicing therapist to a leadership position overseeing seven departments within rehabilitation services.
Building Leadership Through Mentorship and Passion for Patient Care
One of the key elements that contributed to Todd’s rise to leadership was his passion for mentoring. He believes in the power of mentorship guiding and supporting others as they navigate the challenges of the therapy field. Todd has always taken the time to ensure that his colleagues, especially new graduates, have the resources and support they need to succeed. His leadership philosophy centers around the idea that when individuals succeed, the entire team succeeds.
Mentorship is a key part of the culture at Eisenhower Health. We offer students opportunities to volunteer in our therapy department, with 30% of our current team members having started their careers this way.
For Todd, the most rewarding aspect of his work is knowing that he’s made a difference in the lives of his patients. Seeing moments of transformation, where a patient reaches a major milestone or overcomes a significant challenge, continues to inspire Todd to give his best every day.
The emotional stories of families whose lives have been positively impacted by the care Todd and his team provide are a source of constant motivation. For Todd, there is no greater reward than knowing he has helped someone reclaim their independence and quality of life. These patient success stories keep him passionate about his work and focused on making an impact in the therapy field.
Why Choose Eisenhower Health?
At Eisenhower Health, we are proud of the environment we’ve cultivated, one that encourages growth, collaboration, and mentorship. We understand that every career is unique, and we are committed to providing opportunities for our employees to develop their skills and take on new challenges. Our therapy department is a place where you can grow as both a clinician and a leader, no matter where you are in your career.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, an experienced therapist, or someone looking for a change, Eisenhower Health provides a supportive, collaborative environment where you can thrive. We take pride in fostering a culture of mentorship and lifelong learning. For students interested in gaining hands-on experience, we offer opportunities to volunteer in our therapy department. Many of our current team members, including Todd, began as volunteers before transitioning into full-time roles.
In addition to our focus on professional development, we also understand the importance of work-life balance. One of the unique benefits of working at Eisenhower Health is the seasonal flexibility we offer. Whether you love hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing in the beautiful desert surroundings, our seasonal flexibility allows you to enjoy a healthy work-life balance that’s hard to find elsewhere.
As technology continues to evolve, including the growing role of AI in health care, Eisenhower Health is committed to finding innovative ways to improve patient outcomes. However, at the heart of our care remains a human touch, something that our Rehabilitation Services team values deeply. We embrace the future of health care, but we never lose sight of the compassion and personal connection that is so critical to patient care.
Your Next Career Adventure Starts Here
At Eisenhower Health, we believe in offering more than just a job; we offer a chance to grow, develop, and make a real difference in the lives of our patients. We know that meaningful careers don’t happen by accident; they’re built on hard work, mentorship, and opportunities to advance. With generous benefits including up to a $5,000 sign-on bonus and relocation assistance*, we ensure that our employees feel valued and supported.
Living and working in the Coachella Valley offers unique opportunities to enjoy world-class dining, shopping, wellness amenities, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to take the next step in your therapy career or begin a new chapter in a fulfilling field, Eisenhower Health provides the ideal environment for your success.
If you’re ready to start your own career journey, we invite you to explore our open therapy positions. Visit our careers site today to apply and take the first step toward a rewarding career at Eisenhower Health. Your next big career move is just one click away!
*Sign-on bonus and relocation assistance are subject to change.
Originally posted on 3/28/2025
