Leading with Purpose
By Jeff Campagna

Can you share your full name, current role, and where you are originally from??

My name is Jeff Campagna and I am the Clinic Director and Physical Therapist at Phoenix Physical Therapy. I am originally from Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

What is your current position at Phoenix Physical Therapy, and what does a typical day look like for you as a Clinic Director?

My current position is the dual role of clinic director and full-time clinician. I typically begin my day at 7:00am and review the clinic schedule. I will start my day by treating patients and responding to emails. I perform evaluations and treatments while also overseeing staff, schedules, documentation quality, and clinic performance. My role also includes mentoring student physical therapists and building relationships with referral sources to better expand our services to the community.

What originally drew you to the field of physical therapy? Was there a specific moment or experience that influenced your decision?

I was drawn to physical therapy because it combines science, problem-solving, and the opportunity to help people improve their quality of life. I appreciate being active throughout the day and getting to spend an hour with each patient, which is not usually the case in other healthcare professions. I enjoy developing relationships with patients and guiding them through the recovery process, while helping them return to the activities that are important to them. I have a background in running, soccer, swimming, and triathlons, and love to help people get back to being active.

 What keeps you motivated today in your career, especially in a leadership role?

I am motivated every day by my patients. I am motivated to get my patients back to doing the things they love, and it only makes me work harder when they want to get back to a sport, hobby, work, or activity of daily living that is important to them. Sometimes people rely on me to help get them back to work to support themselves and their family or get back to a sporting event they have prepared all year for. I need to come prepared every day to give patients my best.

 As a Clinic Director, how do you balance patient care with leading and developing your team?

Patient care will always be my top priority when I am in the clinic. I believe that treating people with respect and giving them my best will result in a positive work environment. We aim to create a collaborative environment where we can deliver quality patient care while continuing to grow professionally as a team.

In what ways do you feel your work contributes to the Lancaster community?

Some of my favorite moments are the organic interactions I have with people in the community, whether it is playing pickleball, attending a run club, or simply walking around the neighborhood. Often these conversations lead to someone sharing a physical issue or limitation they’re dealing with, and I can offer guidance or help in addressing it. Moments like this make my work feel meaningful because I am not just treating patients in a clinic; I am helping neighbors and friends and contributing to the health and well-being of the Lancaster community.

What advice would you give to a young professional who is considering a career in healthcare or physical therapy?

My advice to a young professional who is considering physical therapy would be to spend time observing clinicians to understand both the rewards and challenges of the profession. It can be a fulfilling career combining critical thinking, science, and meaningful relationships to improve their quality of life. At the same time, it is important to be aware of some of the challenges such as cost of education, including student loans, and poor insurance reimbursements which can lead to higher productivity standards. If you are passionate about helping people stay active and committed to lifelong learning, physical therapy can be an incredibly rewarding career.

 What is one lesson you have learned so far in your career that has shaped how you lead and serve others?

One lesson that has shaped how I lead and serve others is that I would never ask an employee or coworker to do something that I wouldn’t do myself. Leading by example builds trust and credibility, and it shows that I’m willing to be part of the work, not just direct it. I’ve also learned the importance of respecting others’ time and effort. When people feel valued and supported, they tend to give more in return, leading to stronger dedication, better performance, and a more positive team environment.

What does the phrase “Next Generation” mean to you personally and professionally?

To me, the phrase “Next Generation” represents both growth and responsibility. Personally and professionally, I’m at a point in my career where I’m working to make a name for myself in the community and establish a reputation built on trust, consistency, and strong relationships. It also means embracing continuous learning, adapting to new ideas, and finding better ways to serve those around me. I see it as an opportunity to contribute fresh perspectives and form my own ideas while still respecting the foundation of those I have learned from before me.

Outside of work, what are you passionate about, and how do those passions influence the way you show up as a leader?

Outside of work, I’m passionate about staying active and spending time outdoors. Whether it’s exercising, playing sports, or just getting outside, it helps me stay energized, clear-headed, and balanced. I’m also passionate about treating others the right way; being approachable, making friends whenever I can, and building genuine relationships. 

As a leader, I try to create an environment where people feel comfortable, supported, and valued, because strong relationships are the foundation of any successful team. My active and positive mindset outside of work helps me lead with authenticity while keeping a calm, professional, and respectful approach to each day.

This conversation highlights the leadership, passion, and purpose behind Jeff Campagna’s work at Phoenix Physical Therapy. His journey reflects the impact of leading by example and the importance of helping individuals regain strength, confidence, and quality of life. Through his commitment to patient care and community connection, Jeff continues to play a vital role in promoting health, movement, and well-being across Lancaster