CU PM&R is excited to introduce our new Chief Residents! Today, we are spotlighting incoming Chief Resident Jeffrey Kepple, MD.

What made you want to pursue a career in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation?
I have always been interested in the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, but I did not make the decision to pursue PM&R until I understood the holistic care and teamwork approach physiatrists implement in their daily practice. Regardless of their medical condition or situation, I find meaning and joy in optimizing function and optimizing mobility for my patients. My goal is to get each patient back to their desired activity and get re-integrated in their communities; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is by far the best way to achieve that goal.

What made you want to choose CU PM&R for residency?
The people. CU has cultivated a level of camaraderie, collaboration, and community that is truly palpable. I have found incredible mentors in my field and built amazing friendships that I am certain will last beyond residency. I also chose this program because of the national reputation of excellence and dedication to advancing physiatry. I believe this is truly a unique program that facilitates growth in a collaborative and supportive manner. 

How would you describe your time as a resident at CU PM&R so far?
I have grown more both as a physiatrist and a leader more in the past couple of years than I could have ever imagined. This program has supported the growth of my skills in physiatry immensely while fostering my growth as a leader. Due to the support of the program, I have also been able to pursue new projects of interest such as being a Co-Medical Director for a national wheelchair rugby tournament! It has been amazing getting to work with my co-residents and explore everything that Colorado has to offer. 

What are your goals as our new Chief Resident? What skills do you hope to develop as Chief?
My main goal is to continue to foster the incredible community that has been built here at CU PM&R. I plan to not only do this through continued recruiting of amazing future residents, but also promoting more connections with alumni to increase collaboration of learning and research across the country. Additionally, I hope to continue to build more elective rotations to promote individualized learning opportunities regardless of the subspecialty of PM&R residents are pursuing. 

What are your goals after you complete residency at CU?
I plan to pursue a Sports Medicine Fellowship after completing residency here at CU PM&R. My goal is to be a sports medicine physician who cares for a variety of sport populations. I hope to be a team physician down the road as I have a special interest in overhead athletics like baseball. Also, I have a unique interest in caring for adaptive athletes and have a career goal to be a team physician for both Olympics and Paralympic sports. 

Anything else you would like to share?
I feel so appreciative to be at such an incredible program with top tier training and such an amazing community. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions about our program and community here at CU PM&R!