Beth Whitehead

About Beth

Beth's journey into physical therapy began in childhood, watching her father receive treatment for a back condition — and in that moment, she recognized a profession that perfectly aligned with her interests in movement, education, and psychology. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Physical Education, and Psychology from Judson College in 1969, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1972, and a Master of Public Health, also from UAB, in 1980.

A pivotal turn came when her mother suffered a fatal heart attack, deepening Beth's commitment to disease prevention and community health. That focus has shaped HealthActions ever since. Her practice philosophy draws from U.S. Public Health frameworks — including Healthy People 2010 and Healthy Communities guidelines — and reflects a belief that true community health encompasses economics, education, government, policy development, infrastructure, and above all, leadership.

Beth is a long-standing member of the American Physical Therapy Association (Private Practice, Orthopaedic, and Research Sections), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and The Physical Therapy Learning Institute. She remains optimistic about the progress being made to address public health challenges across Alabama and the surrounding region.