Like all other occupations, a physical therapist assistant is required to acquire formal physical therapist assistant education, followed by licensure in order to qualify to practice as a professional in this field.
A physical therapist assistant works under the supervision of a professional PT to provide rehabilitation and therapeutic services to people suffering from injury, illness or any other disability that limit their daily functional activities. They monitor the patient's developmental progress, teach them how to use the required medical devices and the exercises they are required to carry out themselves.
Educational Requirements
An associate's degree (or a postsecondary program) by an accredited college is the first step in physical therapist assistant education and is required by most states in the US. There were 276 related programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), as of July 2011, with most of them conferring associate's degree.
Associate's degree
It's a two year degree program, usually divided into five semesters. The curriculum is designed to provide academic course work as well as laboratory classes and clinical experience. Physiology, algebra, therapeutic techniques, healthcare law, rehabilitation procedures are a few of the many courses taught to students during this program. Clinical practicum involves first aid training and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification (CPR). Clinical experience is a vital pillar of physical therapist assistant education and as per US Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is considered as major requirement by employers.
Licensure
Most states require you to obtain a license to practice in a medical facility. However, Colorado and Hawaii do not. Completion of a program by a CAPTE accredited college is generally required by most states; however some licensing requirements vary state to state.
Candidates are required to pass National Physical Therapy Assistant Examination, which is usually a state administered exam in order to obtain a license.
Continuing education credits
PTAs may also be required to obtain continuing education credits may be for license renewal or additional certifications. This gives them the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skill set and makes them an important part of their team.
Specialization
You may also choose to specialize in their area of interest. Such as aquatic, pediatric, geriatric, etc. It is a certification program to receive the Certificate of Advanced Proficiency and is offered by the APTA. It has the following prerequisites:
- APTA membership
- During the last 5 years, 2000 hours of relevant work experience and 60 hours of continuing education credits
- Reference letters from the employers
- Proof of contribution to the field
Licensure is usually the last step in the long process of physical therapist assistant education to professionally practice with a PT. Additional educational credits and specialty certifications are usually optional but add to your profile and make you a vital part of your team.
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