In this News Brief:
July LIF Meeting Postponed
The Board of Directors has chosen to postpone the scheduled July 2020 Leadership Issues Forum in light of the ongoing pandemic. The board is monitoring the situation and reviewing a number of alternatives for holding large group meetings, including LIF and the Annual Meeting. We will keep you appraised of our progress on these important matters.
In adherence with our bylaws, we still need administrators to select funded delegates and administrators by May 1. Administrators, if you haven't received the email with instructions, or if you can't make the May 1 deadline, please contact us.
Thank you to the following jurisdictions who have already selected delegates and administrators:
Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West, Virginia, Virgin Islands, Wisconsin, and Wyoming
COVID-19 Updates
FSBPT has made a few recent announcements pertaining to adjustments around the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates.
FSBPT Meetings
FSBPT has cancelled all in-person meetings that were scheduled to take place in April, May, and June 2020.
This includes the Regulatory Training for Members and Board Staff, which was scheduled to take place June 19-21 in Alexandria, Virginia. FSBPT is taking steps to move some of the other meetings online. If you are a volunteer, there will be separate correspondence from your staff liaison with information on whether your meeting will be moved to an online format, postponed, or cancelled.
It merits repeating how much we appreciate the tremendous dedication we have seen from our volunteers and members. We sincerely thank you for your patience. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide you updates as we have them.
The April PT and PTA Exams
Prometric announced that they have decided to close their test centers through May 31, 2020, except for essential services programs. FSBPT is considered an essential services program, which means our candidates WILL be able to test. Prometric will be canceling appointments for individuals who are not part of essential services programs, which means that additional seats will be available soon for the candidates who are part of essential services programs.
While Prometric is doing everything they can to increase their capacity, we have to remember that they will not be able to open all of their centers at the same time. This is understandable given that the Covid-19 crisis is affecting different areas of the country in different ways and state and local regulations vary. For the test centers that do open, seat capacity will be reduced by 50 percent in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
All candidates currently eligible for the April 7 PTA exam or the April 28 PT exam received an updated Authorization to Test (ATT) letter with a testing window of May 1-31, 2020. Only those candidates currently approved for the April 7 or April 28 exams received this testing window.
FSBPT has allowed testing windows in response to other large-scale testing disruptions, such as natural disasters. However, please note, this does not represent a change in our testing policy or fixed-date format—the testing window is a necessary exception due to extraordinary circumstances.
Law Exams
The current window to take an FSBPT administered law exam is sixty days. We will temporarily expand this window to ninety days to allow for more flexibility in scheduling. All pending law exam candidates received an updated ATT letter with an eligibility start date of May 1, 2020. In addition, all newly approved law exam candidates will receive the ninety-day window until further notice is given.
FSBPT Exam Withdrawal/Re-registration Policy
FSBPT is waiving all refund and re-registration fees associated with the NPTE examinations until further notice. Therefore, if candidates want to cancel their exam registration and receive a refund or re-register for a future date, they may do so at no cost.
FAQs for Jurisdictions, Schools, and Candidates
We will continue to update FAQs for jurisdictions, schools, and candidates as this situation progresses.
The Slate for the 2020 Delegate Assembly Elections
The Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the slate for this year’s elections at the FSBPT Delegate Assembly. Candidate statements will appear in the Delegate Handbook, which will be available on the FSBPT website for membership review in the early fall.
The Nominating Committee will hold a Candidate Forum to introduce 2020 candidates for the Board of Directors and the Nominating Committee. Further, the Nominating Committee will be seeking candidates interested in being slated for the 2021 elections. These positions will include: Secretary, Treasurer, and the Director #1 position (this director must be a current member of a member board at the time of election). The qualifications for these positions can be found in the Board and Committee Job Descriptions.
Please join FSBPT in thanking the 2020 Nominating Committee Members, Timothy Vidale (Chair), Sherri Paru, and Debbie Kubota, for their work this year.
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| Director 2: Adrienne (Stacy) Price, GA | Director 2: Jeffrey Vinzant, AL | Director 3: Joni Kalis, OR |
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| Director 3: Charlotte Martin, LA | Nominating Committee Member: Joseph Shanley, NH | Nominating Committee Member: Jennifer Wissinger, OH |
PT Compact Rapid Growth May Prove Needed Alternative in Time of Crisis
The Physical Therapy Compact continues its rapid growth in 2020, in terms of both number of participating states and number of physical therapist and physical therapist assistants getting compact privileges. As of the end of March 2020, twenty states are now actively issuing and accepting compact privileges. The continued expansion of the PT Compact means the opportunity to get compact privileges is available to thousands more PTs and PTAs across the United States. In March alone, nearly 250 compact privileges were obtained, setting a new one month record.
In part, the growth indicates the value and advantages of compact privileges are being recognized. During the national health crisis, compact privileges also offer a fast process for PTs and PTAs who are eligible to seek the privilege to practice in other states without the need for the paperwork, score transfers, license verifications, and other requirements associated with a regular license. Given the additional stress put on boards at this time, the Compact may be a much needed alternative to get PTs and PTAs the ability to practice quickly and safely, and not just on a temporary basis.
WEBINAR: Get the Latest Information about the PT Compact
FSBPT, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and the PT Compact hosted a one-hour webinar on Thursday, April 2, providing updates on the current status and future of the PT Compact. They discussed the implementation status of current PT Compact member states, the 2020 legislative outlook of potential new states, the resolution of the Medicare issue, and more. The webinar provides valuable information for those in current PT Compact member states, those states considering legislation, and those states that will join in the future. The recording of the webinar is now available.
Members Thank Volunteers during National Volunteer Week
As part of National Volunteer Week, FSBPT Members shared their gratitude for FSBPT's many volunteers.
“The FSBPT is enriched by an active membership and the invaluable contributions of the volunteers supporting the work of the organization. Each of our jurisdictions are made better through their efforts. My sincere appreciation to all volunteers, past, present, and future!” - Michelle Sigmund-Gaines, Administrator, Oregon Board of Physical Therapy
“I've met the most amazing people through volunteering and I am inspired by all the good things they accomplish. Thanks to our volunteers!” - Andrew Mix, Member, Idaho State Physical Therapy Licensure Board
“To all the brilliant, hardworking, and cheeky volunteers serving on the EDC-PTA. Thank you for all the intense work you have done this past year to keep everyone safe in the clinic. Keep tearing it up and having fun!” - Heather Van Grootheest, FSBPT Associate Member
“FSBPT volunteers - the lifeblood of our organization.” - Ruggie Canizares, FSBPT Treasurer
“Thank you for everything you do for our organizations and on behalf of public protection. We would not exist as an organization without you, and we wish you and your families health and happiness throughout the entire year!” - William Hatherill, FSBPT CEO
“Volunteers are so essential to the FSBPT mission of protecting the public!! Thank you all for the expertise, enthusiasm, and dedication you bring to every interaction!” - Dave Relling, FSBPT Vice President
“The Federation was born from the efforts of volunteers. The Federation continues to thrive due to the efforts of its volunteers. Everyone from our volunteers to our employed staff has plentiful reasons to be proud of the collective accomplishment of the FSBPT. Thank you to every individual who has guided FSBPT to being the wonderfully effective organization it has become.” - J. Scott Stephens, FSBPT Honorary Member
“To all who serve the FSBPT as volunteers, know how much of a difference you make in the lives of others—both in large scale work and accomplishments but many times in small yet very meaningful ways. We thank you for your service and giving of yourselves!”
- Peter Petrone, FSBPT Associate Member
“FSBPT volunteers are an amazing breed. They work long hours, contribute amazing thoughts, ideas, and products. They willingly share their intellect and passion and they truly believe in the mission of the Federation and how it benefits the people we serve. Thank you for your willingness to share and your caring spirit. Wishing you all good health! We look forward to seeing you soon!” - Nancy Kirsch, FSBPT President
“It is amazing to watch the dedication and effort put in by all the committee members. Thank you for all of your expertise and roll up the sleeves work ethic!! The profession would not be the same without your work!” - Mary Conway, FSBPT Associate Member
“As a Board Administrator for 3 years and member of the Federation for 12 years, both NC and I have benefited greatly from the work of Federation volunteers. Your dedicated work on weekends and time spent in committee meeting preparations serves to develop, then teach current regulatory thinking and best practice recommendations for the community you serve. Thank you for your work on behalf of regulators and those we serve.” - Kathy Arney, Executive Director, North Carolina Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
“I've volunteered alongside some of the most intelligent, dedicated, and inspiring therapists. Thank you for sharing your gifts! The rewards are much greater than the sacrifice when volunteering with FSBPT.” - Jan Haas, FSBPT Associate Member
APTA’s Courses on COVID-19 Available to All PT/PTAs
APTA is offering COVID-19 and telehealth courses in their online learning center to non-members as well. All of the COVID-19 courses are free. These include courses on practitioner well-being, acute PT care, cardiovascular and pulmonary care, considerations for pediatric patients during the pandemic, minimizing the burdens of social distancing for older patients, and other important topics during this time. The online courses are just some of the many open-access resources APTA has developed related to COVID-19.
WCPT/INPTRA Digital Practice White Paper
The World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) and the International Network of Physiotherapy Regulatory Authorities (INPTRA) established a joint Digital Physical Therapy Practice Task Force to develop a white paper addressing physical therapy practice and regulation in the digital age.
The WCPT and INPTRA boards recently approved the white paper, which is an initial look at international digital practice and proposes a definition and purpose for digital physical therapy practice while exploring benefits, current limitations, regulatory concerns, guidelines, and considerations for educational programs.
WCPT and INPTRA also created a survey to obtain feedback from practitioners and regulators across the globe. You can read the full survey results.
If you have any questions please email the INPTRA staff at info@INPTRA.org.
Submit 2020 Excellence in Regulation Award Nomination Forms—Due June 5
The Excellence in Regulation Award recognizes jurisdictions that have made significant accomplishments towards increasing public protection for consumers of physical therapy services in a number of areas. To nominate a jurisdiction, including your own, submit a Nomination Form to communications@fsbpt.org by Friday, June 5, 2020. Late submissions will not be accepted. The winning jurisdiction(s) will be recognized at the Annual Meeting in Orange County, California, in October.
FSBPT Forum: Communicating with Key Stakeholders: Lessons from the Nevada Funeral and Cemetery Services Board
Regulatory boards should establish plans and procedures for communicating to key stakeholders both regularly and during crises. This article is based on a presentation by Jennifer Kandt at the 2019 FSBPT Annual Meeting.
Spotlight on Member Resources: COVID-19 Resources for Members
FSBPT is sharing multiple resources relevant to member boards. These resources can be found in on FSBPT's COVID-19 Updates page.
Our Gratitude for Volunteers
This month, we thank the generous volunteer members of these groups for their support of our mission:
EDC-PT
In the News
"COVID-19 Email Phishing Against US Healthcare Providers," FBI Flash, April 21, 2020
"Following a global increase in malicious cyber activity exploiting fear derived from the COVID-19 pandemic, the FBI was notified of targeted email phishing attempts against US-based medical providers. These attempts leveraged email subject lines and content related to COVID19 to distribute malicious attachments, which exploited Microsoft Word Document files, 7-zip compressed files, Microsoft Visual Basic Script, Java, and Microsoft Executables. The FBI is providing indicators of compromise related to these phishing attempts to assist network defenders in protecting their environments."
"Executive Summary: Exploring Public Opinion of Professional Licensing," Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing, 2020
"Occupational licensing reform has emerged as a hot topic in statehouses across the country. Conversations around licensing have been shaped largely by groups like Americans for Prosperity (AFP), American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), the Institute for Justice, and the Goldwater Institute, which claim that occupational licensing laws create harmful, unnecessary barriers to workforce participation and should be reduced or eliminated. The Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing (ARPL) contends that calls to eliminate or weaken licensing make no distinction
for highly complex professions that have a direct impact on public health, safety, and welfare. ARPL is concerned that broad-brush legislation would deregulate licensing wholesale and cause potentially dangerous and unintended consequences."
"As States Modify Telehealth Guidelines, Licensing Arguments Resurface," Eric Wicklund, mHealthIntelligence, April 3, 2020
"Mississippi's move to amend its emergency directive on telehealth use by out-of-state providers during the Coronavirus pandemic brings back familiar arguments for and against interstate licensure and portability."
"Physical Therapists Adapting to COVID-19, But Some Are Struggling," Joyce Frieden, MedPage Today, April 13, 2020
"...how are physical therapy (PT) practices -- normally a very hands-on specialty -- adapting to a COVID-19 world? It hasn't been easy, said Alice Bell, PT, senior payment specialist at the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)....
"For those who don't want to or can't come into the clinic, telehealth has been a good option, she said. 'For the patient who requires manual therapy techniques, we can't meet their needs in a telehealth visit; however, much of what we do goes beyond that, such as assessing an individual, helping them modify their environment, identifying alternative strategies, and helping guide patients through their exercise prescription,' said Bell."
"Unlicensed Haircuts Are Only the Beginning: Amid a pandemic, states are cutting back the red tape that kept health-care workers out," Paul Sherman, The Atlantic, April 15, 2020
"As the nation’s economy and health-care system struggle to adjust to the pandemic, more and more states are reexamining some of their oldest occupational and business regulations—rules that, although couched as protecting consumers, do far more to limit competition. And for those of us who have long questioned the supposed benefits of these policies, their erosion is welcome, even if the pandemic that caused it is not."
"Make Pandemic-Related Occupational License Reform Permanent," J.D. Tuccille, Reason, April 8, 2020
"Pandemic patients get better care when medical professionals are free to work where they're needed. The same will undoubtedly be true of regular patients after COVID-19 has left our lives."
Board Liaisons to Jurisdictions
Members of the Board of Directors serve as liaisons to multiple jurisdictions. Current liaison relationships are listed here for your reference.
 Tom CaldwellArkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas |  Ruggie CanizaresColorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, Utah |  Ellen DonaldAlabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina |  Joni KalisAlaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming |
 Nancy KirschConnecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont |  Adrienne PriceDelaware, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia |  David RellingIowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands |  John YoungThe public member of the board does not serve as a liaison to jurisdictions. |
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Staff Contact Information
Staff Contact Information
If you have questions, challenges or ideas, we want to hear from you!
(703) 299-3100
| Subject | Point of Contact/Email Address |
| ADA accommodations | Christine Sousa |
| Assessment or examination development questions | Lorin Mueller, PhD
Susan Layton
npte@fsbpt.org |
| Continuing competence | Jeffrey M. Rosa
competencestaff@fsbpt.org |
| Credentials review | Jaime Nolan, FCCPT |
| ELDD- Exam, Licensure and Disciplinary Database participation | eldd@fsbpt.org |
| Exam registration processing | Christine Sousa |
| Foreign educated issues | Leslie Adrian |
| Immigration | Jamie Nolan |
| JAM- Jurisprudence Assessment Module | competencestaff@fsbpt.org |
| Legislation or Model Practice Act | Leslie Adrian |
| Meeting arrangements | Paul Delaney |
| NPDB reports/questions | Angela Burnham |
| PTC- Physical Therapy Compact | compact@fsbpt.org |
| PEAT®- Practice Exam & Assessment Tool | peat@fsbpt.org |
| Reimbursement of expenses
Other financial matters | Bill Aronson
Linda Michelsen |
| School reports | schoolreports@fsbpt.org |
| Score transfer & reporting | Christine Sousa |
| SCP PET- Supervised Clinical Practice Performance Evaluation Tool | scppet@fsbpt.org |
| Security issues | Susan Layton
security@fsbpt.org |
| Anything else, including news to share with members | William A. Hatherill
Francois Marjorie
Caitlin Jennings
Communications@fsbpt.org |
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| | Sign off: Look after yourself, do good, smile often, and enjoy the wonders of a new spring! - William A. Hatherill, CEO
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