Membership Survey Action Series: FSBPT's Investments in ELDD and PT Compact Enhancements
Our members are our priority. Bringing about positive change takes collaboration, commitment, and cohesion. The membership survey is our commitment to you, and it’s important to the FSBPT Board of Directors to share how we are listening to our members. This month’s installment focuses on the board’s investments and financial stewardship to the member jurisdictions, particularly pertaining to the Exam Licensure and Disciplinary Database (ELDD) and Physical Therapy Compact (PT Compact).
Our members told us they needed better resources and technology to inform their fellow jurisdictions regarding licensure, discipline, and investigation and to better meet their public protection mission. Furthermore, compact states have a reporting requirement to remain active participants. In 2022, FSBPT allocated $2.2 million for grants to assist all member jurisdictions in submitting data to the ELDD, including data outlined in the key areas of compact compliance.
By the end of 2022, FSBPT awarded grants to seven member jurisdictions. These funds were used to support programming, data entry, technological upgrades, and other activities that enhance updates to the ELDD. The FSBPT Board has continued the grant funding process this year (refer to "Available Funding Opportunities" below).
For example, in Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas, the implementation of an Application Programming Interface (API) now allows for daily updates instead of a weekly data file sent to the ELDD. These enhancements are expected to improve compact member compliance in key areas while reducing the associated demand on personnel.
Thanks to these investments, ELDD reporting is at an all-time high. Only a decade ago, no states sent weekly licensure files, and only sixteen states reported disciplinary action. In 2018, the FSBPT ID was created as a unique identifier, instead of the individual’s social security number, to protect personal information. Fast forward to Q3 of 2023, twenty-nine jurisdictions currently use the FSBPT ID, thirty-seven send weekly licensure files, and thirty-eight report disciplinary action.
The PT Compact has also helped enhance the ELDD in multiple ways. When jurisdictions join the compact, they agree to the following rules:
- **Rule 6.1:** Required elements of the data system, including a unique identifier, must be submitted for all individuals applying for, or currently holding, a PT or PTA license of any status.
- **Rule 6.2:** Member states shall submit the data elements at least one time per week.
- **Rules 6.3 & 6.4:** Member states shall use the FSBPT OPS to report adverse actions and any encumbrances not associated with an adverse action within fourteen business days of the effective date of the action.
The PT Compact Bylaws established a Compliance Committee to assist in the following activities:
- Monitoring Compact member state compliance or adherence to the requirements of the PT Compact
- Remediating areas of weakness/non-compliance
- Making recommendations to the Executive Board
The Compliance Committee helps the PT Compact Executive Board ensure member state compliance with the data reporting requirements contained in the compact’s governing documents.
As of July 2023, FSBPT grant funding has been used to help four jurisdictions begin using FSBPT ID and eight jurisdictions start using APIs to automate licensure sharing. The board's investment focus has enhanced public safety in numerous ways. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with member jurisdictions to improve the ELDD.
Model Practice Act Moment
Each month, we will focus on a different statute section from the Model Practice Act and its accompanying commentary. We are pleased to bring you this third installment.
STATUTE:
2.02 Powers and Duties of the Board
The board shall:
24. Have the authority to determine and collect, at the time of new licensure [or certification] and licensure [or certification] renewal, a core set of data elements deemed necessary for the purpose of workforce assessment and planning. The data elements shall be used to create and maintain a healthcare workforce database. The Board may enter into agreements with a private or public entity to establish and maintain the database, perform data analysis, and/or prepare reports concerning the physical therapy workforce. The Board shall promulgate rules to perform duties pursuant to this [act].
COMMENTARY:
Collecting a core set of data elements, or minimum data set, for physical therapists/physical therapist assistants allows workforce information to be standardized. Some jurisdictions may have a data set specific to physical therapy providers while others will have a data set for multiple health care professions.
In some jurisdictions, the Board may be required to provide this data either upon request or as required to other state agencies, the Legislative Assembly, the public etc. The Board may choose to add this requirement in the statutory language or in rules.
Whenever possible, information should be released by the Board only in the aggregate without reference to any person’s name or other individual identifiers. A Board may choose to add language to that effect in the statutory language or to rules.
Save the Dates!
2024 Leadership Issues Forum
July 13-14, 2024
Arlington, Virginia
2024 Annual Education Meeting
October 31-November 2, 2024
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
New Passing Standards for NPTE Approved
Over the summer, two task forces met to review the passing standard for the NPTE for PTs and PTAs. These panels were diverse with respect to panelist background, area of expertise, and practice setting, including eighteen professionals for the PTA Task Force and twenty for the PT Task Force. The panels met over three days to consider how the results of the practice analysis, and subsequent changes to the content outline, affected the passing standard for the NPTE at each exam level.
Last month, the FSBPT Board of Directors reviewed and approved the task forces’ recommendations. The FSBPT Board thanks the task forces for their efforts.
Key Resources for Understanding the 2024 NPTE Redesign
FSBPT has been dedicated to enhancing the National Physical Therapy Examinations (NPTE) by incorporating new item types to better evaluate entry-level physical therapy knowledge. Some of these efforts have already been implemented, while others will be effective in 2024. We have compiled numerous resources to help you understand these important changes.
- The When, How, and Why of the 2024 NPTE Redesign: This webinar recording explains the background of the NPTE redesign, the new item types, PEAT updates, and the implications of these changes for licensing jurisdictions, educators, and candidates.
- Demonstration Examination: This free demonstration examination gives candidates the look and feel of the exams administered at Prometric. The demo exam contains sample PT and PTA questions, including video and scenario items.
NPTE Content Outlines: These outlines detail the specific content areas that will be covered on the NPTE, helping candidates focus their study efforts.
- Candidate Handbook: The Candidate Handbook contains all the information candidates need to know about the exam and how it is administered.
Available Funding Opportunities
The FSBPT Board is committed to supporting its member jurisdictions in their mission to protect the public. Join the ranks of states including Alabama, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Texas, that have all taken a big step toward both administrative efficiency and protecting the public. They are currently leveraging FSBPT Grants to enhance the ELDD, improve compact privilege implementation, and collect workforce data.
Your state should be next! Learn more about our available grants to help jurisdictions with the following activities:
Enhancing the ELDD
The ELDD is the Examination, Licensure, and Disciplinary Database that stores information about physical therapy licenses and disciplinary actions against licensees. Jurisdictions can apply for grants to fund consulting, programming, data entry, technological upgrades, API connection, and other activities that enhance updates to the ELDD, FSBPT's tool for easily connecting data. The API automates the process of jurisdictions receiving NPTE scores and sending licensure files at a frequency of their choosing. The API enhances the accuracy, security, and timeliness of the data.
Improving Compact Privilege Implementation
For jurisdictions that are part of the PT Compact, FSBPT encourages jurisdictions to create a button on their website to "Obtain a Compact Privilege" near the "Renew My License" button so that licensees think about the compact when they renew their state license. This website enhancement can be funded through the grant program. Additionally, grants can help jurisdictions use the API to allow jurisdictions to display Compact Privilege holder information on their licensure verification system to ensure that the individual is authorized to practice in the jurisdiction.
Collecting Workforce Data
FSBPT is also interested in enhancing workforce data collection as part of licensure renewal. This can include collecting information on demographics, employment status, practice settings, and more. The data can be used to inform workforce development and policy decisions.
FSBPT offers grant funding to support its member jurisdictions in their mission to protect the public. If you are interested in receiving a grant, please send an email to FSBPT's CEO, William A. Hatherill summarizing what you would like to have funded and why it is important or how it can improve efficiencies for your board.
Upcoming Webinars
We are hosting multiple upcoming webinars within the FSBPT Portal, allowing you to easily access member resources, groups, and events all in one place! Please follow the instructions to register.
- Login to the FSBPT Portal.
- Once you are in the portal, select "Events."
- Click on the webinar you want to register for.
- Follow the registration process.
- Select "Register Now" (it may take a moment to load).
- You will see a screen indicating the registration was successful, and you will receive an email confirmation.
- You can also use the calendar icon on the top right to add the event to your calendar. Please note, depending on your calendar and time zone settings, it may not have the right time. The time is included in the calendar description. Please confirm your time settings are correct.
- All done! We will send more information on how to join the webinar closer to the event.
Scam Alert Reminder
The FSBPT Board of Directors wants to ensure you are aware of scams circulating that target licensees. Here's a friendly reminder to stay vigilant!
According to reports, the scammers send an email or fax a letter on state board letterhead alleging a licensing issue. The scammers then immediately call the target before they can call the PT board office directly to confirm. Furthermore, the scammers spoof the board office's phone number to trick the licensee into thinking the call is legitimate.
Please tell licensees that if they receive a suspicious phone call or correspondence, they should contact their state board before divulging any information.
Send Us Additional Recipients
Do you know of any individuals or groups that would be interested in receiving our monthly News Brief? Or, did someone forward this to you and you'd like to be on our list?
Please send any referrals our way! Contact us via email at communications@fsbpt.org with information, ideas, or suggestions.
We appreciate your collaboration in our effort to further our mission to protect the public.
FSBPT Forum: Consumer Protection Rating
The ELDD is a comprehensive physical therapy database of disciplinary, licensure, and examination score information. The information stored in this database helps jurisdictions in multiple ways. This article is based on a 2022 Annual Education Meeting presentation by Charles Harvey, Corie Tillman Wolf, and Jason Kaiser.
Spotlight on Member Resources: Telehealth in Physical Therapy
In a post-COVID world, telehealth is a new standard method of care. Learn how it has impacted physical therapy in FSBPT’s resource, "Telehealth in Physical Therapy," now available in a quick four-page summary.
Many Thanks to Our Volunteers
This month, we thank our generous volunteer members for their support of our mission.
- Exam Development Committee-PTA
- Exam Development Committee-PT
In the News
"Dept of Safety and Professional Services: Faster licensing of Wisconsin pharmacy school graduates," WisPolitics, November 2023
"The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) has reached an agreement with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy that will lead to faster licensing of Wisconsin pharmacy students graduating into the profession. The move also enables the department to eliminate some current pharmacy licensing steps, bringing more efficiency to the process for DSPS, as well."
"Ohio examining licensing, certification requirements," The Center Square | Ohio, October 2023
"As an Ohio House committee begins to review occupational licenses, a Columbus-based policy group believes many can be modified or eliminated. In the last four years, the state has eliminated or reduced the requirements for 55 licenses that follow recommendations from The Buckeye Institute."
"Disruption Interruption: CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid Scale Back Primary Care Initiatives," HealthLeaders Media, October 2023
"The nation's three largest pharmacy chains have announced plans to close nearly 1,500 underperforming stores."
"Assessing the Biggest Disruptors in Healthcare," HealthLeaders Media, February 2023
"A new American Hospital Association report takes a closer look at the biggest challengers to healthcare's status quo, and challenges traditional providers to be innovative to survive in a competitive primary care market."
"These 10 states are home to the least stressed-out people in America," CNBC.com, October 2023
"From the rollercoaster housing market or to the rising costs of groceries, it seems like everyone has reason to be a little stressed out. But, according to a new report, the level of stress you experience can also be influenced by where you live."
"The next act for messenger RNA could be bigger than COVID vaccines," MIT Technology Review, February 2021
"New messenger RNA vaccines to fight the coronavirus are based on a technology that could transform medicine. Next up: sickle cell and HIV."
Board Report
Recently, to advance the business of FSBPT, the board approved the motions listed. Please contact your jurisdiction board liaison if you have any questions or would like additional information.
MOTIONS APPROVED
23-10-04
COMMITTEE CHAIR APPOINTMENTS
- Ethics & Legislation – Craig Miller (MI)
- Sexual Misconduct & Boundaries – Sherri Paru (OR)
- Education Committee – Venus Vendoures Walsh (IA)
TASK FORCE CHAIR APPOINTMENTS
- Informed Consent Task Force – (Co-Chairs) Kristina Lounsberry (LA) & Sherise Smith (OR)
- CPMDS (PT Specific Task Force) – Mario Baker (OH)
FINANCE COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
- Charles Harvey (NV) – fill appointment to complete tenure vacated by Steve Scherger
EXAM COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
Examination Development Committee-PT
- Co-chair Paul-Neil Czujko, PT (NY): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024
- Mitch Wolden, PT (ND): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
- Ashley Court, PT (AZ): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
- Marie-Eve Pepin, PT (MI): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
Examination Development Committee-PTA
- AnnMarie Fewkes, PTA (NJ): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
- Sue Bravard, PT (IA): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
- Dana Kahl, PT (AR): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
Item Writer Coordinator PT
- Aubrey Bailey, PT (VA): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
- Sean Griech, PT (PA): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
Item Writer Coordinator PTA
- Dawn Smathers, PT (OK): January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026
ITEM WRITING TASK FORCE APPOINTMENTS
Item Writing Task Force PT
- Mallory Kargela, PT (AZ): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Ashleigh Scott, PT (VA): (January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Lois Stickley, PT (TX): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Cameron Bassett, PT (PA): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Lindsay Carroll, PT (MD): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Molly Watkins, PT (MN): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Katie Weis, PT (AZ): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
Item Writing Task Force PTA
- Lauren Eberhardt, PT (CA): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Suzanne Reese, PT (OK): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Allison Butcher, PT (TX): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Tamey Howard-Feltner, PT (GA): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Lusine Karapetyan, PT (CA): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Melissa Kieffer, PT (MI): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Kathy Kulinski, PT (IL): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Anna Marie Prado, PTA (NC): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
- Douglas Walker, PT (IN): January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024
FSBPT Board of Directors
Members of the board of directors serve as liaisons to multiple jurisdictions.
 Ruggie Canizares
Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, Utah |  Ellen Donald
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee |  Cynthia Potter
Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont |  David Relling
Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Puerto Rico, South Dakota, Virgin Islands |
 Steven Scherger
Arkansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia |  Michelle Sigmund-Gaines
Alaska, Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming |  Michele Thorman
Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, West Virginia, Wisconsin |  Charles E. Reiter
The 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
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Subject
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Point of Contact/Email Address
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ADA accommodations
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Christine Sousa
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Assessment or examination development questions
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Lorin Muelle
Susan Newman
npte@fsbpt.org
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Continuing competence
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Jeffrey M. Rosa
competencestaff@fsbpt.org
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Credentials review
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Jaime Nolan, FCCPT
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ELDD- Exam, Licensure and Disciplinary Database participation
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eldd@fsbpt.org
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Exam registration processing
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Christine Sousa
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Foreign educated issues
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Leslie Adrian
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Immigration
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Jamie Nolan
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JAM- Jurisprudence Assessment Module
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competencestaff@fsbpt.org
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Legislation or Model Practice Act
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Leslie Adrian
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Meeting arrangements
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Paul Delaney
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NPDB reports/questions
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Angela Burnham
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PTC- Physical Therapy Compact
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compact@fsbpt.org
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PEAT®- Practice Exam & Assessment Tool
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peat@fsbpt.org
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Reimbursement of expenses
Other financial matters
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Linda Michelsen
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School reports
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schoolreports@fsbpt.org
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Score transfer & reporting
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Christine Sousa
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SCP PET- Supervised Clinical Practice Performance Evaluation Tool
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scppet@fsbpt.org
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Security issues
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Susan Newman
security@fsbpt.org
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Anything else, including news to share with members
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William A. Hatherill
Caitlin Jennings
Communications@fsbpt.org
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From the Osmanthus Goshiki-lined banks of the Potomac River, where the fish are faster, the fishing boats are longer, and the fishermen are still full of stories.
- William A. Hatherill, CEO
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