Plan for the New Year!
It's almost time for New Year's Resolutions! In between dusting off your running shoes or tackling that DIY project, be sure to keep these FSBPT goals in mind:
- Select your Voting Delegate, Alternate Delegate, and Funded Administrator. We will send administrators instructions on how to enter these selections in the new year.
- Keep up with the latest regulatory issues by expressing your interest in attending the 2024 Regulatory Workshop for Board Members and Administrators, held May 16-18, with both in-person and virtual options!
- Partner with FSBPT to send licensure data on a weekly basis. We have grant options available to help automate this process, including funds for PT Compact members. Learn more in the article below.
- Confirm your board roster and personal contact information is correct in the Member Portal. If you have any issues logging in or making changes, please contact us.
- Save the Dates!
Leadership Issues Forum
Annual Education Meeting
Model Practice Act Moment
Each month, we will focus on a different statute section from the Model Practice Act and its accompanying commentary.
STATUTE
3.02 Qualifications for Licensure [and Certification]
B. An applicant for a license as a physical therapist who has been educated at a school that has not been accredited by an agency approved by the board shall:
- 1. Complete the application process including payment of fees.
- 2. Provide satisfactory evidence that the applicant’s education is substantially equivalent to the education of physical therapists educated in an accredited entry-level program as determined by the board. Graduation outside the United States from a professional education program accredited by the same accrediting agency that the board approves for programs within the United States constitutes evidence of substantial equivalency. In all other instances, “substantially equivalent” means that an applicant for licensure educated at a school that has not been accredited by an agency approved by the board shall have:
- a. Graduated from a physical therapist education program that prepares the applicant to engage without restriction in the practice of physical therapy;
- b. Provided written proof that the applicant’s school of physical therapy is recognized by its own ministry of education or other appropriate recognition agency;
- c. Undergone a credentials evaluation as directed by the board that determines that the candidate has met uniform criteria for educational requirements as further established by rule; and
- d. Completed any additional education as required by the board.
- 3. Pass a board-approved English proficiency examination as required by the board as further established by rule.
- 4. Pass a national examination approved by the board.
- 5. Pass additional examinations [e.g., jurisprudence examination] required by the board as further established by rule.
- 6. Submit to a criminal records check.
- 7. Complete supervised clinical practice as defined by rules with a restricted license.
- 8. Meet the requirements established by board rule if applicable.
- 9. Meet other statutory and regulatory requirements applicable to individuals licensed under this [Act].
COMMENTARY
The term “substantially equivalent,” as defined here in model statute, should be delineated specifically in rules. Rule language should contain, at minimum, the requirement that any credentials evaluation
- utilize the appropriate edition of the FSBPT Coursework Tool for Foreign Educated Physical Therapists in order to determine educational equivalency at the date of graduation;
- require that a physical therapist trained in credential reviewing participates in the evaluation; and
- require that quality assurance standards be met by the credentials review agency.
The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibilities Act of 1996 requires prescreening of applicants educated at a school that has not been accredited by an agency approved by the board for physical therapist licensure before granting work visas or a change in immigrant status. Screening includes credentials review, English proficiency examinations and determination of prior license or authority to practice in the country where the professional education was completed. Physical therapy licensing boards and their staff spend considerable time processing applications for licensure by applicants educated at a school that has not been accredited by an agency approved by the board. It is important that consistency occurs in the licensing standards from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and that the entire application process is sufficiently detailed both in statute and in rules. The inclusion of supervised clinical practice for the foreign educated physical therapist would provide the opportunity for integration and progression into the United States healthcare delivery system. With variations in healthcare delivery and culture, a supervised clinical experience would provide direct learning and ease of transition of the foreign educated physical therapist.
The Ethics and Legislation Committee recently updated the Model Rules (Regulations) for Graduates of non-CAPTE Accredited Programs (Examination & Endorsement). These model rules apply to an applicant for a physical therapist/physical therapist assistant license who has been educated at a program that has not been accredited by an agency approved by the board. The rules can be found here.
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: CBA: We Are the Fifty-Three
In this year's Administrative Staff Corner, Michelle Sigmund-Gaines, Director of the Oregon Board of Physical Therapy and Director on the FSBPT Board of Directors, encourages engagement through contacting leadership, using the CBA message board, and leveraging FSBPT resources.
Spotlight on Member Resources: FSBPT Forum
The FSBPT Forum provides insight into our members' and stakeholders' issues, needs, and interests. Articles in the FSBPT Forum reflect our commitment to our mission by increasing awareness and knowledge of regulatory healthcare issues and solutions. The 2023 issue is now complete.
Many Thanks to Our Volunteers
This month, we thank our generous volunteer members for their support of our mission.
In the News
"AI is driving Google’s health care business. Washington doesn’t know what to do about it." Ruth Reader, Politico, December 4, 2023
"The firm is deploying its artificial intelligence across the health care spectrum. Its lobbyists are smoothing the way."
"Cosmetic Surgeon Who Streamed Procedures on TikTok Loses Medical License," Moneywatch, July 12, 2023
"An Ohio plastic surgeon who livestreamed procedures on TikTok has been banned from practicing medicine. The Ohio Medical Board on Wednesday voted to permanently revoke the license of Dr. Katharine Grawe — known as Dr. Roxy in her plastic surgery practice, "Roxy Plastic Surgery," and to her many TikTok followers."
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
- Approve the 2024 organizational goals. Rationale: The Board of Directors annually adopts organizational goals.
- Adopt the FSBPT 2024 operating budget as recommended by the Finance Committee. Rationale: The Board of Directors annually adopts an operating budget.
- Adopt the FSBPT 2024 capital budget. Rationale: The Board of Directors annually adopts a capital budget.
- Adopt the 2024 FSBPT Policies Manual. Rationale: As a matter of procedure, the policy manuals are reviewed and approved each year.
- Adopt the 2024 Personnel Policy Manual. Rationale: As a matter of procedure, the policy manuals are reviewed and approved each year.
- Adopt the 2024 NPTE Policies. Rationale: The 2024 NPTE Policies will become effective 60 days after they have been sent to the member jurisdictions for review.
- Adopt the 2024 Salary Administration Manual. Rationale: As a matter of procedure, the policy manuals are reviewed and approved each year.
- Adopt the 2024 Nominations Election Manual. Rationale: As a matter of procedure, the policy manuals are reviewed and approved each year.
- Approve 2023 grants for Louisiana and 2024 grants for Mississippi and for Ohio. Rationale: Grant Funding to enhance their systems for better ELDD reporting.
Appointments:
- Appoint Charles Reiter as the Public member through December 31, 2024.
- Appoint the following persons to the following Committees:
- Continuing Competence: Kat Joines (NV), Mary Elizabeth Parker (TX)
- Education: LaVonne Couch (NJ), Mary Conway (IL), John Rocco De Lara (LA)
- Ethics & Legislation: Justin Berry (ND), Susan Gile (KS)
- Finance: Charles Harvey (NV), Andrew Koenig (FL)
- Item Writer PTA: Kristin Schroeder (FL)
- Resolutions: Joni Kalis (OR)
- Sexual Misconduct & Boundaries: Jason Kaiser (CA), Michael Noonan (RI)
- Appoint the following persons to the following task forces:
- Workforce PT-CPMDS Taskforce: Kathy Arney (NC), Karen Gordon (TX), Julio Carrera (MD), Kathryn Brittain (LA), Maura Kelly (MN), Yetty Shobo (VA), Michael Rennick (OR), Prisca Collins (ACAPT), Leon Anderson (AAPT), Meghan Warren (APTA)
- Informed Consent Taskforce: Rebecca Sue Dean (AK), Kelly King (AZ), Tom Ryan (WI), Karen McIntyre (OH), Jennifer Holland (APTA)
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 blue ice cypress tree 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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