SHARON, Pa. — Jennifer Jewell, teaching professor in Penn State Shenango’s physical therapist assistant program, presented at the annual American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Combined Sections Meeting held in Houston, Texas, in February.
Through a collaboration with doctor of physical therapy (DPT) program faculty from St. Louis University and the University of Louisiana Monroe, Jewell presented on an educational theory report titled, "Strengthening the Foundation: Making PTA Education a Prerequisite for Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs." The report presents the case for competency-based education, which includes requiring physical therapy assistant (PTA) licensure and practice prior to progressing to a DPT degree, to improve career paths for PTAs.
According to the team’s presentation abstract, an examination of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) standards for accreditation on physical therapist education programs highlights overlapping content within the two PTA and DPT education programs. However, the competencies and skills completed within PTA education are seldom used as prerequisites for a DPT. This theory of physical therapy education and clinical practice could allow for a more streamlined and cost-effective route for students to obtain a doctoral degree, Jewell said.
"As a strong advocate of PTA education, I am committed to ensuring it remains at the forefront of national conversations related to the physical therapy education continuum,” Jewell said. “By continuing this conversation, we aim to open better career paths within the physical therapy profession, ensuring PTA education is recognized and valued as our graduates move forward in their educational journeys.”
The APTA Combined Sections Meeting National Conference is the largest physical therapy conference in the United States. Each year, over 15,000 physical therapy professionals gather to experience cutting-edge research, innovative clinical practices, and dynamic networking opportunities.
“Together, we hope to build a stronger, more capable and diverse physical therapy community,” Jewell said.