Several members have requested some clarification regarding the difference between the Physical Therapy Licensing Board and the APTA-Idaho chapter board and the roles and responsibilities.

Physical Therapy Licensing Board

The Physical Therapy Licensing Board is a government entity under the Idaho Department of Professional and Occupational Licenses and is granted the delegated authority to “administer, coordinate and enforce” the following functions by the Governor of Idaho. (54-2206)

  1. Evaluate the qualifications of applicants for licensure, approve and administer examinations to test the knowledge and proficiency of applicants for licensure, and approve or deny the registration and issuance and renewal of licenses and permits;
  2. Authorize all disbursements necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter;
  3. Promulgate rules not inconsistent with the laws of this state which are necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter;
  4. Adopt rules providing for continuing education;
  5. Obtain restraining orders and injunctions prohibiting conduct in violation of the provisions of this chapter, conduct investigations, issue subpoenas, and examine witnesses and administer oaths, concerning practices which are alleged to violate the provisions of this chapter;
  6. Suspend or revoke or otherwise sanction licensees in the manner provided in this chapter, or place a person holding a license under this chapter on probation;
  7. Require as a condition of receiving or retaining a license issued under this chapter that restitution be paid to a consumer;
  8. Require the inspection of testing equipment and facilities of persons engaging in any practice pursuant to this chapter;
  9. As the board deems reasonable, take notice of and give effect to prior licenses issued to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the state of Idaho by the state board of medicine and such other actions, proceedings, orders or decisions of the state board of medicine involving complaints, investigations, discipline or other matters concerning physical therapists or physical therapist assistants; and
  10. Authorize, by written agreement, the division of occupational and professional licenses to act as its agent in its interest.

Essentially the Licensing board is responsible for overseeing the practice of physical therapy and to protect the public. The licensing board has the authority to investigate and enforce the practice of physical therapy. All therapists who practice Physical Therapy as either a Physical Therapist or a Physical Therapist Assistant are required to be licensed to practice.

 

APTA-Idaho

The Idaho Chapter of the APTA Executive board is an elective board to act to promote the profession of physical therapy and advocate for the profession in Idaho. The APTA-Idaho Chapter Executive board and the Licensing Board are separate and independent.

We advocate for the profession by ensuring that PT’s and PTA’s in Idaho are able to practice at the top of their scope of practice. We do that by presenting legislation as we did with dry needling. We protect the profession from encroachment from other professions by tracking actions and legislation that may come through.

We strive to preserve the viability of practice in Idaho by advocating for increased reimbursement and insurance policy.

We help to create community by providing continuing education and networking opportunities to members through our chapter meetings and educational conferences. We have started quarterly Town Hall meetings where members can discuss important topics. Our website is a place where members can post jobs and search for jobs in Idaho.

Essentially, we are the only group that advocates on the behalf of the profession of physical therapy in Idaho. The Executive Board meets on a monthly basis to discuss and coordinate efforts to advocate for the profession.