2019 marks some exciting developments for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants! The Physical Therapy Compact (PT Compact) is further expanding to include new states. It allows PTs and PTAs to work in member states without going through the usual process for licensure outside their home state. Since its official enactment in 2017, the Compact has continued to improve and expand across the country growing from the initial 10 states to 60% of the country taking steps to become members.
PT Compact Legislation Introduced
On September 5, 2019, Wisconsin introduced legislation to become a member of the PT Compact Commission. This is the first step toward membership. Currently, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania are also considering PT Compact legislation. If these states enact the legislation, they will join 11 other states in their efforts to increase participation.
Enacted Legislation
On July 20, 2019, Delaware enacted PT Compact legislation and became the twenty-sixth state to join the PT Compact Commission. They are currently working on implementing the requirements so they can begin issuing and accepting compact privileges. This is the second step toward becoming a member state. Delaware is the latest addition to the list of states focused on increasing mobility for physical therapists and providing consumer access to physical therapy services.
Issuing Compact Privileges
The most recent and exciting news for the Compact involves the newest member state. Washington will begin issuing compact privileges on September 23, 2019. This puts the number of participating states up to sixteen. PTs and PTAs that consider their home state to be one of the sixteen member states, will be able to verify their eligibility and purchase compact privileges on the PT Compact site.
Why This Matters
As the PT Compact continues to gain traction and add states, the process for PTs and PTAs to work in multiple states will be even easier. To learn more about the PT Compact and how it works, the Compact has released a video providing an overview. Or, if you’re interested in practicing around the country, let Supplemental Health Care get you on your feet.
It allows PTs and PTAs to work in member states without going through the usual process for licensure outside their home state. Since its official enactment in 2017, the Compact has continued to improve and expand across the country growing from the initial 10 states to 60% of the country taking steps to become members.
If you are a physical therapy professional looking to travel, whether licensed in a current PT compact member state or not, contact us today to learn more about your options. We’d be happy to help get you started on your travel career! To see all of our open travel physical therapy needs, check out our online job portal.
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