As organizations that represent aspects of the physical therapy profession, APTA and the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) have identified numerous collaboration opportunities on a variety of issues of joint concern. As the principle membership organization representing physical therapy, APTA works to serve its members and help them to best serve their patients. FSBPT's primary aim is to protect the public through licensure and regulation of the physical therapist and physical therapist assistant.

It is just as important that chapters are aware of, and involved in, communicating with their state licensing boards to identify collaboration opportunities to develop solutions to address ongoing issues in the states involving licensure and regulation.

In order to identify solutions to common challenges, APTA and FSBPT Board and staff representatives have been meeting regularly to coordinate efforts and share information. On January 19, a group of APTA Board members and staff met with FSBPT Board and staff to discuss several issues, including continuing competence, the physical therapy workforce, fixed-date exam testing, and the outcomes registry. A productive discussion was held on the topic of coordination of education, regulation and licensure. The group explored the current environment in these 3 areas, what is on the horizon for each area, and how APTA and FSBPT can collaborate to ensure that future developments in these areas are consistent and in the best interest of the profession. APTA will continue to keep members informed of progress in these areas. Contact Janet Bezner with any questions.