Bridging Borders: The Journey to U.S. Physical Therapist Practice

Internationally educated PTs bring diverse viewpoints to the U.S. workforce but can encounter obstacles along the way.

Feature

Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024

Author: Kristin (Engelhard) Belfiore, PT, DPT; Cristina C.O. Essola, PT, DPT, MPH; and Paras Goel, PT, DPT, MBA, MEd

The U.S. physical therapy landscape is becoming more dynamic with the continued arrival of internationally educated physical therapists, or IEPTs. These professionals bring fresh perspectives, diverse expertise, and a global approach that enriches patient care and shapes a more culturally aware health care system. Their stories offer insights into the challenges they face, the invaluable contributions they make, and the importance of understanding the unique educational paths to grow the field of physical therapy in the U.S.

Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.

Create a free account Log in

You Might Also Like...

News

APTA, Provider and Patient Groups Push Major Reforms to Prior Authorization

Mar 25, 2026

APTA has joined a broad coalition of national provider and patient organizations to release a new policy framework aimed at tackling one of the most persistent

Article

Policy Progress and Patient-First Thinking: Takeaways from the 2026 Maley Panel

Mar 23, 2026

APTA Board member Kelley Kubota, PT, DPT, MS, moderated the John H.P. Maley Clinical Impact Lectureship Award panel featuring William Boissonnault, PT,

Article

APTA Offers Insights on the Strategic Implementation of AI in Health Care to HHS

Mar 18, 2026

In February, APTA submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in response to their Request for Information: Accelerating the