APTA members from across the country met with their legislators on Capitol Hill this week to discuss issues impacting the physical therapy profession as part of the APTA Federal Advocacy Forum, a 3-day event that focuses on the importance of educating legislators on the role, value, and interests of physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs).
The Forum featured several speakers, including Brad Fitch from the Congressional Management Foundation, Stephanie Cutter, host of CNN’s Crossfire, and Rep Jackie Speier (D-CA).
APTA also presented the 2014 Public Service and Federal Government Affairs Leadership awards at the Forum. Sen Mark Kirk (R-IL) was the recipient of the Public Service Award for his support of the physical therapy profession and for helping bring the benefits of physical therapy to a national stage. The Federal Government Affairs Leadership award was given to Mark Anderson, PT, MPT, from Utah. Anderson has been advocating for the profession for 21 years and during that time has built meaningful relationships with Utah legislators. He also helps mentor students and other Utah members who are getting started in advocacy at the federal level.
Make sure you join the PTeam grassroots program for updates on federal legislation including action alerts, newsletters, and information bulletins.
Remember, the APTA Action app is a powerful grassroots tool for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, students, and patients on the go and is available as a free download in the Apple and Google Play app stores. The app includes an action center, Congressional directory, talking points, and more, including the opportunity to donate to PT-PAC. S earch “APTA Action” in your Apple or Google Play app store to download the app today! Also consider downloading the APTA News app.