Ohio Officially Enters Into The Physical Therapy Licensure Compact

COLUMBUS—State Senator Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson) announced today that Ohio has fully entered into the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact and can now issue licenses with compact privileges. Because of efforts led by Senator Roegner in Senate Bill 5, residents of Physical Therapy Compact member states are able to purchase a compact privilege and begin to practice physical therapy in other compact states almost immediately. "Beginning today, more than 20,000 physical therapists and PT assistants in Ohio will be able to apply to use their license in other member states," said Roegner. "Improving licensure mobility strengthens Ohio's economy by drawing in qualified workers from other states, as well as expanding Ohioans access to health care." “The Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA) is grateful for Senator Roegner’s leadership, along with Senator Bill Blessing, to sponsor and champion legislation to enter Ohio into the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact," said Victoria Gresh, CAE, OPTA Executive Director. "We know this path to practicing across state lines will decrease administrative burdens for PTs and PTAs and increase access to provider choice for patients. We are excited for Ohio physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to begin applying for their compact privileges.” The Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board praised Roegner's work to help Ohio enter the PT Compact: “The Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board is excited to be the twenty-fifth state to begin issuing physical therapy compact privileges. The PT Compact will be a great benefit to Ohio PT and PTA license holders looking to practice in other states. The PT Compact is an ideal solution to enhance professional mobility for military families, travel therapists, and those practicing telehealth, while maintaining the Board’s mission of public protection.” To learn more about the Physical Therapy Compact, click here.