Officials on this panel evaluate educational and other qualifications of applicants for certification. They provide for national and state examinations, and determine passing scores.
The board regulates practitioners to ensure they comply with legal and ethical standards. It conducts investigations of allegations and complaints, issuing subpoenas to witnesses to appear at hearings. PTAs who violate state statutes are subject to disciplinary procedures such as certificate suspensions or revocations.
These officials also license physical therapy businesses that comply with rules concerning practitioner qualifications, recordkeeping, and other matters.
The board, appointed by the governor, consists of four PTs, one PTA, and two public members who are state residents unaffiliated with the industry.
Minimum Education Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Arizona
The journey to become a physical therapist assistant in Arizona starts with the completion of high school. An alternative is to secure a general education diploma. Biology and health classes aid in preparing prospective practitioners for career training.
The state board issues certificates to those who graduate from PTA schools that the Commission on Physical Therapy Education sanctions. CAPTE grants accreditation to postsecondary institutions with specified curricula and qualified faculty. The organization also mandates that a high percentage of a school’s students graduate, pass the licensing exam, and find jobs.
Arizona is different than most other states in that it does not require PTAs to periodically earn continuing education credits.