The purpose of this licensing and regulatory office is “to protect the public from incompetent, unprofessional, and unlawful practice.” The board drafts standards and requirements for PTA school programs, post-graduation tests, new and renewed licenses, continuing education, and professional practice.
These officials also receive, investigate, and adjudicate complaints against practitioners. The board may refuse to grant a license, revoke the credentials, charge fines, or take other action to punish those who violate the Arkansas Physical Therapy Practice Act by breaking laws or engaging in unprofessional conduct.
The five board members include four licensed physical therapists and one person who is a public representative.
Minimum Education Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant Programs in Arkansas
A prospective practitioner needs either a high school diploma or a GED. Since some PTA schools have competitive admission processes, it is a good idea to take extra health and science courses in high school.
The state board stipulates that anyone wishing to become a physical therapy assistant in Arkansas should be a graduate of a postsecondary institution sanctioned by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The organization accredits schools that satisfy criteria regarding coursework and hands-on training; faculty qualifications and experience; and rates of graduation, licensure exam success, and employment.
Anyone with a diploma from a non-CAPTE school must submit an original evaluation done specifically for Arkansas by a board-approved agency.
Every second year, practicing PTAs are required to earn one continuing education credit (10 contact hours). The instruction has to be in an accredited course or program by a provider the board has approved.