PTA in Arizona

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Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.

Step 1. Graduate from a CAPTE-Accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program

To become a physical therapist assistant in Arizona, candidates must successfully graduate from a CAPTE-accredited program. CAPTE, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, is the recognized accrediting agency for physical therapist assistant programs in the United States. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.

You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:

• All Accredited PTA Programs in Arizona
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

To meet the degree requirements, students must complete a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. These programs typically award an associate degree upon graduation. Some approved degree programs in Arizona include those offered by Pima Medical Institute, Gateway Community College, Mohave Community College, Carrington College, and Maricopa Community College.

Coursework topics in physical therapist assistant programs cover a range of subjects, including anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, therapeutic exercises, treatment techniques, and principles of treatment. Students are also trained in rehabilitation centers and clinical rotations to gain real-world experience in patient care.

Internship training is an essential component of the program, providing students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Graduates must also pass the AZLAW exam, which tests their understanding of ethical guidelines and professional ethics.

Upon completion of the CAPTE-accredited program, graduates can sit for the national exam to become a licensed physical therapist assistant.

Step 2. Submit an Application for Examination and Certification in Arizona

To become a certified Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arizona, the next step is to submit an Application for Certification to the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy. As a first-time certification candidate, you will need to apply for certification by examination.

The application process requires several documents and fees. One of the most important requirements is to have your official transcripts sent directly from your Physical Therapist Assistant program to the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy. These transcripts should demonstrate completion of an accredited program.

In addition to official transcripts, you will need to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or legal presence in the United States. This can be in the form of a certified copy of your identification, such as a birth certificate, passport, or Permanent Resident Card.

When submitting your Application for Certification, you will also need to pay an application fee. The fee is $120 if you are applying between April 1st – June 30th, or $160 if you are applying between July 1st – March 31st.

It is important to note that the application process may require additional documents or information. Therefore, it is recommended to review the specific requirements outlined by the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy.

By following these steps and successfully submitting your Application for Certification, you will be one step closer to becoming a certified Physical Therapist Assistant in Arizona.

Step 3. Pass National and State Certification Examinations

To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arizona, individuals must successfully pass both the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and the Arizona Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Examination (AZLAW). These examinations are crucial steps in the certification process and are designed to ensure that PTAs have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality patient care.

The NPTE is a national examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover various aspects of physical therapy practice, including patient evaluation, treatment techniques, therapeutic exercises, and principles of treatment. In order to be eligible for the NPTE, candidates must first complete an accredited physical therapist assistant program.

On the other hand, the AZLAW examination is specific to the state of Arizona and focuses on the legal and ethical guidelines that PTAs must adhere to within the state. It tests candidates’ knowledge on topics such as professional ethics, ethical guidelines, and the laws and regulations governing the practice of physical therapy in Arizona.

To be eligible to take these examinations, candidates must submit an application to the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy and meet certain requirements, which may include the completion of an accredited physical therapist assistant program and a background check.

There are several resources available to help candidates prepare for these exams, including review books, online study materials, and practice tests. These resources cover a wide range of topics, such as therapeutic modalities, treatment plans, functional mobility, and clinical rotations. Candidates should thoroughly review the exam content outlines provided by the FSBPT and the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy to ensure they are adequately prepared.

Passing the NPTE and AZLAW examinations is a significant milestone for PTAs in Arizona. These exams not only validate their knowledge and skills but also ensure that they are equipped to provide safe and effective patient care in accordance with the state’s laws and regulations.

Step 4. Start Your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Arizona

If you are interested in starting your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Arizona, you will find a wide range of job opportunities in various healthcare settings. PTAs can work in physical therapy practices, hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, and outpatient ambulatory care facilities.

Physical therapy practices are one of the primary employers of PTAs in Arizona. They offer a variety of treatment options and services to help patients with mobility and pain management. Hospitals also employ PTAs to assist in the rehabilitation process for patients recovering from surgeries or injuries. Rehab clinics specialize in providing comprehensive therapy services, and PTAs play a vital role in delivering these treatments. Outpatient ambulatory care facilities provide care to patients who do not require inpatient hospitalization, and PTAs contribute to the rehabilitation programs offered in these settings.

Some specific locations where PTAs can find employment in Arizona include Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Scottsdale, and Chandler. These cities have a high concentration of healthcare facilities and offer numerous job opportunities for PTAs.

With the growing demand for physical therapy services, the job outlook for PTAs in Arizona is promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of PTAs is projected to grow by 27% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the national average for all occupations.

If you are passionate about helping others and have a desire to work in the healthcare field, pursuing a career as a PTA in Arizona can be a rewarding choice.

Step 5. Renew your Physical Therapist Assistant Certification Every two Years

Renewing your Physical Therapist Assistant Certification in Arizona every two years is a straightforward process. To begin, you need to contact the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy to request a renewal packet. The renewal packet can be obtained by reaching out to the Board directly or by downloading it from their website.

Once you have the renewal packet, carefully review all the instructions and fill out the required forms. You will need to provide updated contact information, attest to the completion of a Jurisprudence Exam, and pay the renewal fee. It is essential to submit the completed packet and payment before the designated deadline, which typically falls on the expiration date of your current certification.

Unlike some states, Arizona does not require Physical Therapist Assistants to complete continuing education courses for certification renewal. However, it is always beneficial to stay current with emerging research and advancements in the field. The renewal cycle for Physical Therapist Assistant Certification in Arizona occurs every two years.

For any additional details or questions regarding the renewal process, the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy can be contacted directly. They will guide you through the process and provide any necessary information to ensure a smooth renewal experience.

Why Be a PTA in Arizona?

Arizona is a great state for PTAs with 6 accredited PTA Programs available. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $48,000 to $63,000+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Arizona by clicking the links below.

• Research Arizona’s PTA Programs
• Compare average PTA salaries in Arizona’s major cities

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