PTA in Delaware

More PTA Info for Delaware:

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 and Obtain CPR Certification

To become a licensed physical therapist assistant (PTA) in Delaware, the first step is to graduate from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) ensures that PTAs receive the necessary education and training to provide safe and effective patient care. 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 Delaware
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

In addition to completing an accredited program, PTAs in Delaware must also obtain CPR certification. This certification ensures that PTAs are prepared to handle emergency situations and provide immediate assistance when needed.

In Delaware, there are several cities where CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant programs are available. These cities include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Georgetown. By attending a program in one of these cities, aspiring PTAs can receive the necessary education and training to pursue a career in physical therapy.

Overall, eligibility to become a PTA in Delaware requires graduating from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program and obtaining CPR certification. These requirements help to ensure that PTAs are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to their patients and contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.

Step 2. Submit an Application for Licensure by Examination

To become licensed as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in Delaware, you must submit an application for licensure by examination to the Delaware Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers.

Here are the required documents and steps for this process:

1. Application Form: Complete and submit the official application for licensure by examination. You can download the form from the Delaware Examining Board’s website or obtain a copy by contacting their office.

2. Application Fee: Include the required application fee with your application. The current fee amount can be found on the Delaware Examining Board’s website. Payments can be made by check or money order payable to the “State of Delaware.”

3. CPR Certification: Provide proof of current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from an approved provider such as the American Heart Association. This certification ensures that you have the necessary skills to respond to medical emergencies.

4. Criminal Background Check: You must undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensure process. The Delaware Examining Board will provide instructions on how to complete this check, which typically includes submitting fingerprints and completing a background authorization form.

5. Official Transcripts: Request your school(s) to send official transcripts directly to the Delaware Examining Board. These transcripts should document your completion of the required education in physical therapy or physical therapy assistant programs.

By following these steps and providing all the required documents, you can submit your application for licensure by examination to the Delaware Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be on your way to becoming a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in Delaware.

Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs

To become a licensed physical therapist assistant (PTA) in Delaware, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) and is a requirement in most states.

Eligibility to take the NPTE for PTAs includes completing a PTA education program from an accredited institution and obtaining the necessary clinical experience. Once you meet these requirements, you can proceed with the registration process.

To register for the exam, you need to create an account on the FSBPT website and submit the required documents, including your official transcripts and proof of clinical experience. After your application is reviewed and approved, you will be notified of your eligibility to take the exam.

The NPTE for PTAs assesses your knowledge and competence in various areas, such as therapeutic interventions, physical therapy data collection, and patient care techniques. To prepare for the exam, resources like study guides, practice exams, and review courses are available.

To pass the NPTE for PTAs, you must achieve a score set by the FSBPT, which may vary from state to state. Keep in mind that there is a registration fee associated with taking the exam.

By successfully passing the NPTE for PTAs, you demonstrate your proficiency in the field and meet the requirements for acquiring a PTA license in Delaware.

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

Delaware offers a range of job opportunities for PTAs, with top employers including reputable healthcare organizations and hospitals, physical therapy clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

Some of the notable employers in the state include ChristianaCare Health System, Bayhealth Medical Center, and Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children.

As a PTA in Delaware, you can expect to work closely with physical therapists to provide patient care. This may include assisting with therapeutic exercises, implementing treatment plans, and monitoring progress.

PTAs are in high demand in Delaware, with a projected job growth rate of 26% over the next decade. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for physical therapy services and the aging population.

Starting your career as a PTA in Delaware offers a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. With the right education and licensure, you can secure a fulfilling job in this growing field.

Step 5. Complete Continuing Competency Hours to Renew Your License

In Delaware, physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are required to complete Continuing Education (CE) units in order to renew their licenses. The Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers sets specific CE requirements for PTAs in Delaware.

During the biennial license renewal period, PTAs in Delaware are required to complete a total of 24 CE units. One CE unit is equivalent to 50 minutes of instruction or contact hours. PTAs must earn at least two CE units in ethics as part of their total requirement.

Additionally, PTAs in Delaware are required to maintain a current certification in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) from the American Heart Association or an equivalent organization approved by the Board. This certification must be obtained and maintained throughout the license period.

It is important for PTAs to keep track of their CE hours and ensure that they are completing the required units within the specified time frame. Failure to meet the CE requirements may result in disciplinary action or the non-renewal of their license.

By fulfilling the CE requirements, PTAs in Delaware are ensuring that they stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices in the field of physical therapy. This promotes ongoing professional competence and ensures that PTAs are providing high-quality care to their patients.

Why Be a PTA in Delaware?

Delaware is a friendly state for PTAs with multiple accredited PTA Programs available. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $58,000 to $64,000+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapy assistant in Delaware by clicking the links below.

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

More PTA Info for Delaware: