PTA in Georgia

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

Step 1. Earn a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree

To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Georgia, the first step is to earn an Associate’s Degree in Physical Therapist Assisting. This degree provides the necessary knowledge and skills required to work under the supervision of licensed Physical Therapists in various healthcare settings. 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 Georgia
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

The program must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), which is the accrediting agency recognized by the Georgia Board of Physical Therapy. CAPTE ensures that programs meet rigorous academic and clinical standards.

There are several CAPTE-accredited schools in Georgia that offer Associate’s Degrees in Physical Therapist Assisting. The degree programs typically include a combination of classroom instruction and clinical externships. Some of the common coursework covered in these programs includes anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation techniques, and patient care skills.

During the clinical externships, students gain hands-on experience by working with real patients under the guidance of licensed Physical Therapists. This practical training helps students develop the necessary competence and confidence to provide effective patient care.

By earning a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree from a CAPTE-accredited school in Georgia, individuals can fulfill the educational requirements necessary to apply for a PTA license and pursue a rewarding career in the field of physical therapy.

Step 2. Submit Georgia Physical Therapist Assistant Application for Licensure

Once you have met the education requirements for becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Georgia, the next step is to submit your application for licensure. This process is essential to ensure you are eligible to practice as a PTA in the state.

To start your application, visit the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy’s website. You have the option to either complete the application online or submit a paper application. Whichever method you choose, make sure to carefully follow the instructions provided.

When completing the application, you will need to provide your personal information, educational background, and work history. Additionally, you will also need to submit official transcripts from your PTA program and provide any required forms or documents.

It’s crucial to note that there will be an application fee associated with submitting your application. The fee must be paid in full at the time of submission. The specific amount can be found on the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy’s website.

Once you have completed the application, gathered the necessary documents, and paid the fee, you can submit your application for review. The board will evaluate your application and determine your eligibility for licensure as a PTA in Georgia.

By following these steps and submitting your Georgia Physical Therapist Assistant Application for Licensure, you are one step closer to beginning your career as a licensed PTA in the state.

Step 3. Pass the National Written and Georgia State Law Examinations

Passing the National Written and Georgia State Law Examinations is a crucial step in obtaining a PTA license in Georgia. To schedule these exams, applicants must submit a completed application to the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy. Once their application is approved, they will receive instructions on how to schedule the exams.

For the National Written Examination, applicants must study from various resources such as textbooks, review courses, and practice exams. The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) provides detailed information regarding the content and structure of this exam. The passing score requirement for the National Written Examination may vary, so it is important to check with the FSBPT for the latest updates.

The Georgia State Law Examination focuses on state-specific laws and regulations pertaining to physical therapy practice. Study materials for this exam include the Georgia Physical Therapy Practice Act, as well as related rules and regulations. The passing score requirement for the Georgia State Law Examination is also determined by the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy.

It is important for applicants to dedicate sufficient time and effort to their studies in order to successfully pass both exams. By thoroughly preparing and utilizing the recommended study materials, individuals can increase their chances of achieving the passing scores required for licensure in Georgia as a physical therapist assistant.

Step 4. Begin Your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Georgia

If you’re a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) looking to start your career in Georgia, you’ll be pleased to know that there are ample job opportunities available in the state. Georgia boasts a thriving healthcare industry, with many top healthcare providers offering excellent employment options for PTAs.

One such renowned healthcare provider in Georgia is Memorial University Medical Center. Located in Savannah, this leading medical center is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive range of healthcare services. As a PTA, you can find rewarding job opportunities at Memorial University Medical Center, working alongside a skilled team of healthcare professionals.

Another top healthcare provider in Georgia is St. Joseph’s / Candler Hospital. Situated in Savannah as well, St. Joseph’s / Candler Hospital is a trusted name in the healthcare industry. With its commitment to providing high-quality patient care and advanced treatment methods, this hospital offers promising career prospects for PTAs.

In addition to these healthcare providers, there are numerous other hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers throughout Georgia that hire PTAs. Whether you’re looking for a position in a bustling city or a more rural setting, there are plenty of options available to suit your preferences.

To kickstart your career as a PTA in Georgia, it’s essential to obtain a PTA license from the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy. This license enables you to practice legally and provide crucial assistance to physical therapists in the state.

With the abundance of job opportunities and the support of reputable healthcare providers like Memorial University Medical Center and St. Joseph’s / Candler Hospital, Georgia is an excellent place to begin your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant.

Step 5. Complete 30 Continuing Education Hours to Renew Your License Every Two Years

In order to maintain an active PTA license in Georgia, physical therapist assistants are required to complete 30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years. These CE hours are essential for professional growth and ensuring the provision of quality patient care.

To fulfill this requirement, PTAs have various options for earning CE credits. Activities that count towards earning CE hours include attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to physical therapy. Additionally, participating in peer reviews, completing self-instructional courses, and giving presentations on physical therapy topics are also acceptable activities.

It is important to note that at least 3 of the 30 CE hours must be obtained in the area of ethics and jurisprudence education. This requirement ensures that PTAs stay up to date with the ethical standards and legal regulations governing their profession.

To make the process easier, the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy utilizes a web-based application called aPTitude. This platform allows PTAs to track and manage their CE hours online and submit their renewal application electronically.

When searching for CE opportunities, PTAs should look for providers who are approved by the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy. Some approved providers include the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the Physical Therapy Association of Georgia (PTAG). These organizations offer a wide range of courses and resources specifically designed for physical therapist assistants.

By completing the required 30 CE hours every two years, PTAs in Georgia demonstrate their commitment to professional development and maintain their knowledge and skills in order to provide the best possible care for their patients.

Why Be a PTA in Georgia?

Georgia is a friendly state for PTAs with 5 accredited PTA Programs available. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $60,000 to $67,000+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapy assistant in Georgia by clicking the links below.

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

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