PTA in Iowa

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

Step 1. Earn Your Physical Therapist Assistant Degree

To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Iowa, the first step is to earn a Physical Therapist Assistant degree. In order to enroll in a PTA program in Iowa, it is important to choose a school that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This accreditation ensures that the program meets the high standards set by the profession and prepares students for their future careers. 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 Iowa
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

The PTA program typically requires the completion of a two-year associate’s degree. During this time, students will delve into a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the field. Some of the courses commonly included in the PTA curriculum are Human Anatomy & Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Neurology for PTA. These courses provide a strong foundation in the essential concepts and principles of physical therapy practice.

By completing a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program and earning a two-year associate’s degree, students in Iowa are well-prepared to enter the workforce as skilled and knowledgeable PTAs. This educational foundation serves as the stepping stone towards further licensure requirements and successful careers in the field of physical therapy.

Step 2. Submit an Application for PTA Licensure by Examination

To obtain a PTA license by examination in Iowa, applicants must complete the necessary application form provided by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy. This application form can be downloaded from the board’s official website or requested by contacting the board directly.

The application form must be filled out accurately and completely. It is important to sign the form in ink as electronic signatures are not accepted. Along with the completed application form, applicants must include a non-refundable fee of $120 payable to the Iowa Board of Physical & Occupational Therapy.

The application and fee should be mailed to the following address:

Iowa Board of Physical & Occupational Therapy

Lucas State Office Building, 5th Floor

321 E 12th St

Des Moines, IA 50319-0075

In addition to the application form and fee, applicants must also arrange for official copies of their academic transcripts to be sent directly to the Iowa Board of Physical & Occupational Therapy by their educational institution(s). These transcripts are necessary to verify the completion of required education and coursework.

By following these steps and submitting a complete application, applicants can move forward in the process of obtaining their PTA licensure by examination in Iowa.

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

To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Iowa, you are required to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through this process.

Step 1: Register Online

Visit the FSBPT website and complete the online registration form for the NPTE-PTA. You will need to provide personal and educational information, as well as pay the examination fee of $400.

Step 2: Review the Candidate Handbook

Once your registration is confirmed, you will gain access to the NPTE Candidate Handbook. It is essential to read and understand the information provided in the handbook, as it contains important details about the examination format, content areas, and scoring criteria.

Step 3: Take the Online Practice Exam

To prepare for the NPTE-PTA, it is highly recommended to take the online practice exam, which is available for an additional fee. This practice exam provides valuable insights into the format of the actual test and helps you assess your knowledge and readiness.

Step 4: Sit for the NPTE-PTA

On the scheduled examination date, you will need to report to the designated testing center to take the NPTE-PTA. The examination consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your competence in various content areas related to physical therapy practice.

The content areas covered in the NPTE-PTA include but are not limited to, physical therapy services, clinical applications, communication skills, and human relations. To pass the examination, you must achieve a scaled score of 600 or higher, which is the minimum passing score set by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

Successfully passing the NPTE-PTA is a crucial step toward obtaining your PTA license in Iowa. Ensure that you follow the registration process, study diligently, and utilize available resources to increase your chances of success.

Step 4. Establish Your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Iowa

Once you have passed the exam and completed the application process as well as paid all of the fees you will receive your Iowa PTA license.

Once licensed, you can pursue job opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation clinics, and independent practice. Some of the top employers in Iowa for PTAs include UnityPoint Health, Genesis Health System, and MercyOne.

The average salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Iowa is around $64,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and additional certifications.

Establishing your career as a PTA in Iowa can lead to a rewarding profession in which you can help individuals improve their mobility and quality of life.

Step 5. Renew Your Physical Therapist License Every Two Years

Renewing your physical therapist license in Iowa is a straightforward process that ensures your continued eligibility to practice. It is important to renew your license every two years to comply with state regulations. Here are the steps to renew your license:

1. Check your eligibility: Before initiating the renewal process, make sure you have completed the required continuing education credits. This is a vital component for license renewal.

2. Choose your renewal method: Iowa offers two convenient options for license renewal – online or by mail. You can choose the method that best suits your preferences and needs.

3. Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for physical therapist licenses in Iowa is $160. This fee can be paid online using a credit card or by including a check or money order with your mailed renewal application.

4. Submit your renewal application: If you choose to renew online, visit the Iowa Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website and follow the instructions provided. If you prefer to renew by mail, complete the paper application form and send it to the Iowa Department of Public Health along with the payment.

5. Renewal deadline: It is essential to renew your license before the expiration date to avoid any late fees or potential disruptions in your practice. The renewal deadline is typically the last day of your birth month in the renewal year.

By following these steps, you can successfully renew your physical therapist license in Iowa and continue to provide quality services to your patients. Remember to stay updated on the continuing education requirements and submit your renewal application on time to ensure a seamless license renewal process.

Why Be a PTA in Iowa?

Iowa has 6 PTA Programs available making it a PTA friendly state. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $44,700 to $59,600+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Iowa by clicking the links below.

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

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