PTA in Louisiana

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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 Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Louisiana, you must first earn a degree from an accredited school. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the high standards set by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). 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 Louisiana
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

Several accredited schools in Louisiana offer Associate’s degrees in Physical Therapist Assistant programs. These programs typically require two years of full-time study to complete.

To gain admission into a PTA program, applicants must meet certain requirements, such as a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology.

In the PTA program, students will learn essential skills and knowledge to assist physical therapists in providing treatment to patients. Common courses in the curriculum include anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation techniques, and clinical practicum.

Earning a Physical Therapist Assistant degree is the first step towards a rewarding career in helping others recover from injuries and improve their overall physical function. After completing the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs and apply for licensure in Louisiana.

By choosing an accredited school and successfully completing the PTA program, you will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to provide valuable support to physical therapy professionals in various healthcare settings across Louisiana.

Step 2. Submit Your Application for Licensure by Examination

To submit an application for licensure by examination to the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the board. These requirements include completing an education program approved by the board, passing the required physical therapy exam, and demonstrating moral character and fitness to practice physical therapy.

To begin the application process, you will need to complete the licensure application form provided by the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board. The application form can be obtained online through their website. There is an application fee that must be paid at the time of submission.

It is important to note that the application form must be notarized before submission. This can be done by a notary public who can verify your identity and the authenticity of the documents.

Additionally, you will need to submit a recent passport-sized photo of yourself along with the application form. The photo should comply with the specifications provided by the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed the application form, you can submit it online or mail it to the board. Be sure to include the application fee with your submission.

By following these steps and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can successfully submit your application for licensure by examination to the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board.

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

In order to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Louisiana, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).

To register for the NPTE for PTAs, you will need to create an account on the FSBPT website and submit your application. If you do not yet have a degree from an accredited PTA program, you can request certification of eligibility to take the exam through the FSBPT. Once your application has been processed, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter.

To schedule your exam, you can visit the Prometric website and search for testing sites in Louisiana. The exam content includes questions on physical therapy treatment, plan of care, patient education, and professional responsibilities. The duration of the exam is four hours.

It is important to thoroughly prepare for the exam by reviewing the content areas outlined by the FSBPT and utilizing resources such as study guides and practice exams. By successfully passing the NPTE for PTAs, you will be one step closer to obtaining your PTA license in Louisiana.

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

Establishing a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Louisiana involves meeting certain education requirements and obtaining a license from the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board. PTAs play a crucial role in assisting physical therapists in providing treatment and rehabilitation to patients.

To become a licensed PTA in Louisiana, individuals must complete an accredited educational program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical training. These programs typically take around two years to complete and cover various subjects such as anatomy, physiology, therapeutic exercise, and patient care. Additionally, students must complete a minimum number of contact hours and pass the national licensing exam.

After successfully completing the education program and passing the licensing exam, prospective PTAs can apply for licensure through the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board. The application process involves submitting an application, paying the appropriate fees, and providing documentation of education and clinical experience.

Once licensed, PTAs can find job opportunities in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. These facilities provide a range of physical therapy services, including preventive care, treatment, and rehabilitation. Some examples of facilities that have previously hired PTAs in Louisiana include Ochsner Health, Baton Rouge Physical Therapy – Lake Charles, and Our Lady of the Lake Rehabilitation Hospital.

With the demand for qualified PTAs on the rise, there are ample employment opportunities available across Louisiana. PTAs can enjoy fulfilling careers helping patients improve their physical health and well-being while working in diverse healthcare settings.

Step 5. Renew Your Physical Therapist Assistant License Every Two Years

Renewing your Physical Therapist Assistant license in Louisiana is an essential step in maintaining your professional status. The renewal process occurs every two years, ensuring that you stay current in your knowledge and skills.

The renewal deadline varies based on your birth year. For individuals born in odd years, the deadline is on December 31st of every odd-numbered year. For those born in even years, the deadline is on December 31st of every even-numbered year. It’s crucial to keep track of these deadlines to avoid any lapses in licensure.

When renewing your license, there is a fee associated with the process. For individuals born in odd years, the fee is $55. If you were born in even years, the fee is $50. It’s important to submit your renewal application and fee before the deadline to avoid any late fees or penalties.

Continuing education is also a requirement for license renewal. Physical Therapist Assistants are required to complete a total of 20 contact hours every two years in order to maintain their license. These contact hours must be completed in specific categories, including 12 hours in clinical practice, 4 hours in professional responsibility, and 4 hours in any combination of ethics, and jurisprudence related to physical therapy.

Renewing your Physical Therapist Assistant license every two years is crucial to your career. By completing the renewal process on time, paying the appropriate fee, and fulfilling the continuing education requirements, you can ensure that you remain in good standing with the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board.

Why Be a PTA in Louisiana?

Louisiana has multiple PTA Programs available and is a great state to get your physical therapy education in. There are also many jobs and salaries range from $50,500 to $65,000 annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Louisiana by clicking the links below.

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

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