PTA in Missouri

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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 from an Accredited School

To become a licensed physical therapist assistant (PTA) in Missouri, one of the first steps is to earn an associate’s degree in physical therapist assistant. It is important to choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This ensures that the program meets the high standards set by the profession. 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 Missouri
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

In Missouri, the state Board of Registration for the Healing Arts requires candidates to enroll in a two-year program from an accredited school. This ensures that PTAs receive the necessary education and training to provide safe and effective care to patients.

There are several cities in Missouri where you can find schools that offer CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant associate’s degree programs. Some of these cities include Kansas City, Jefferson City, and Columbia. These programs provide students with a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences.

By completing a physical therapist assistant associate’s degree program from an accredited school, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to practice as a PTA in Missouri. This is an important requirement set by the Missouri Board to ensure the competency and professionalism of licensed PTAs in the state.

Step 2. Submit the Application for Physical Therapist Assistant Licensure Based on Examination

After completing your physical therapist assistant (PTA) program from an accredited school in Missouri, the next step is to apply for licensure based on examination. Below is a detailed guide on how to complete the application process:

1. Download the application form: Visit the website of the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts to download the application form for PTA licensure based on examination. Ensure that you download the latest version of the form.

2. Complete the application form: Fill in all the required information on the application form accurately. Make sure to provide your personal details, educational background, and employment history. In addition, include any criminal history or disciplinary actions, if applicable.

3. Submit supporting documents: Along with the application form, you need to submit certain required documents. These typically include official transcripts from your PTA program, verification of licensure from any other jurisdiction you may have been licensed in, and any additional documentation requested by the board. Ensure that all documentation is submitted in a sealed envelope with official seals or signatures.

4. Pay the application fee: As part of the application process, you will need to pay the required fees. The fee for PTA licensure based on examination in Missouri is $100. Be sure to make the payment through the accepted mode of payment mentioned on the application form.

5. Send the application packet: Once you have completed the application form, gathered the necessary documents, and paid the required fee, mail the entire application packet to the address specified on the application form. It is recommended to use a trackable mailing service to ensure the safe delivery of your application.

6. Temporary Licensure Agreement (optional): If you wish to practice as a PTA while waiting for your licensure application to be processed, you can apply for a temporary licensure agreement. This will allow you to work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist in Missouri for a limited period of time.

Note: Before submitting your application, be aware that you will also be required to pass the Missouri Jurisprudence Examination, which tests your knowledge of the laws and rules governing the practice of PTAs in the state.

By following these steps and ensuring that all requirements are met, you can complete the application process for physical therapist assistant licensure based on examination in Missouri.

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

Once you have completed the necessary education requirements and submitted your application for PTA licensure in Missouri, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs.

The NPTE is a comprehensive exam that assesses your knowledge and skills in various areas of physical therapy. It is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) and is a requirement for PTAs seeking licensure in most states, including Missouri.

To schedule the NPTE for PTAs in Missouri, you can visit the Prometric testing center website and select a location that is convenient for you. Prometric testing centers can be found in Jefferson City, St. Louis, Springfield, or Kansas City.

The NPTE for PTAs consists of approximately 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as patient care, interventions, safety and protection, and professional responsibilities. To pass the exam, you must achieve a minimum score of 600 or higher.

Once you have successfully passed the NPTE for PTAs, the Missouri Board of Physical Therapy will issue your physical therapist assistant license. This license allows you to legally practice as a PTA in the state of Missouri.

Passing the NPTE for PTAs is a significant milestone on your journey towards becoming a licensed PTA in Missouri. It demonstrates your competence and readiness to provide high-quality care to patients.

Step 4. Begin your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Missouri

As a licensed PTA in Missouri, you have various job opportunities available to you. Some of the top medical centers, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers in the state often hire PTAs to work alongside physical therapists in providing high-quality patient care. These facilities include renowned institutions such as Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Mercy Hospital St. Louis, and CoxHealth in Springfield.

To obtain a PTA job in Missouri, it is important to search for openings at these medical centers and hospitals, as well as rehabilitation centers, private practices, and nursing homes. Many of these institutions advertise job openings on their websites, or you can explore job portals specific to healthcare careers.

When applying for a PTA job, it is crucial to highlight your educational background, clinical experiences, and any additional certifications or specialized training you may have acquired. Presenting a well-written resume and attending interviews with confidence can greatly increase your chances of securing a position as a PTA in Missouri.

In conclusion, becoming a licensed PTA in Missouri opens doors to a wide range of job opportunities in top medical centers, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. By following the necessary steps and showcasing your skills and qualifications, you can kick-start a successful career in physical therapy assistance in the state of Missouri.

Step 5. Earn 30 Hours of Continuing Education to Renew your License Every Two Years

To maintain your physical therapist assistant license in Missouri, it is important to fulfill the requirement of earning 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This ensures that you stay up to date with the latest developments in the field and continue to provide quality care to your patients.

The license expiration date for PTAs in Missouri is January 31st of every even-numbered year. To renew your license, you must submit a renewal application and fee by December 1st of each odd-numbered year. This allows the Missouri Board of Physical Therapy ample time to review and process your application.

There are various recognized organizations where you can obtain continuing education courses. The Missouri Physical Therapy Association (MPTA) and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) are two such organizations. They offer a wide range of educational opportunities, both online and in-person, to help you earn the required hours.

When selecting courses, it is important to ensure that they are approved by the Missouri Board of Physical Therapy. This information is usually mentioned on the course provider’s website or can be obtained by contacting the organization directly. By choosing recognized organizations, you can be assured that the courses meet the state’s requirements for continuing education.

Earning 30 hours of continuing education may involve attending seminars, conferences, or workshops, as well as completing online study courses. It is important to keep track of the courses you complete and obtain certificates of completion. These documents serve as proof of your continued professional development and may be required during the license renewal process.

By completing your continuing education requirements and submitting a timely renewal application and fee, you can ensure the uninterrupted validity of your physical therapist assistant license in Missouri.

Why Be a PTA in Missouri?

Missouri has multiple PTA Programs available, which is more than many other states. However, there are also many jobs, and salaries are good ranging from $52,589 to $61,225 annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Missouri by clicking the links below.

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

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