PTA in Wisconsin

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

Steps to Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant in Wisconsin

Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Wisconsin requires completion of specific education and clinical training requirements, as well as passing state and national exams.

Here are the steps to obtain a PTA license in Wisconsin:

1. Education and Clinical Training: To qualify for a Wisconsin PTA license, individuals must graduate from a Board-approved program. The program should consist of a minimum 28-credit technical diploma or associate degree program. These programs provide coursework in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and therapeutic interventions.

2. Apply for Licensure: After completing the educational requirements, individuals must apply for a Wisconsin PTA license. The Wisconsin Board of Physical Therapy oversees the licensure process. Applicants must fill out the license application form, submit the required fees, and undergo a criminal background check.

3. State and National Exams: Once the application is approved, applicants must take and pass both the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam and the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. The NPTE is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

4. License Renewal: Wisconsin PTA licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew the license, PTAs must complete continuing education hours, including a specific number of hours in ethics. This ensures that PTAs stay updated with the latest practices and advancements in the field.

By following these steps, individuals can become licensed Physical Therapist Assistants in Wisconsin, allowing them to provide high-quality care to patients under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.

Step 1. Complete your Education and Clinical Training through an Accredited Program

To become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Wisconsin, you must start by completing your education and clinical training through an accredited program. Wisconsin requires individuals to graduate from a Board-approved program, which can either be a technical diploma or an associate degree program. 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 Wisconsin
• Local PTA Program Search
• Online PTA Program Search

Several institutions in Wisconsin offer accredited programs for aspiring PTAs. These programs provide comprehensive coursework in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and therapeutic interventions. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist physical therapists in providing high-quality patient care.

During your education, you will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through a clinical practicum. This hands-on training allows you to work directly with patients under the supervision of experienced physical therapists. It provides a valuable opportunity to apply the knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world patient scenarios.

By completing an accredited program, you can ensure that you meet the educational requirements necessary to become a licensed PTA in Wisconsin. This foundational education and clinical training will serve as a strong basis for your future career in helping patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life.

Step 2. Apply for your Wisconsin PTA License

Once you have completed your education and clinical training, the next step is to apply for your Wisconsin PTA license. The application process involves several steps and requirements.

First, you will need to fill out and submit the application form, which can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services website. Be sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

Next, you will need to pay the required fees. The current application fee for a Wisconsin PTA license is $165. Additionally, you will need to submit a fee of $47.50 for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) form.

You will also need to provide proof of your education. This can be done by requesting your official transcripts from the institution where you completed your PTA program. These transcripts should be sent directly to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Lastly, you will need to submit the NPTE form. This form is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). You will need to register for the exam separately through the FSBPT website.

Once all the required documents and fees have been submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Wisconsin Board of Physical Therapy. If everything is in order, you will be notified of the board’s decision and issued your Wisconsin PTA license.

By following these steps and meeting all the requirements, you will be well on your way to becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in Wisconsin.

Step 3. Pass the Required State and National Exams

To obtain a Wisconsin PTA license, you must pass both the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) and the Open-Book Examination on the Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Code.

The NPTE is a comprehensive examination that assesses your knowledge and skills in physical therapy interventions, patient management, and other related areas. It is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). To register for the exam, you will need to visit the FSBPT website and complete the registration process. The NPTE is a computer-based exam that is offered year-round at designated testing centers.

The Open-Book Jurisprudence Examination, on the other hand, focuses on your understanding of the Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Code as they apply to physical therapy practice in the state. This exam must be completed within 90 days of submitting your initial application. It is an online, open-book exam that allows you to reference the relevant statutes and administrative codes during the test.

To pass the NPTE and the Open-Book Examination, you will need to achieve a passing score determined by the respective exam boards. Additionally, as part of the screening process, you may be required to undergo a criminal background check.

Once you have successfully passed both exams, your application will be reviewed by the Wisconsin Board of Physical Therapy. If everything is in order, you will receive notification of the board’s decision and be issued your Wisconsin PTA license.

Step 4. Begin your Career as a PTA in Wisconsin

As a newly licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Wisconsin, you’ll have a variety of employment settings to choose from. PTAs play a crucial role in the healthcare industry and can find rewarding careers in hospitals, schools, outpatient facilities, and private practices throughout the state.

Hospitals: Many PTAs find employment in hospitals, assisting physical therapists in providing care to patients who are recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. This setting allows PTAs to work with a diverse range of patients and collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals.

Schools: PTAs can also work in schools, assisting children with disabilities or injuries in improving their motor skills, mobility, and overall physical health. This setting offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.

Outpatient Facilities: PTAs often work in outpatient facilities, providing therapy services to patients who require non-emergency treatments. These facilities may specialize in areas such as orthopedics, sports medicine, or neurology.

Private Practice: Many PTAs choose to work in private practice settings alongside physical therapists, providing one-on-one care to patients. Private practices can be found in urban centers like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay, as well as in smaller communities across the state.

Rehab Facilities: PTAs may also find employment in rehabilitation facilities, helping patients recover and regain functionality after surgery, injury, or illness. These facilities provide comprehensive care and often have specialized equipment and resources.

When starting your career as a PTA in Wisconsin, exploring these employment settings can help you find the perfect fit for your skills and interests. Whether you prefer working in a hospital, school, outpatient facility, private practice, or rehab facility, there are ample opportunities to contribute to high-quality patient care and make a difference in the lives of others.

Step 5. Renew your PTA License Every Two Years

Once you have obtained your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license in Wisconsin, it is important to renew it every two years to ensure your continued eligibility to practice. The renewal process is straightforward and can be completed online through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (WDSPS) website or by requesting a paper renewal form.

It’s important to note that PTA licenses in Wisconsin expire on February 28 of odd-numbered years. To renew your license, you must fulfill certain requirements. These include paying a $75 renewal fee and submitting a signature attesting to the completion of 20 hours of board-approved continuing education within the two-year licensure period.

Of the 20 required hours, four must be in ethics and jurisprudence, ensuring that PTAs stay updated on the ethical and legal responsibilities associated with their profession. It is essential to choose board-approved continuing education courses or activities to meet these requirements.

Renewing your PTA license in Wisconsin not only ensures your compliance with state regulations but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and the provision of high-quality patient care. By staying current with your license, you can continue to provide valuable services to patients in a variety of healthcare settings in Wisconsin.

Why Be a PTA in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has multiple PTA Programs available which is a higher number compared to the number of PTA schools available in many states. PTA jobs and salaries are good as well ranging from $56,720 to $68,060+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Wisconsin by clicking the links below.

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

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