APTA Iowa News

President's Message | April 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:57:23 GMT

Happy National Volunteer Month!

Please join me in recognizing and celebrating your colleagues who serve our profession at the district, state, and national levels! I am impressed by the depth and breadth of their knowledge and experience. Their collective efforts result in collaborative relationships with insurers, payers, legislators, and the licensure board.

Consider volunteering with us especially at the district level in a leadership position, become a member of the communications or membership committees, or serve as the PTA Council representative. Reach out to mail@iowaapta.org to learn more.

Congratulations to these association award winners:

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award: Kory Zimney, PT, DPT, PhD
Max Shelton Friend of APTA Iowa Award: Venus Vendoures Walsh, MPA, CPM

Advocacy:

The Advocacy Reception on April 15 was a success! Approximately 30 state legislators attended. Members spent their time building relationships and communicating Chapter legislative priorities.
As the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session comes to a close, I want to extend an important thank you to Doug Struyk and his team at Carney Appleby Law for guiding us through another session. They monitor bills that impact physical therapy practice and provide strategy when indicated.
APTA is hosting the Payment Advocacy Summit July 10-11 in Portland, Oregon. APTA is funding 2 Chapter members to attend. APTA is also offering free registration to 4 members. Contact mail@iowaapta.org if interested. Registrations will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thank you for your continued partnership,

Sue Bravard, PT, MS

2026 APTA Iowa Legislative Day Recap

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:00:58 GMT

APTA Iowa hosted a two-part Legislative Day on February 25!

Ths year's event was a tremendous success, with more than 100 APTA Iowa members coming together at the Iowa State Capitol for a day focused on advocacy, connection, and engagement! It was an incredible opportunity for members from across the state to meet with legislators, share the impact of physical therapy, and discuss the importance of policies that support our profession and the patients we serve.

There were two events wrapped up in one day this year. In the morning, practicing members joined legislators for a breakfast at the Capitol. Then, in the afternoon, the Iowa Bar Association hosted students from across the state for an educational session. From there, students went to the Capitol to meet with legislators and take tours to really take in the history of the building and the state.

Events like these highlight the strength of our community and the value of having our voices heard in the legislative process. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to attend, participate in conversations with lawmakers, and represent APTA Iowa so well.

Be sure to check out our Facebook page to see photos and highlights from the day and relive some of the great moments!

A special thank you to our sponsors—this event would not be possible without your generous support and commitment to helping make advocacy opportunities like this possible for our members.

President's Message | February 2026

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:33:17 GMT

Hello, APTA Iowa!

I hope you are finding time to enjoy watching the XXV Winter Olympic Games. They provide many opportunities for movement analysis and conversations about injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Congratulations to recently appointed APTA Iowa liaisons

Kerri Hurning, Federal Affairs Liaison
Jeramy Kuhn, Ethics Liaison

Highlights from APTA Component Leadership Meeting during Combined Sections Meeting:

Discussed APTA Strategic Framework 2030
Three pillars: advancing payment, empowering members, and evolving practice.
Chapters and academies are aligning priorities with these 3 pillars and focusing on collective efforts to advance the profession.
Listened to a presentation, Artificial Intelligence in Physiotherapy, by Ash James, Professional Advisor Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
Refer to Use of Artificial and Augmented Technology in PT Task Force for more information about APTA’s work in this area.
Viewed the PT For Future Me resources . This consumer awareness campaign highlights the value of physical therapy as a proactive investment at every stage of the lifespan. There is a member toolkit and resources for patients. Watch for the newly released commercial too.

Advocacy

Join us for APTA Iowa Day on the Hill - Wednesday, Feb. 25
Legislator breakfast with members 7:00-9:00 a.m.
Student activities at 11:00 a.m.
Send comments to the Department of Education to classify the doctor of physical therapy as a professional degree by March 2. Take action!
Help us advocate for change with the Iowa Medicaid MCOs. If you have information specific to Iowa Total Care and/or Wellpoint, please complete this survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/BT8S6PN
Join us Wednesday, April 15 from 5:30-7:00 pm at Advocacy Reception in Des Moines.

Thank you for your partnership,

Sue Bravard, PT, MS

APTA Iowa Members Visit with Legislators

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:31:05 GMT

The 2026 legislative session is in full swing, and APTA Iowa members are already advocating!

In December, 21st Century Rehab staff hosted a legislative meeting at the Knoxville Community Hospital with Representative Brooke Boden. There was a great conversation and discussion focused on administrative burden either delaying care or negatively impacting care.

In January, members had a great meeting with Senator Amy Sinclair!

They discussed important topics impacting Iowans, including delays in care and insurance barriers for Medicare, Medicaid, and VA patients, workforce shortages tied to education costs and Iowa’s declining birth rates, and what AI and technology could mean for the future of our industries.

It was an insightful, thoughtful, and productive meeting that left the group grateful for the opportunity to learn, connect, and advocate for our communities.

February visits kicked off with the WC office and staff welcoming Senator Guth for a casual roundtable discussion with Physical and Occupational Therapists. The visit allowed for open discussion about access to therapy services, patient care, and insurance.

The group appreciated the senator's time, thoughtful discussion and questions, and the interest he showed regarding the important work of WC's therapists.

Representative Brian Lohse met with Rock Valley Physical Therapy staff, along with three of the region’s clinic managers. Representative Lohse was eager to hear key topics and asked thoughtful questions about how the House can best support the therapy professions. The RVPT team also had great questions for Rep. Lohse, prompting further discussion on how legislation can better integrate with and serve the communities it represents.

They strongly encourage all practitioners to reach out to their local legislators and set up a meet-and-greet. It was a fun and engaging experience—and a great reminder that our legislators are regular people just like us, so there’s no need to feel intimidated!

President's Message | January 2026

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 02:43:24 GMT

Greetings, APTA Iowa!

Because personal and work environment stressors can take a toll on well-being, I’m excited to share a new resource with you: Healthy Practice Resource . The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, in collaboration with Healthcare Regulatory Research Institute, developed this innovative self-assessment tool to support licensee well-being and promote healthy practice across the profession. It offers a proactive approach by helping professionals identify areas for growth and access resources that support sustainable, healthy practice. There are 10 modules and certificates of completion awarded.

Congratulations to APTA Iowa delegates elected in December:

Colleen Louw, Chief Delegate
Pamela Duffy, Stephanie Kelsick, and Brenda Kemling

January Board Meeting Highlights

Discussed term/title protection.
APTA Iowa will continue to send professional courtesy letters to offices who advertise physical therapy and do not employ a physical therapist.
Physiotherapy is a term specifically used to define “chiropractic” in the Iowa Chiropractic Practice Act and does not infringe on the Iowa PT Practice Act title protection.
Approved an honor cord program to recognize student members who show high engagement and dedication to our Chapter and the profession.
Reviewed Bylaws survey results. Bylaws Task Force has met with APTA leadership. The Task Force is developing educational materials.

Advocacy

Discussions continue with Iowa Total Care and Wellpoint about prior authorization and administrative burden. Thank you for providing data. We will continue to rely on you to identify pain points.
Join us for APTA Iowa Day on the Hill - Wednesday, Feb. 25
Legislator breakfast with members 7:00-9:00 a.m.
Student activities at 11:00 a.m.
Join us at the Advocacy Reception - Wednesday, April 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm

Education

Enhance your clinical decision making in any setting by attending the spring conference!
April 15 and 16, 2026
Wed., April 15 PM – Issues Forum
Thurs., April 16 - Chapter Business Meeting and CEU: Integrating Neurodynamics and Pain Science presented by Adriaan Louw

Best regards,

Sue Bravard, PT, MS

President's Message | December 2025

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:07:19 GMT

Hello APTA Iowa!

Thank you to all who completed the Chapter Bylaws survey . The Bylaws Task Force has begun work on data analysis including theme identification to present at the January 2026 Board meeting. I also reached out to APTA leadership to request resources as we work toward alignment with APTA Bylaws.

APTA Iowa allocated resources to assist and support rehab agencies as they educate Iowa Medicaid and legislators about the unintentional impact of the speech code payment changes which went into effect December 1. Thank you to Doug Struyk (APTA Iowa Legislative Counsel), Steve Cassabaum (Legislative Committee Chair), and Randy Bolt (Payment and Policy Committee Chair) for guidance on strategy and messaging to advocate for services for this vulnerable pediatric population.

I attended the Payment and Policy Committee meeting with Iowa Total Care on December 16. We are also working with Wellpoint to schedule a meeting in January 2026. Your concerns about prior authorization, denials, and their peer-to-peer process were shared. We asked for an increase in the number of visits without prior authorization.

The recommendation by Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Rulemaking Committee to designate the doctor of physical therapy degree and many other health professions degrees as graduate rather than professional degrees could reshape our profession. This proposed rule is published for public comment in early 2026.

Congratulations to APTA Iowa members

Steve Cassabaum received the 2025 Private Practice Community Impact Award
Alissa Thompson was elected as a delegate for the PTA Council

Save these 2026 dates:

Early Professional SIG virtual happy hour – Thursday, January 22 at 7:00 p.m.
APTA Iowa Day on the Hill - Wednesday, Feb. 25
Legislator breakfast with members 7:00-9:00 a.m.
Student activities at 11:00 a.m.
APTA Iowa Spring Conference – April 15 and 16, 2026
Wed., April 15 PM – Issues Forum & Advocacy Reception (5:30-7:30 pm)
Thurs., April 16 - Chapter Business Meeting and CEU: Integrating Neurodynamics and Pain Science presented by Adriaan Louw

May your holiday season be filled with joy,

Sue Bravard, PT, MS

President's Message | October 2025

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 19:10:40 GMT

Happy National Physical Therapy Month!

As our profession’s recognition month comes to a close, I want to thank you for your continued membership and celebrate the impact physical therapy has on the health of your communities. Because our Chapter is growing, APTA has assigned one additional seat to Iowa’s delegation. Seven, instead of 6, colleagues will represent us at the House of Delegates in July 2026. Call for nominations for Chief Delegate and 3 delegates will arrive to your inbox soon.

Our association and its work are primarily volunteer-based. I’m grateful for those who serve on the Board of Directors and committees . Their dedication to and passion for physical therapy is palpable. Please join me in thanking them for their time and efforts.

As President, I attend the payor meetings with our Payment and Policy Committee (Randy Bolt, Steve Cassabaum, Blake Hardy, and Jason Putz). This team has developed positive working relationships with payor representatives and advocates for all physical therapy providers/services including sharing pain points from practice. Your input about insurance companies on the legislative priorities survey was also shared.

October Board Meeting Highlights:

Discussed plan for continued review and revision of Chapter Bylaws
First step: member survey to gather input on proposed changes
Survey will be released during the Chapter Business meeting on Nov. 10
Established an Early Professional Special Interest Group (EPSIG)
This group is for students in their final program semester up to 5 years after graduation.
Planning is underway! Watch for information in early 2026.
Launched the refreshed website

There was robust discussion at the Legislative Preparedness event . Several members signed up for the legislative committee and quick response team. This grassroots campaign is essential as we become more organized in our advocacy efforts at the state level.

Monthly continuing education offerings are sponsored by the districts. Attendance is open to all members of our association at no cost. Non-members may register for a fee. District business meetings occur on the same evening. If your district is the host, I encourage you to participate in the business portion.

Upcoming Events:

Mental and Behavioral Health and Physical Therapy
November 6
7:00 PM
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/_43MSMZOTZyS4SCIT8UQUw#/registration

Chapter Business Meeting
November 10
12:10-12:50 PM
Virtual meeting

Delegate Election
Electronic voting

Thanks for your partnership,

Sue Bravard

PT, MS

Summary of State Chapter Legislative Wins

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 01:23:46 GMT

APTA released a list of state chapter legislative wins in 2025. Below is a summary of those wins and a link to the APTA article.

Primary Care Recognition

Utah: PTs are now legally recognized as potential primary care providers for neuromusculoskeletal conditions, allowing patients to choose PTs directly under certain health plans.

Workers’ Compensation

Montana: PTs are now included in the definition of “treating physician,” improving direct access and payment for services in workers’ compensation cases.

Provider Credentialing

Wyoming: Insurers must complete PT provider credentialing within 60 days and follow set procedural guidelines.

Direct Access Improvements

Oklahoma: PTs under direct-to-employer contracts can treat patients up to 30 days without referral (starting Nov. 1).
Texas: Expanded direct access treatment time from 10 to 30 days.

Medicaid Access & Payment

North Carolina: Medicaid now covers PT services at private practices for patients 21+.
Massachusetts: Medicaid reimbursement rates for common PT codes increased up to 78%.
Arkansas: Medicaid must reimburse clinic-based PT services.
Colorado:
Defeated proposed Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction.
Secured 1.6% rate increase.
Prevented excessive plan-of-care signature requirements beyond CMS standards.

Prior Authorization Reform

Indiana:
No PA required for first 12 PT visits of new care episode.
Cannot deny claims solely because a referring provider is out-of-network.
Oregon:
Insurers must publish PA data.
Must use API to let providers check if PA is required and what documentation is needed.

Fair Copays

Ohio:
PT copays can’t exceed those for primary care visits.
Health plan issuers must clearly post PT coverage details.

Title Protection

Virginia: Only licensed PTs may use “DPT” or “doctor of physical therapy.”

PTA Supervision Flexibility

Louisiana, Montana, South Dakota: Reduced frequency of mandatory supervising PT visits.
New York: Passed legislation to move from direct to general PTA supervision (awaiting governor’s action).

Disability Placard Certification

Arizona, Arkansas, Nevada, Wyoming: PTs can now certify disability placard applications.

Diagnostic Imaging Privileges

Arizona: PTs can now order all necessary imaging for existing patients.
North Dakota: Expanded from plain films to full musculoskeletal imaging.
Rhode Island: PTs’ imaging order privileges extended indefinitely.

Workforce Expansion

Nevada:
PTs eligible for Student Loan Repayment in underserved areas.
Joined PT Interstate Compact (39th state).

Student Athlete Concussions

North Carolina: PTs added to school concussion protocol for evaluation and return-to-play clearance.

Telehealth

New Jersey: Extended telehealth pay parity for PT through July 1, 2026.

APTA Iowa Members Attend 2025 APTA Day on the Hill

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 16:18:43 GMT

On July 15, six APTA Iowa members attended the APTA Day on the Hill.

They met with Iowa Congressional senators and representatives to advocate for physical therapy services and reimbursement.

Thank you for your advocacy!

Photo 1 below, pictured left to right: Colleen Louw, Mike Horsfield, Pat Cross, Kerri Hurning, Sue Bravard, and Alissa Thompson

Message From the President

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:24:58 GMT

Hello APTA Iowa!

I’m Sue Bravard, PT, MS, APTA Iowa Chapter President as of July 1, 2025. It is my intent to communicate on a quarterly basis to update you on Board actions, Chapter activities, and important initiatives.

First of all, please join me in thanking Brenda Kemling, PT, DPT, OCS , on her exemplary service as President the past two years. I already greatly appreciate her continued involvement as Past President. Also, congratulations to Patrick Cross, PT, DPT , who joins the Executive Committee in the role of Vice President/President-Elect.

Your board met July 26 and approved the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan which consists of four focus areas: effective communication, evolving education, member engagement, and organizational systems.

As noted in recent communication, the vote on bylaws amendments did not reach the threshold for approval. APTA Iowa leadership has reached out to APTA to request guidance in order to meet their bylaws compliance deadline of December 31, 2025. Please watch for updates.

We are currently seeking volunteers for district leadership positions, the Communications Committee, and Federal Affairs Liaison. If interested, please contact us to learn more.

Consider joining us on Thursday, October 23 at West 48 in West Des Moines for a legislative preparedness event featuring our lobbyists and APTA Iowa committee leaders. Policy directly impacts practice and the 2025 state legislative session was robust. Come learn about how APTA Iowa is protecting and expanding the practice of physical therapy and how you can get involved. Registration will open in mid-August.

Hope August is filled with many good moments!

Sue Bravard

PT, MS, APTA Iowa Chapter President

Iowa PT Students Raise Funds for Physical Therapy Research

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 17:56:01 GMT

This year, physical therapy schools from Iowa participated in the 2023-2024 VCU-Marquette Challenge to raise $150,243.38 in support of the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research. The Foundation Board of Trustees and staff extend their gratitude to the students of Briar Cliff University and University of Iowa for their months of dedication to raising funds for the challenge. Together these Iowa schools raised $3,116. Since its inception in 1989, over 300 different schools have participated in the Challenge, raising over $4.7 million for physical therapy research.

The Marquette Challenge is a student-led fundraising effort to advance the Foundation’s mission to fund research and develop researchers to optimize movement and improve the health of society. Over the years, student’s support through the annual Challenge has helped the Foundation fund more than 700 researchers nationwide.

The top fundraising school earns co-naming rights for the next Marquette Challenge and will receive the Marquette Challenge traveling cup, a trophy inscribed with the names of the schools that have taken top honors since the Marquette Challenge began in 1989.

The top fundraising schools for 2023-2024 include:

1st place: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
2nd place: The University of Delaware
3rd place: The University of Miami

The Foundation congratulates VCU for earning the right to co-host the upcoming 2025 VCU- Marquette Challenge. While we encourage friendly competition between schools, participation in the Challenge at any level is what matters most.

Many schools were awarded a variety of additional awards based on the amount of money raised. You can see a list of the schools that earned these distinguishments on our website . Please join us in congratulating each of these schools for their hard work this year.

Funds raised through the Challenge support the Foundation in awarding grants and scholarships annually. These funds help us invest in physical therapy research to demonstrate the value of physical therapy and foster the development of physical therapy researchers dedicated to driving innovation.

After a rigorous peer review process, we are pleased to share this year’s Promotion of Doctoral Studies’ VCU-Marquette Award recipient, Elizabeth Maus, DPT, of The Ohio State University. Elizabeth’s proposed research is titled, Advancing the Role of Pediatric Physical Therapists in Supporting Motor Development after gene Therapy for Aromatic L-Amino Decarboxylase Deficiency .

We can’t wait to see all of you supporting the 2025 VCU-Marquette Challenge. Faculty and students in the state of Iowa are encouraged to visit the Marquette Challenge website at marquettechallenge.com to learn how they can support the Foundation and physical therapy research through the 2025 VCU-Marquette Challenge.

Thank you!

About the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research was established in 1979 as the only national, independent nonprofit organization solely dedicated to funding physical therapy research. The Foundation is the research funding organization for APTA. Since its inception, FPTR has awarded more than $23 million in research grants, fellowships, and scholarships to more than 700 promising researchers. Many of today’s leading physical therapy researchers, clinicians, and academicians began their careers with this support. Foundation-funded researchers have gone on to secure more than $930 million in follow-on funding. www.foundation4pt.org/donate

APTA Public Policy Priorities 2023-2024

kayla@capturemngt.com — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 15:19:45 GMT

The Public Policy Agenda for the Physical Therapy Profession

America's health care system faces historic challenges. The physical therapy profession can take them on.

APTA's biannual statements of our public policy priorities help us deliver our message to federal legislators and policymakers on the role of physical therapy in the U.S. health care system. They provide decisionmakers with an easy-to-understand roadmap of where we think our country needs to go and serve as a starting place for deeper conversations on needed reforms.

With the start of the 118th Congress, the "APTA Public Policy Priorities, 2023-2024" is focused squarely on issues relevant to federal legislators and is distributed to all lawmakers in Capitol Hill as well as to federal agencies including CMS.

The short video below provides a quick overview of the purpose and advocacy aims of the priorities.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

CAPTE Call for Comment on Standards and Required Elements

kayla@capturemngt.com — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 19:53:57 GMT

Let your Voice be Heard!

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education provides this opportunity for physical therapy education constituents and the public to provide feedback on the adequacy of the second draft of the Revised Standards and Required Elements. The Commission uses the standards and required elements to evaluate the quality of physical therapist and physical therapist assistant education programs and their relevance to student needs.

We hope you will provide feedback during this important comprehensive revision of the CAPTE accreditation standards. View the 2023 PT Standards and Required Elements Second Draft and the 2023 PTA Standards and Required Elements Second Draft . Then, please take the PT Survey and PTA Survey to provide your feedback. CAPTE needs to hear from you, so please participate in this survey and complete your comments by March 26, 2023.

The Glossary of Terms and a list of upcoming listening sessions are posted on the CAPTE Handbook page.

Please share this call for comment with your faculty.

CAPTE would also like to invite you, your faculty, and other physical therapy education stakeholders to provide feedback in the Call for Comment survey or during listening sessions March 20-24, 2023. Individuals may attend one or multiple sessions.

CAPTE Standards and Required Elements Second Draft Listening Sessions

Monday, March 20, 2023 12:00-1:30 PM Eastern Time
https://apta-org.zoom.us/j/82090715062?pwd=MC8vcXMralI1TnZFL3BhSy9ZN0ZzZz09

Tu e sday, March 21, 2023 2:00-3:30 PM Eastern Time
https://apta-org.zoom.us/j/83898493073?pwd=YmdWRFlSa2hNUlhlUVFCcjhtMmJydz09

Wednesday, March 22, 2023 4:30-6:00 PM Eastern Time
https://apta-org.zoom.us/j/86170005780?pwd=Nk11WGNRWHlVcFRDaVUzdG1oeHJZUT09

Thursday, March 23, 2023 12:00-1:30 PM Eastern Time
https://apta-org.zoom.us/j/89713041117?pwd=Z2tPazFPRjFKd1VZRUdWV3d2TUhGZz09

Friday, March 24, 2023 2:00-3:30 PM
https://apta-org.zoom.us/j/82342393457?pwd=OG5iTWNKTEVpN0FmR25wWVo4QXJpQT09

APTA Iowa Announces 2022 Olive C Farr Scholarship Recipients

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:41:35 GMT

APTA Iowa is excited to announce the 2022 scholarship recipients. These recipients were recognized at the 2022 APTA Iowa Spring Conference.

T he Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation established an annual $500.00 physical therapist student scholarship in 1983. An annual $250.00 physical therapist assistant student scholarship was established by the IPTF in 1995 which was initially funded by a contribution from physical therapists Steven and Susan Bell. In 2010 the IPTF increased these awards so that each year four physical therapist student scholarships and one physical therapist assistant student scholarship are awarded. The scholarships are made possible by a bequest to the Foundation from Olive C. Farr, PT, the first director of the physical therapy education program at the University of Iowa.

The scholarships are awarded to student members of the American Physical Therapy Association enrolled in accredited Iowa PT/PTA education programs who have concluded the first year of their accredited entry-level Iowa program. Award of the scholarships is based on demonstrated scholarship, potential for professional contributions and leadership qualities.

Olive C Farr Scholarship 2022 Recipients

Grant Milam : Grant Milam is a second year student in the St. Ambrose Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in biomedical engineering. Grant currently is involved in leading review sessions for his peers in the physical therapy program as a graduate assistant; volunteering in the St. Ambrose Pro Bono Clinic; and serves on an Academic Support Committee to help provide the resources students need to succeed in the classroom. Grant was initially drawn to physical therapy because of his passion for empowering patients who have undergone amputation to continue to pursue their own ambitions. After graduation, Grant hopes to complete a residency in neurology so he can be better prepared to care for his patients and ultimately teach in a physical therapy program to inspire others to care for this underserved population as well.

Julia Black: Julia is in her second year at Briar Cliff University in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program where she continues to share her passion for foreign language services. She serves as a Spanish-speaking interpreter in the Briar Cliff Pro Bono Clinic and is the founder of the North Central Region Consortia for the Pro Bono Network with foreign language at the forefront. Julia aspires to be a future physical therapist who bridges the language barriers in our society by advocating for access to the best possible care for all patients. She strives to treat each patient as a whole human being with heartfelt, compassionate care while continuing with extensive involvement in her professional development through the APTA. Julia would like to thank her parents and Dr. Soren Grieve at Briar Cliff University for their constant support and inspiration throughout her physical therapy journey.

Nathanael Seaberg: Nathanael Seaberg is a second-year Physical Therapy student at the University of Iowa. Growing up with a pediatric Physical Therapist for a mother inspired Nathanael to pursue physical therapy in order to create lasting change in the lives of both patients and families. Originally from Moline, Illinois, Nathanael attended Drake University for his undergraduate education, playing on the Men's Soccer team while earning a Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences. While at Drake University, Nathanael was named a National Alumni Scholar, served as President for the Student-Athlete advisory committee, and was selected as a First Team Academic All-American. Nathanael met his wife Mandi, a dental student at the University of Iowa, at Drake University and they plan on staying in the state of Iowa once they both graduate. In his spare time, Nathanael loves to coach and play soccer, fly fish, and read.

Morgan Dunahoo: Morgan Dunahoo is a current 3rd year DPT student at Clarke University, in Dubuque. Morgan first became interested in becoming a physical therapist after being injured in high school. Since then, her passion for physical therapy has grown. The aspect of physical therapy Morgan loves the most is being able to connect with patients and help them recover physically, mentally, and emotionally. She enjoys helping others reach their greatest potential - to be the best version of themselves. After graduation in May, Morgan plans to start working in the outpatient orthopedics/sports medicine world and continue advancing the profession of physical therapy.

S. Juanita Robel Awarded the 2022 APTA Iowa Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 13:19:14 GMT

DES MOINES, IA – (March 28, 2022) APTA Iowa is pleased to announce that S. Juanita Robel, PT, of Des Moines was awarded the 2022 APTA Iowa Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award. This award is the highest honor bestowed on a PT member of the association.

Olive Farr was born Sept. 22, 1895, in Waverly, Iowa. She was educated at Cedar Falls Teachers College, where she also taught. In 1922, she graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in physical education. She received her certificate in physical therapy from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. After eight years as a clinician, she became the first director of the physical therapy education program at the University of Iowa, where she remained until her retirement in 1963. She served as president of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association from 1946 to 1948.

About S. Juanita Robel, Catherine Stevermer, associate professor of physical therapy at Des Moines University, said, “Perhaps Ms. Robel’s most indelible mark on the APTA Iowa has been her staunch advocacy for professional association membership. Throughout her career as a Des Moines University faculty member, Ms. Robel encouraged many former students in their APTA Iowa involvement and leadership roles. Many former DMU students have served as delegates to the APTA House of Delegates, in addition to serving in district and top-ranking leadership positions in APTA Iowa. While occasionally serving as a vocal representative of the chapter membership, she has posed thought-provoking questions and stimulated discussion amongst the district and state chapter’s leadership team. Her willingness to present an opposing viewpoint provided a model for professional discourse during APTA Iowa board meetings, which ensured the board membership considered all aspects during decision-making. She has also encouraged and supported student involvement in legislative and federal advocacy experiences.”

S. Juanita Robel graduated from St. Louis University with a B.S. in physical therapy followed by a Master of Health Sciences from Washington University. She has been a member of the APTA for 45 years, serving on the APTA Iowa board of directors multiple times. She has served in the APTA House of Delegates as both a delegate and chief delegate.

Robel’s clinical experiences are numerous and varied. Her initial employment was at Younker Rehab in Des Moines. Later, she served on the faculty of Maryville University’s PT program. A serendipitous site visit lead her to visit the newly developed physical therapy program at Des Moines University. After 32 years, she retired from Des Moines University as an associate professor of physical therapy.

Robel will be recognized for this award during the APTA Iowa Spring Conference Business Luncheon on Friday, April 8, in West Des Moines, Iowa. Those who are interested in attending this luncheon can contact the APTA Iowa office for more information.

Care Initiatives Makes Donation to the APTA Iowa Foundation

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 15:01:17 GMT

APTA Iowa would like to thank and recognize Care Initiatives for their generous donation to the APTA Iowa Foundation.

APTA Iowa Foundation’s mission is to support current and future physical therapists and assistants by establishing, funding, and granting scholarships for students enrolled in Iowa therapy programs. The Foundation also supports research that optimizes treatment provided by physical therapists and assistants. This donation will truly make a difference, and we greatly value the support we have received.

Thank you, Care Initiatives, for your contribution and commitment to furthering the physical therapy profession.

To learn more about the APTA Iowa Foundation, please click here .

To learn more about Care Initiatives, please click here .

Pictured below: Jeramy D. Kuhn (Vice President – Chief Compliance Officer, Care Initiatives) & Leanne O'Brien (Rehab Services Coordinator, Care Initiatives) present check to APTA Iowa Foundation

Announcing the NEW APTA IA Communications HUB!

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 19:39:49 GMT

APTA IA has a new platform for you t o stay connected with us and your fellow members - the APTA IA Communications HUB!

We are so excited to roll out the HUB to foster a better connection with our members. We've spent nearly a year exploring options to help you engage with other members to progress both your personal and professional development. We have big goals to utilize this platform for mentorship, new grad and early professional support, new membership orientation, leadership and volunteer opportunities, shared resources, case questions, and APTA-Iowa updates. Check it out by logging on to the HUB today!

All members are eligible to access the APTA IA Communications HUB forums. To get updates and follow a discussion, please make sure to opt-in to the threads that you want to be a part of. We hope to foster an exchange of ideas, including questions and resources from our members, and hope that all of our members will keep opting-in and participating. The more members that join us will make the APTA IA Communications HUB a very robust exchange of ideas and information!

Please find the attached instructions to opt-into the APTA IA Communications HUB. If you have any difficulty opting-in please email us as mail@aptaiowa.org and we can troubleshoot.

2022 Olive C. Farr Scholarship Applications Now Open

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 20:09:40 GMT

Apply today for the 2022 Olive C Farr Scholarship!

The Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation will be awarding its annual Olive C. Farr scholarships to four physical therapist students and one physical therapist assistant students at the 2022 Spring Conference April 7-9, 2022.

The scholarships will be awarded to student members of the American Physical Therapy Association enrolled in accredited Iowa PT/PTA education programs who have concluded the first year of their accredited entry-level Iowa program. Award of the scholarships will be based on demonstrated scholarship, potential for professional contributions and leadership qualities.

Scholarship applications should be sent to APTA Iowa by Thursday, February 17, 2022 . The rules and eligibility for applying can be found on our w ebsi te .

We look forward to reviewing the submissions! Award winners will recognized at the 2022 Spring Business meeting during the conference.Any questions can be directed to the APTA Iowa office at 515-222-9838.

APTA Iowa Member Jordan Reed Named 2021 Emerging Leader

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 17:32:41 GMT

APTA Iowa would like to extend a congratulations to Jordan Reed, PT, DPT, who has been named a 2021 APTA Emerging Leader Award Recipient! Jordan is currently employed as the Director of Rehabilitation Services and Laboratory Services at Spencer Hospital in Spencer, Iowa, and has been an active member of APTA Iowa through district leadership and various committees.

“We are very proud to call Jordan one of our own here in Iowa," said Kory Zimney, APTA Iowa President. "We have many emerging physical therapy leaders in our state, and getting national recognition for one of them is an honor.”

The purpose of the APTA Emerging Leader Award is to identify and honor one physical therapist or physical therapist assistant "emerging leader" from each APTA component, a person who has demonstrated extraordinary service early in his or her physical therapy career. The individual should have made exceptional overall accomplishments and contributions to APTA, the component, and the physical therapy profession to advance APTA's vision.

APTA Iowa Announces 2021 Scholarship & Award Recipients

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 13:19:04 GMT

APTA Iowa is excited to announce the 2021 scholarship and award recipients. These recipients were recognized at the 2021 APTA Iowa Spring Conference.

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award

This award is the highest honor bestowed on a PT member of the APTA Iowa. It is named in memory of Olive C. Farr, whose bequest in 1983 to the Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation provides scholarships and loans to students enrolled in Iowa physical therapy education programs.

Olive Farr was born Sept. 22, 1895, in Waverly, Iowa, and was educated at Cedar Falls Teachers College (where she also taught), the University of Iowa where she graduated in 1922 with a degree in physical education, and the University of Wisconsin at Madison where she received her certificate in physical therapy.

After eight years as a clinician, she became the first director of the physical therapy education program at the University of Iowa where she remained until retirement in 1963. She served as president of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association from 1946 to 1948.

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award 2020 Recipient: Tracy Porter, PT, DPT, EdD

Max Shelton Friend of APTA Iowa Award

The Max Shelton Friend of APTA Iowa award recognizes individuals or organizations other than PTs/PTAs for exceptional service to the physical therapy profession in Iowa. It is named in honor of Max Shelton who was the founder of what is now the Shelton-DeHaan Company. Max was a vendor of physical therapy supplies for many years, he became a friend and supporter of our profession and played an active role in the development of the physical therapy profession in Iowa as both a patron and benefactor.

Max Shelton Friend of APTA Iowa Award 2021 Recipient: Rep. Shannon Lundgren

Lundgren was nominated by Jason Putz, PT. According to Putz, “Shannon has been an active listener to physical therapists in her district since being an elected official. She was instrumental in keeping MPPR out of the Iowa Medicaid payment system. She is very responsive to our questions and works well with APTA Iowa lobbyists.”

Shannon grew up in Dubuque Iowa raised with three younger sisters, by her parents Lynne & Rich Fluhr. She Graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School and then attended Midwest Travel Institute in Davenport Iowa and graduated with a certificate in Tourism Management. Shannon and her husband Charlie live in Peosta, Iowa and they have two grown daughters. Alexis is a business partner and the Operations Manager at their family owned restaurant, Trackside Bar & Grill. Sydney resides in Cedar Falls with her Husband Tony; and she works for Dupaco Community Credit Union. Shannon is also a certified Travel Agent and owns and operates Lone Palm Travel Co.

Shannon was first elected to the Iowa House in 2016 and is serving in her second term. As a member of the Iowa House, she has a proven track record of standing up for her constituents in District 57, and her voting record shows that she has their best interest at heart.

Shannon managed several complex bills early in her tenure including; the Ban on Abortions after 20-weeks, the Fetal Heartbeat bill, both an Adult and Children’s Brain (Mental) Health bills and addressed the states opioid epidemic with legislation that has had an immediate impact on those suffering with opioid addiction. Her work on complex bills along with her leadership skills has earned her the Chair seat for the House Human Resource Committee, a committee that works on health policy issues for the state. She continues to work on lowering the cost of prescription drugs, transparency in the states Department of Human Services and the Department of Public Health and works tirelessly on affordable access to healthcare for Iowans.

Shannon also serves on the Commerce Committee, State Government Committee, as well as the Health & Human Services Joint Budget Sub-Committee, advocating for access to care and fair reimbursement for providers.

Olive C Farr Scholarship

The Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation established an annual $500.00 physical therapist student scholarship in 1983. An annual $250.00 physical therapist assistant student scholarship was established by the IPTF in 1995 which was initially funded by a contribution from physical therapists Steven and Susan Bell. In 2010 the IPTF increased these awards so that each year four physical therapist student scholarships and one physical therapist assistant student scholarship are awarded. The scholarships are made possible by a bequest to the Foundation from Olive C. Farr, PT, the first director of the physical therapy education program at the University of Iowa.

Olive C Farr Scholarship 2021 Recipients:

Benjamin Mardis : Ben’s fascination with human movement began with a back injury in high school that led to his first experience with Physical Therapy. From 2015 to 2019, he took a deeper dive into the world of movement at Drake University as a Kinesiology major and Student Intern with the Sports Medicine Team. His ambition to positively impact the community around him by enhancing the health and motor performance of individuals in medical need led him to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Iowa. Pre-Covid you might find him working through material for his next test at a local coffee shop. When he is not studying, he enjoys being active outdoors with family and friends, playing golf, sand volleyball and exploring local bike paths or hiking trails. Today, he is grateful to his faculty and classmates at University of Iowa for challenging him to grow in new ways throughout his DPT journey. He is also humbled and very thankful to be the 2021 Olive C Farr Scholarship Recipient.

Sarandyn Curtis : Sarandyn Curtis grew up in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Growing up she enjoyed playing sports, spending time with her family and friends and attending and volunteering for school and community functions such as sporting events and fundraisers. At a young age she became interested in the field of physical therapy, as she tore her knee and fractured her ankle while playing sports. She went to physical therapy for both injuries and her experience was so memorable and positive that she wanted to pursue it as a career. After high school she attended Iowa State University where she attained a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Minor in Psychology. From here she moved to Des Moines and started to attend Mercy College of Health Sciences where she is currently in the process of attaining an Associates of Science Degree to be a physical therapist assistant. She has many interests and hobbies. She enjoys cooking, baking, weightlifting, listening to podcasts, playing tennis and cheering on the US Women’s National Soccer Team and the Iowa State Cyclones. She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends playing plenty of board games in the winter and spending as much time outdoors during the summer.

2020 PT Day of Service Highlight

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 20:26:24 GMT

On Tuesday, October 14, IPTA Member Teresa Reinig-Olesch helped to organize a PT Day of Service Event at the Humboldt County Hospital to help the nursing staff clean up an outdoor courtyard area for the acute care wing of the hospital. Over the years, the this area had become overgrown. The nurses wanted to clear it out and replant to make it more attractive for patients and families to enjoy. Teresa worked with the PTs and PTAs on staff along with the nurses, CNA's and friends to tackle the clean up. It took them two trips to their local recycling area with the brush they cleared out, and now they look forward to replanting the area com e this spring!

Great work Teresa and team for making positive impact for change in your community!

Help the IPTA PAC Raise $20,000 in 2020!

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 18:20:59 GMT

The IPTA Political Action Committee (PAC) has a long-standing history of raising funds each year to support the legislative efforts of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association. This year, we are raising the bar and asking our members to help us raise $20,000 in 2020! We know this is a very ambitious goal. We want to acknowledge the challenges our members have faced, and are still facing, with COVID-19. As a committee, we feel confident that we can work to engage more IPTA members to become PAC donors and help us meet this challenge. For the past 5 years, our PAC goal has been met by approximately 40 IPTA members annually. These members have given consistently to the PAC, which we greatly appreciate! In 2020, we want to increase the number of donors to the PAC by 100. Will you be one of the new donors? Donating to the IPTA PAC is easy to do online or by mail .

Last week was a busy week in Iowa. The primary election was held on June 2, and the Iowa General Assembly reconvened on June 3. Iowans turned out in record numbers, and by absentee ballot, to vote in the primary election for the candidates that will seek office this fall. To find out the results of the primaries, please click here . In the first three days of the abbreviated session, IPTA worked on the telehealth parity bill and licensure bill. We will continue to keep our members updated on these bills. These are both examples of how important it is for IPTA members to be engaged in our advocacy efforts and to consider supporting the IPTA PAC.

Jerod Gayer, DPT, ATC, co-chair of the IPTA PAC, shares the importance your PAC contribution will assuredly have on our profession.

“I have had the opportunity to experience first-hand the importance of our members’ participation in the IPTA PAC. While attending the IPTA Legislative Day several years ago to advocate on behalf of our association in our push for equal co pay legislation with chiropractors, a discussion my wife and I had with our state senator centered around the importance such legislation would have on our patients’ ability to access the physical therapy care needed to overcome the impairments our patients’ deal with on a daily basis. The senator proceeded to ask if our membership was united in support of this legislation, to which I resoundingly answered 'yes!'. He then followed-up by asking what percentage of our membership contributed to our PAC. When I begrudgingly informed him the number of PAC contributors was around 6-8% of our members, he responded by saying ‘Well then I don’t believe your members care about these issues. If they did, they would contribute to your association’s PAC.’ In his view, membership support via contribution to the PAC indicated support of the legislative initiatives important to our professional organization. This realization of how our politicians viewed the interplay between membership support for our organization’s legislative initiatives and active participation/support of the PAC was a game changing moment in my understanding of the importance the IPTA PAC plays in moving our profession forward. Now, arguably more than ever, we are calling on your support to help make the necessary changes to ensure our association’s voice is heard at both the state and national legislative level. Your support of the IPTA PAC will help us accomplish this!”

Click here to learn more about the IPTA PAC and why is so important to get involved today!

HELP US REACH OUR GOAL IN 2020! DONATE TODAY AND ADD YOUR NAME TO THE LIST OF PAC CONTRIBUTORS!

PPE and Other FAQ for Providing Patient Care During COVID-19

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 14:04:59 GMT

The mission of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) is: T o serve the membership and the public with excellence and integrity by advancing and promoting the practice of physical therapy through the coordination of advocacy, education and resources. During this COVID-19 pandemic, IPTA has provided a variety of resources, educational opportunities, and advocacy calls to action for members. As phased re-opening is occurring in Iowa, we have received an increase in inquiries regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), best practices for patient and employee screening, and other recommended safety measures.

IPTA supports guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). There is a large volume of ever-changing information being shared regarding measures to be implemented in healthcare settings. The purpose of this blog post is to highlight key CDC resources and summarize information available as of today.

The CDC web page COVID-19 Guidelines for Healthcare Personnel provides consolidated information. A key message includes: “Because the effects of COVID-19 vary among communities, healthcare systems will also need to consider the local level of COVID-19 transmission when making decisions about the provision of medical services.”

PPE

It is important to differentiate between standard precautions for all patient care versus transmission-based precautions (which are recommended for known or suspected infections). Standard precautions are appropriate when interacting with individuals without known or suspected infection with COVID-19. Transmission-based precautions are recommended in the presence of known or suspected infection.

CDC guidelines for standard precautions PPE:

Healthcare facilities should consider implementing policies requiring everyone entering the facility to wear a cloth face covering (if tolerated) while in the building, regardless of symptoms.

Patients and visitors should, ideally, be wearing their own cloth face covering upon arrival to the facility.

Healthcare personnel (HCP) should wear a facemask at all times while they are in the healthcare facility. When available, facemasks are generally preferred over cloth face coverings for HCP as facemasks offer both source control and protection for the wearer against exposure to splashes and sprays of infectious material from others.

CDC guidelines for transmission-based precautions PPE:

Cloth face coverings should NOT be worn instead of a respirator or facemask if more than source control is required.

Additional specific PPE recommendations for HCP caring for patients with known or suspected COVID-19 infection can be found here: Transmission-Based PPE for COVID-19

Screening and Environmental Control Measures:

Masking alone is not the sole preventative measure recommended. It is important to include daily screening of all patients and staff for symptoms of COVID-19. The CDC recommends screening all entering a clinic or facility for fever and symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Respiratory symptoms consistent with COVID-19 include cough, shortness of breath, and sore throat.

Finally, HCP are advised to reconfigure provider schedules and environments to follow social distancing guidelines, and to continue with frequent and high-quality hand hygiene. Examples of environmental controls include physical partitions, curtains to separate treatment area, adequate air flow systems, and frequent cleaning of surfaces.

Research continues and may lead to changes in CDC recommendations. For example, the University of Iowa has recently identified potential benefits of face shields over face masks including increased protection for the wearer, easier cleaning, improved comfort, and improved ability to communicate with patients and colleagues. The link to the article can be found here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2765525

Additional references:

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2006372?af=R&rss=currentIssue

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/infection-control-recommendations.html#monitor_manage

IPTA Announces 2020 Scholarship & Award Recipients

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 17:13:27 GMT

The Iowa Physical Therapy Association is excited to announce the 2020 scholarship and award recipients. These recipients will be recognized at the 2020 IPTA Fall Conference.

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award

This award is the highest honor bestowed on a PT member of the Iowa Physical Therapy Association. It is named in memory of Olive C. Farr, whose bequest in 1983 to the Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation provides scholarships and loans to students enrolled in Iowa physical therapy education programs.

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award 2020 Recipient: Kathleen A. Sluka, PT, PhD, FAPTA

Dr. Sluka is a professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Iowa. She received a physical therapy degree from Georgia State University and a PhD in Anatomy from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. After a postdoctoral fellowship with Dr. William D. Willis, she joined the faculty at the University of Iowa. She has been on faculty at the University of Iowa for 24 years. Dr. Sluka’s research focuses on the neurobiology of musculoskeletal pain as well as the mechanisms and effectiveness of non-pharmacological pain treatments. She has published over 200 peer-reviewed manuscripts, numerous book chapters, and a textbook on Pain Mechanisms and Management for the Physical Therapist. She has received numerous awards including the Marian Williams Award for Research in Physical Therapy and Catherine Worthingham Fellowship from the American Physical Therapy Association and the Frederick W.L. Kerr Basic Science Research Award from the American Pain Society. She is actively involved in the International Association for the Study of Pain, the American Pain Society, and the American Physical Therapy Association serving on committees, task forces and society boards.

Max Shelton Friend of IPTA Award

The Max Shelton Friend of Iowa Physical Therapy award recognizes individuals or organizations other than PTs/PTAs for exceptional service to the physical therapy profession in Iowa. It is named in honor of Max Shelton who was the founder of what is now the Shelton-DeHaan Company. Max was a vendor of physical therapy supplies for many years, he became a friend and supporter of our profession and played an active role in the development of the physical therapy profession in Iowa as both a patron and benefactor.

Max Shelton Friend of IPTA Award 2020 Recipient: James Hall, CPA

A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Jim worked for two years in public accounting in the Dallas/Fort Worth area prior to joining the Medicare Intermediary Audit Staff of Mutual of Omaha. Work at Mutual of Omaha included audits of hospitals, psychiatric facilities, certified outpatient rehab agencies and physical therapist in private practice clinics.

Subsequent to being promoted to Senior Auditor, Jim was hired by Healthfocus, an outpatient physical therapy chain, based near Houston, TX, to examine their Medicare reimbursement. After helping recover over one million dollars in Medicare reimbursement his first year on the job, Healthfocus promoted Jim as the Director of Internal Audit to begin the process of standardizing procedures among their 60 national clinic locations. Healthfocus was acquired by National Rehabilitation Centers (NRC) and Jim assumed their Director of Audit position and was transferred to their corporate offices in Nashville. A short time later, Jim moved to the Business Development Department where he performed due diligence work and helped determine business valuations on potential acquisitions.

Jim later worked with The Rehab Group (a privately held corporation also located in Brentwood, Tennessee), and oversaw business office operations and advised corporate management on how to maximize cash flow on their existing clinic operations. Through his corporate therapy work, his duties included:

• Negotiation of managed care contracts and clinic acquisition terms

• Financial analysis and cash flow maximization of existing clinics

• Preparation of cost reports

• Audits of clinics against company established benchmarks

• Establishment of communications between top management and clinical operations to increase performance and profitability.

Jim’s experience in the areas above led to starting his own company, which will celebrate 23 years in business in August 2020.

Rehab Management Services was founded in order to provide support to therapists in private practice who were struggling to remain independent in the midst of a continually changing payment and legislative environment. Jim uses his experience to assist therapists and their staff in making decisions regarding insurance contracts, healthcare regulations, and efficient practices. Additionally, Jim serves as a Federal Lobbyist on behalf of APTA and PPS and as a volunteer on the PPS Payment Policy Committee. In 2016, PPS honored Jim with the Friend of Private Practice Award.

Jim and Beth (his wife and co-owner), live in Cedar Rapids and have two children and a grandson.

Olive C Farr Scholarship

The Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation established an annual $500.00 physical therapist student scholarship in 1983. An annual $250.00 physical therapist assistant student scholarship was established by the IPTF in 1995 which was initially funded by a contribution from physical therapists Steven and Susan Bell. In 2010 the IPTF increased these awards so that each year four physical therapist student scholarships and one physical therapist assistant student scholarship are awarded. The scholarships are made possible by a bequest to the Foundation from Olive C. Farr, PT, the first director of the physical therapy education program at the University of Iowa.

Olive C Farr Scholarship 2020 Recipients:

Alex Harms : Alex Harms is a second-year student in Des Moines University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He will graduate with the class of 2021. His physical therapy practice and research interests include neurological rehabilitation, pediatrics, clinical communication, and PT education and academics. Professional highlights include attending the APTA CSM in 2020, participation in Des Moines University’s Mentored Student Research Program, and completing his first Clinical Education Experience in Lincoln, NE. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Philosophy from the University of Iowa in 2009. In 2017 he returned to his education and earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Simpson College. He is a coach of Olympic-style fencing and enjoys table top gaming with friends.

Emma Peeler : Emma Peeler is a member of the St. Ambrose University DPT Class of 2020. She has previously received a B.S. in Exercise Science and a B.A. in Psychology also from St. Ambrose University. Since starting in the DPT program, Emma has taken on the roles of President of Graduate Student Government Association and PT Clinical Coordinator of the SAU Interprofessional Health Clinic Board, a group of students who organize a free student-led clinic that provides PT, OT, speech and language pathology, and social work services to underserved members of the community. She has also taken advantage of the opportunity to run strength and conditioning sessions for a collegiate varsity cheer team and taught high school dance athletes about the concept of sport specific training at regional conventions in Des Moines, Iowa and Houston, Texas. Emma is looking forward to a successful career as a physical therapist in pediatrics or orthopedics and hopes to be involved with treating dance and cheer athletes wherever her careers takes her.

Cody Birely : Cody is a second year DPT student at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, IA. He will be finishing the didactic portion of his program in May and begin long-term rotations through December. After graduation in December, he plans on enrolling in a residency program, either in neurologic or orthopaedic physical therapy. Ideally, he would love to be in an outpatient setting where he can work with patients in the neurologic and orthopaedic populations. Outside of PT school, he greatly enjoys doing volunteer work, running, biking, camping, hiking mountains, hanging out with family and friends, eating lots of Whitey's Ice Cream, playing the pipe organ at church, and spoiling his chocolate lab puppy.

Erin Dunn : Erin Dunn is a second-year physical therapy student at St. Ambrose University. She has been interested in the field of physical therapy since she was in middle school. After going through physical therapy many times growing up, she grew to understand how rewarding of a career it is and decided that was where her passion was. She is actively involved in the St. Ambrose Student Physical Therapy Organization (SPTO) which allows her to participate in many service activities and give back to her community. She serves as a graduate assistant for the physical therapy department where she enjoys mentoring her peers, assisting with research projects, and helping organize weekly lab sessions. Outside of physical therapy school, she enjoys running, roller blading, and hanging out with friends. She is currently preparing to begin her long-term clinical experiences and she looks forward to getting more hands on experience. After graduation, she plans to gain clinical experience working in an outpatient orthopaedics clinic, while working towards a specialization in orthopaedics.

IPTA 2020 Legislative Day Recap

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 14:37:30 GMT

On February 26, members and students of IPTA met in Des Moines for our 2020 Legislative Day!

Attendees began the day at Des Moines University for an education and advocacy session. They then traveled to the Iowa State Capitol for meetings with their legislators. Thank you to all who joined us and advocated for our profession!

IPTA Spring Elections, Awards & Scholarship Applications

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 20:24:39 GMT

2020 Spring Elections & Award Nominations

Nominations are now being accepted for the following board positions and awards:

» IPTA Board Secretary

» IPTA Board Treasurer

» 2020 Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award

» Max Shelton Friend of Iowa Physical Therapy Award

For more information on the criteria for the awards and past award winners, please click here .

Click here for the the IPTA nomination form to nominate your award or board candidate by Monday, February 17, 2020. Please email your completed form to mail@iowaapta.org .

Olive C. Farr Scholarship Applications

2020 Olive C. Farr Scholarship applications are now being accepted

The Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation will be awarding its annual Olive C. Farr scholarships to four physical therapist students and one physical therapist assistant student at the Spring Conference April 16-18, 2020.

Scholarship applications should be sent to the IPTA office by Monday, March 2, 2020.

The rules and eligibility for applying can be found here .

We look forward to reviewing the submissions! Award winners and their families will be invited to the Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon Friday, April 17 at Des Moines University in Des Moines, Iowa, where they will be recognized and presented with their scholarship check.

Any questions can be directed to the IPTA office at 515-222-9838.

2020 Legislative Update

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 22:45:35 GMT

2020 Iowa Legislative Update

Monday, January 13, marked the first day of the second session of the 88th General Assembly (GA). On Tuesday, the Governor gave her third Condition of the State Address to Iowa’s lawmakers. (Full remarks here ) The Condition of the State address is accompanied by the Governor’s Budget Recommendations. (Click here for more information) .

The legislature is not beholden to any of her recommendations but they reflect what will be the topic of negotiation and conversation between legislative and executive branch leadership throughout the session.

The Governor’s relevant budget and policy priority highlights follow:

Expanding the use of telehealth:

• “Telehealth is reality today but we’ve only just begun to scratch the surface.”

• Provided a budget recommendation of $5.0 million of new funding for expansion of telehealth services.

• Allow schools to be recognized as a site of service so telehealth services can be provided to students during the school day.

Increase funding for substance use disorder treatment programs:

• $2.7 million state appropriation increase for residential substance use treatment Medicaid services.

• $3.3 million state appropriation increase for outpatient substance use treatment Medicaid services.

Increase in funding for the state’s Home and Community-Based Services and Habilitation Medicaid Programs of $3.3 million.

Create a Centers for Excellence pilot project to encourage innovation and collaboration among regional health care providers with the purpose of transforming care delivery for the better.

• New $500,000 state appropriation will be supplemented by community investments for this matching grant program.

• Grants will be awarded to two proposals that demonstrate regional collaboration to assess targeted medical needs of local residents, and establish partnerships between rural hospitals and health systems to leverage resources and develop a business model for long term sustainability.

Professional Licensure Reform:

• Adopt universal licensing recognition to allow professionals licensed in other states (for at least one year) to practice in Iowa if they are in good standing, pay applicable fees and meet all residency, testing and background check requirements.

• Waive initial licensing fees for first-time applicants from families earning less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

• Create a consistent standard so that when licensing entities review applicants with conviction records, they consider whether the circumstances of the crimes are directly related to the licensed profession, and provide a process for an individual with a criminal record to receive a predetermination of eligibility.

• Improve licensure oversight by creating a Review Commission on Licensure Standards that would subject boards and commissions that oversee professional licenses to a review every four years.

• Increase state funding for the MH system by $80 million to offset the reduced levies and to help regions and counties maintain and improve MH services.

• Use the state and regional partnership to more efficiently further access of Iowans to the MH system and to improve the quality of the system.

Bills of Interest

HF 2001 Telehealth Parity (Fry) (Human Resources)

Requires a health carrier to reimburse a health care professional for health care services provided to a covered person by telehealth on or after January 1, 2021, on the same basis and at the same rate as the health carrier would apply to the same health care services provided to the covered person by the health care professional in person.

Key Session Dates

Monday, January 13th--first day of legislative session

Tuesday, January 14th—Governor Kim Reynolds delivers state of the state message and releases her proposed state budget

Friday, February 21st— “First Funnel” Deadline for all policy bills to be approved by a committee in one chamber to remain alive (does not apply to bills in the Appropriations or Ways and Means’ Committees)

Friday, March 13—Filing deadline for candidates for state or federal office that are on the ballot for November 2020

Friday, March 20— “Second Funnel Deadline for all policy bills—must be approved by one legislative chamber and committee in other chamber to remain alive (does not apply to bills in the Appropriations or Ways and Means’ Committees)

Tuesday, April 21—100th day of the legislative session—last day that legislators receive per diem to cover living expenses for session (session typically raps up near this date)

Notes from Matt and Kate

We are excited to represent the Iowa Physical Therapy Association at the Iowa Capitol!

Feel free to contact us at kate@eidewalton.com and matt@eidewalton.com .

Helpful Links

Session Timetable

Find Your Legislator

Upcoming Events

IPTA Payment and Policy Update | PT Compact Licensure and Medicare

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 19:58:36 GMT

Issues with the Compact Privilege:

IPTA is working with APTA to bring to your attention to some activities related to the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact. The issue is about whether Medicare honors a compact privilege as a traditional license.

Some practices in Iowa have not been successful in utilizing the Compact Privilege to bill Medicare. We are encouraging you to read this if you are considering hiring an employee who has a Compact Privilege and not an Iowa license. Please see below for the history and what APTA/IPTA are doing to address this.

Background Information:

As of this week, 18 states are issuing compact privileges. Approximately 1,000 therapists have received compact privileges. Late last year, APTA and the PT Compact Board staff were alerted that Iowa was not allowing Medicare claims for services delivered under a compact privilege. Compact staff shared with APTA that one therapist in Oregon may have had a similar issue, but this matter was raised in 2018 at one time by one person and never raised again. To our knowledge, 16 of the 18 compact states have not received communications from therapists regarding difficulty with Medicare claims. WPS is the Medicare contractor for Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas. (Only Kansas is a non-compact state.) Missouri began issuing compact privileges in July 2018 and it is reasonable to assume that at least one Medicare beneficiary was served by a therapist with a compact privilege. Missouri has not identified any problems with Medicare claims. Nebraska began issuing privileges in April 2019. Like Missouri, Nebraska has not identified any problems with Medicare claims.

APTA staff have been working closely with the PT Compact Licensure staff on this topic to coordinate messaging and strategy. On December 18, 2019, APTA wrote the Center for Medicare and Medicaid services (letter attached) that details our read of the regulations on this topic. The gist of this letter: Compact privileges are the legal equivalent of a traditional license issued by a state licensing board. The PT Compact allows eligible physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to practice in member states. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants holding a compact privilege should have the same rights and responsibilities as those otherwise licensed, including the ability to enroll as a Medicare provider and receive reimbursement. In response to this letter, CMS has agreed to meet with APTA. We are working to set a date and anticipate this meeting will occur in January 2020.

What's Next?

In the APTA meeting with CMS, we will advocate that guidance should be published clarifying that compact privileges are equal to a traditional license. Ideally, this guidance could be released in the first quarter of 2020. If that action isn’t taken, our next opportunity will be to influence the 2021 Medicare physician fee schedule rule that will be published in draft form in July and final form in November.

APTA Letter to CMS Compact Privilege

IPTA Student Federal Affairs Forum Application

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 21:00:25 GMT

IPTA Seeking Student Applications to Attend APTA Federal Affairs Forum

Iowa Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) is seeking to promote greater physical therapist student understanding and involvement in legislative advocacy efforts on behalf of the physical therapy profession through collaboration with policymakers and other health care professionals. Part of this effort includes IPTA sponsoring one (1) physical therapist or physical therapist assistant student per year to attend APTA’s 2-day Federal Affairs Forum (FAF). FAF will be held at JW Marriott in Washington, DC, March 29 – March 31, 2020. Visit http://www.apta.org/FederalForum/ for more information.

Student Responsibility:

Pre-Conference Essay

• Topic: “My Experience and Involvement as a Physical Therapist Advocate”

• Essay submission along with resume detailing activity within APTA, advocacy efforts, etc.

• Deadline for submission: Monday, January 6, 2020 (email all documents to mail@iowaapta.org)

•Selected student will be notified by IPTA beginning of February

Conference Expectations

• Attend FAF conference, break-out sessions and legislative advocacy training sessions

• Attend scheduled meetings with Iowa Senators and Representatives

• Mentor under IPTA member attendee throughout FAF conference

•A ssist with writing thank you cards/notes following Congressional meetings

Post Conference Presentation/Expectations

• Present FAF summary to attending physical therapy and/or physical therapy assistant program; open to professors, students, IPTA members

• Send presentation recording, or written summary if recording not available, to IPTA Board of Directors

• Collaborate with IPTA member attendee(s) to develop post-conference soundbites for IPTA communication/social media

CMS Seeks Public Input

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 14:36:56 GMT

CMS Seeks Public Input on Patients over Paperwork Initiative to Further Reduce Administrative, Regulatory Burden to Lower Healthcare Costs

On June 6, CMS issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking new ideas from the public on how to continue the progress of the Patients over Paperwork initiative. Since launching in fall 2017, Patients over Paperwork has streamlined regulations to significantly cut the “red tape” that weighs down our healthcare system and takes clinicians away from their primary mission—caring for patients. As of January 2019, we estimate that through regulatory reform alone, the healthcare system will save an estimated 40 million hours and $5.7 billion through 2021. These estimated savings come from both final and proposed rules.

This RFI provides an opportunity to share new ideas not conveyed during the first Patients over Paperwork RFI in 2017 and continue the national conversation on improving healthcare delivery. We are especially seeking innovative ideas that broaden perspectives on potential solutions to relieve burden and ways to improve:

Reporting and documentation requirements
Coding and documentation requirements for Medicare or Medicaid payment
Prior authorization procedures
Policies and requirements for rural providers, clinicians, and beneficiaries
Policies and requirements for dually enrolled (i.e., Medicare and Medicaid) beneficiaries
Beneficiary enrollment and eligibility determination
CMS processes for issuing regulations and policies

Key Burden Reduction Milestones to Date:

We gathered feedback on burdensome requirements from medical and patient communities through other RFIs, listening sessions, and on-site meetings with frontline clinicians, healthcare staff, and patients and are working every day to reduce regulatory burden while safeguarding patient safety, quality, and program integrity. Achievements so far:

Simplified Documentation and Coding
Improved Quality and Operational Efficiency
Meaningful Measures
Changing CMS Culture

For More Information:

See the full text of this excerpted CMS Press Release (issued June 6). Submit comments by August 12.

2019 IPTA Fall Conference

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 14:45:02 GMT

Registration for the 2019 IPTA Fall Conference is OPEN!

Join us October 24 - October 26, 2019 at Des Moines University.

Learn more and register today!

Member Spotlight: Sammy Nelson, PTA

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 14:56:34 GMT

I graduated from Mercy College of Health Sciences in 2018 and cannot thank my instructors enough for providing a great education for me to be successful. I am a physical therapist assistant at ARC Physical Therapy+ at the Des Moines location. I am originally from Lake Mills, Iowa, but have been living in Des Moines since 2013.

Fun Fact : I met my husband playing slow pitch softball and we still play in the outfield together.

Why I love being a PTA : I used to have a desk job and always dreamed of working with people to improve their quality of life. My aunt, who also attended the PTA program through Mercy College of Health Sciences, suggested I become a PTA. This was a life-changing decision. It was a little scary at first, but I could not be happier with my career! I get to help people return to their normal activities, work and recreational fun. I have patients that return months after being discharged just to say hello and thank me again. Knowing I make a difference in my patients' lives makes my life a little sweeter.

Why I love being an IPTA member : I attended the fall conference as a student and met other PTA students, which allowed us to share our experiences as students. The continuing education opportunities and learning from leaders in our industry is insightful and motivating. The IPTA website is a great resource that helps me keep up with events and what is going on legislatively.

Got MIPS Question? APTA Has Answers.

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 16:00:47 GMT

MIPS is now in effect for many physical therapists.

The Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) is now in effect for many physical therapists.

APTA has recapped some popular questions from members across the country. If you are not finding the question you need answered you can email advocacy@apta.org . APTA members can also access the latest updates on MIPS and post questions, and review answers to other member questions on the Medicare MIPS Discussion Board on the Medicare Quality Reporting Hub.

Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award & Max Shelton Friend of IPTA Award

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 16:10:15 GMT

2019 Olive C. Farr Scholarship Applications are Being Accepted

2018 Olive C. Farr Distinguished Service Award & Max Shelton Friend of Iowa Physical Therapy Award

Click here for the the IPTA Nomination Form to nominate your candidate by Thursday, February 21, 2019. Please email your completed form to mail@iowaapta.org .

2019 Olive C. Farr Scholarship Applications are Being Accepted

Scholarship applications should be sent to the IPTA office by Thursday, February 21, 2019.

Review the rules and eligibility for applying.

We look forward to reviewing the submissions! Award winners and their families will be invited to the Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon Friday, April 5, 2019 at Des Moines University in Des Moines, Iowa, where they will be recognized and presented with their scholarship check.

Any questions can be directed to the IPTA office at (515) 222-9838.