Physical Therapy Licensure

The physical therapy license is one that I am familiar with because my sister just recently passed her exam and is now a practicing Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). Very similar to the BAR exam for lawyers, physical therapists must choose which state they want to become licensed in. Reciprocity is not allowed and if they decide ever to practice in a different state a large fee is entailed.

The Federations of the State Boards of Physical Therapy, uses a computer test, which covers all aspects of the job including knowledge of rehabilitation of the body, understanding of the different systems within the body, working with different age groups, their job duties and government regulations as well as much more. The test is given through multiple choice and seem to prepared to deal with Bloom Taxonomies stage of application. Many of the questions were formed as if there was a patient in front of them explaining there pain and what muscles were being affected. While many of the choices to the questions had correct parts, the idea for this test was to choose the BEST answer. I believe that these types of questions there is very little room for error, the test taker must be confident in their decision. My understanding for why this test is given in multiple choice question form is that so much information has to be covered since it is a comprehensive cumulative test, there are over 300 questions. The shear preparation of the test and the amount of time it takes the tester to complete, is why MC was their best option.

Since the field of medicine and health sciences is constantly changing, the need for professional development and continuing education is required. DPT's & PT's are given a website that they can go on to test their knowledge, increase their competence and also stay connected with new research.

https://www.fsbpt.org/
http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/pt/ptlic.htm