Fairmont, WV – Representatives from Pierpont Community and Technical College’s physical therapist assistant (PTA) program traveled to Charleston recently for APTA-West Virginia Lobby Day at the Capital. The event brought together physical therapy students, educators, and clinicians from Pierpont, Marshall University, Wheeling University, and West Virginia University to advocate for the Copay Equity Bill and patient access to physical therapy services.

APTA-West Virginia is a chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association that represents physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the Mountain State via education, practice, research and advocacy.

“This event draws attention to potential issues that could affect patient access to physical therapy as well as practice issues related to the profession of physical therapy,” said Bryanna Ordiway, Assistant Professor and Clinical Education Coordinator for the PTA program. “It makes students aware of the legislative process regarding laws that affect physical therapy and is a great networking opportunity.”

During their visit, the group participated in meetings with delegates and toured the Senate chambers. Ashleigh Utt, a student within the program, attended the event for the first time.

“Throughout this experience, I learned a lot about what it means to really advocate in my profession,” said Utt. “I enjoyed this experience and learned a lot about the way the WV Senate works and why it is so important to be involved in APTA-West Virginia. We want to make sure that we are providing the best care possible for our patients.”

Pierpont’s physical therapist assistant program, established in 1997, was the first developed in the Mountain State. The two-year program prepares students to work under the supervision of a physical therapist to provide treatments to patients who have lost functional ability. Upon completion of the program, students are equipped with the knowledge needed to sit for a national licensing exam.

For more information about the PTA program, call (304) 367-4043 or visit go.pierpont.edu/PTA.