Dear Members
Attending APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in February left me energized and inspired about the future of our profession. The opportunity to connect with fellow Chapter Presidents from across the country and hear how they are advancing initiatives in their states was both motivating and affirming. I was equally encouraged by updates from APTA National leadership as they unveiled our new Strategic Framework for 2030 and outlined a bold direction for the profession. While this is undoubtedly a challenging time for physical therapy, it is also an exciting time of opportunity. As physical therapists, we are problem solvers, educators, and movement experts. Now is the time to lean into those strengths — to help our profession grow and thrive, to expand access for our patients, and to promote the health and wellness of the public we serve.
- The new APTA Strategic Framework for 2030 provides a clear and ambitious roadmap for the future, and APTA Rhode Island is proud to be aligned with that vision. Central to this work is our focus on improving payment and reducing barriers to care through our legislative agenda. This session, we have introduced two important bills. The first seeks to require 12 visits of care before any insurance payer can mandate prior authorization, reducing unnecessary administrative burden and delays in patient care. The second bill calls for copay parity — requiring insurance payers to charge patients the same copay for physical therapy services as they do for primary care physicians. As direct access providers, physical therapists should serve as the entry point for musculoskeletal care. Copay parity would significantly improve affordability and accessibility for consumers seeking physical therapy services.
- APTA RI remains committed to being the primary resource for our members and components across the state. Whether through affordable in-person and virtual continuing education, meaningful networking opportunities, or support with payment and practice issues, we are here for you. At the same time, we continue to raise consumer awareness about the value of physical therapy. We look forward to returning to local YMCAs this October to provide Falls Prevention screenings and counseling, and our Neuro SIG is hosting a Balance Screening event this month at the MS Dream Center. These outreach efforts reflect who we are — movement experts dedicated not only to treating injury, but to promoting lifelong health and wellness in our communities.
As we look ahead, I invite each of you to consider how you can become more involved in shaping the future of our profession. Whether by serving on a committee, supporting our legislative efforts, mentoring a colleague or student, or participating in community outreach events, your voice and engagement matter. Our profession grows stronger when more of us step forward to lead, collaborate, and advocate. This is our time to harness our collective expertise and energy to ensure physical therapy continues to evolve, expand, and thrive.
Together, by aligning our efforts with the national vision and advancing meaningful change here in Rhode Island, we will continue to strengthen our profession and expand our impact. Thank you for your commitment to our patients, our profession, and to one another.
Tracy Gannon
APTA RI President
