I have been in private practice as a PT in VA for over 20 years and have worked in various settings from out patient to extended care.  My experience of 32 years has allowed me to work and practice in neighboring states which have no such requirement regarding DPT or education ispecifically in the area of differential diagnosis and there is nothing that suggest these states (or VA) are experiencing an increase in complaints of less than desirable or safe care.

I am an advocate for education and believe PT's are some of the best educated professionals in the state when it comes to healtcare.  I do not believe it is necessary to require PT's to take specific course material to practice in direct access manner.  There is nothing anywhere that would support this issue that it is safer when done this way.  At the same time, having to have 4 hours of education specific to direct access every time a license is renewed is also folly.  This requires more time and energy spent by the PT Board which can be best spent in other areas.  It is a waste of time, money and energy.

I am not against education or bettering the profession as well as healthcare.  There is nothing here or that has been shown that anyone can sink their teeth into that shows this will do just that, improve healthcare or the profession.  It will increase costs to the public and will have a tendency to decrease access for patients that already have a limited opportunity of seeing a professional right now.