Ithaca College

On May 18th, 39 physical therapy seniors attended and participated in Lobby Day, an event sponsored by the NY Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association. 

These students were among over 400 physical therapists (PTs), physical therapist assistants (PTAs), and student PT/PTAs from across the state who met with their local state senator and assemblyperson to discuss two bills on that would benefit consumers of physical therapy.  The students from IC were assigned to their legislators based upon their home address in NYS.  Those with out of state addresses met with Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton (see photo) and the legislative aide for Senator George Winner.

The first bill that was discussed was the Fair Co-Payments for Physical Therapy bill, would limit the amount of co-payment for physical therapy to 20% of the amount reimbursed to the provider.  The second bill was Fair Access to Physical Therapy for Injured Workers.  This bill would omit the requirement for individuals covered under Worker’s Compensation to see a primary care physician before seeing the physical therapist.  The IC students were linked with practicing PTs/PTAs to discuss these bills with their legislators and ask them to co-sponsor the bills or thank them for being a co-sponsor. 

The event was an outstanding success, particularly for the students. They were somewhat apprehensive before the meetings, but returned realizing that this aspect of grassroots lobbying is not that difficult and very powerful.  The members of the legislature are interested in hearing from their constituents and the students were warmly greeted.  Many of the students commented they look forward the event next year as they move into the graduate phase of their program…even if they must depart at 6 am on the bus!