APTA Advocates for Boosting Physical Therapy Workforce in Rural Areas of America

APTA Advocates for an Expanded Physical Therapy Workforce in Rural America

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is ramping up national advocacy efforts to confront the pressing shortages faced by healthcare professionals in rural areas of the United States. This initiative comes as part of a campaign urging Congress to enhance patient access to critical rehabilitative services that are often lacking in medically underserved regions.

On February 25, 2026, APTA submitted formal comments to the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health during a hearing aptly titled "Advancing the Next Generation of America's Healthcare Workforce." In these recommendations, APTA laid out a series of policy solutions designed to reinforce the therapy workforce in areas where access challenges are pronounced.

A significant focus of APTA's advocacy is the proposed H.R. 5621: the Physical Therapist Workforce and Patient Access Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to incorporate physical therapists into the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program. The program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayment to eligible providers who commit to a two-year service stint in approved clinics or facilities throughout rural and underserved regions. This addition is expected to not only expand the physical therapy workforce but also improve access to rehabilitation services for patients who have few alternatives in their localities.

Kyle Covington, the President of APTA, highlighted the importance of including physical therapists in the NHSC, stating, "This bipartisan legislation affirms the essential role of physical therapist services in preventing disability, managing chronic conditions, and restoring quality of life for millions of Americans. It expands access to care where it is needed most, ensuring that patients in rural areas receive the rehabilitative care necessary for independence, health, and well-being."

In addition to advocating for the incorporation of physical therapists in the NHSC, APTA is also urging Congress to consider broader reforms within Medicare payment structures. Specifically, they are calling for the repeal of the Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction (MPPR) policy. This policy has been known to destabilize payment rates for therapy providers, increasing the threats of clinic closures in rural communities.

Furthermore, APTA demonstrated widespread support for H.R. 5621 by leading a coalition of over 40 organizations, which included national associations, health clinics, and hospitals, in submitting a sign-on letter to Congress advocating for the bill. Notable organizations in this coalition comprised the National Association of Community Health Centers, the National Association of Rural Health Clinics, and the National Rural Health Association, among others. This collective effort emphasizes the urgent need for action and the critical support available for the proposed legislation.

To galvanize additional support, APTA encourages its members and the broader community to participate in this advocacy effort. They have established the APTA Patient Action Center, a resource that allows users to easily voice their concerns and support for the physical therapy workforce among their elected officials.

In summary, the APTA's push for legislative change and workforce enhancement comes at a time when access to essential health services is more critical than ever, particularly in rural areas. The incorporation of physical therapists into national programs can play a vital role in addressing these gaps and ensuring that all Americans receive the rehabilitative care they need. As the association continues to advocate for necessary changes, it serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible healthcare resources across the country.

About APTA

The American Physical Therapy Association, representing over 100,000 physical therapists, assistants, and students nationwide, is committed to promoting the profession and ensuring high standards of care. For further information about APTA, visit their official website.