Recent Legislative Achievements:

Building Autonomy – 2023 – The APTA-SD successfully legislated the creation of independent physical therapy licensure board. Physical therapist and physical therapist assistant licensure transitioned from the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners to the South Dakota Board of Physical Therapy.

Improving Access – 2020 – The PT Licensure Compact facilitates interstate practice of physical therapy with the goal of improving public access to physical therapy services. The Compact preserves the regulatory authority of states to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure.

Advancing Techniques – 2018 – Dry needling became approved as a treatment technique for physical therapists that have acquired the knowledge and skills required for the competent performance by successfully completing a course of study in dry needling.

Protecting Patients – 2017 – Providing optimal patient care using evidence-based practice requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants are now required to complete continuing education requirements for licensure renewal.