The USCIS is no longerallowing fully-qualified foreign-educated physical therapists to practice inthe US unless they have qualifications that far exceed American-educatedphysical therapists. This action harmsUS patients, who are already struggling to find qualified physical therapists.
A simple review of recentnews stories shows that Physical Therapy is the occupationin shortest supply. These supplyshortage are already showing up across the US. For instance, places like Texas,Arizona,and acrossthe US.
The USCIS’ actionis contrary to opinions by CAPTE, APTA, and the 53 State Boards of Physical Therapy,which includes all 50 states and other jurisdictions, such as Puerto Rico and WashingtonDC.
The AmericanAssociation of International Healthcare Recruitment is gravely concerned byUSCIS’ intent to deny the authority of the FCCPT to issue foreign physicaltherapy healthcare worker certifications. Musillo Unkenholt, who is a member of the AAIHR, is working closely with the AAIHR to develop a strategy and dialogue with the USCIS over this decision.
APTA reports theshortage of physical therapists could potentially reach over 27,000 in theUnited States by 2020, driven by a Bureau of Labor Statistics projected 34percent increase in demand in physical therapists over the next eight years.This projection assumes that physical therapists trained abroad will continueto immigrate. The USCIS decision will only worsen this shortage.
APTA reports theshortage of physical therapists could potentially reach over 27,000 in theUnited States by 2020, driven by a Bureau of Labor Statistics projected 34percent increase in demand in physical therapists over the next eight years.This projection assumes that physical therapists trained abroad will continueto immigrate. The USCIS decision will only worsen this shortage.