The Government Affairs Committee (GAC) serves as the advocacy arm of the American Physical Therapy Association Oregon, working to advance and protect the practice of physical therapy across the state. The GAC collaborates closely with APTA Oregon leadership, members, and the Oregon Board of Physical Therapy to shape policy that supports the advancement of physical therapy within Oregon.
Mission and Goals
The GAC’s mission is to strengthen the profession of physical therapy through evidence-based and strategic advocacy. Our priority areas include:
- Diagnostic laboratory tests and imaging.
- Durable medical equipment (DME) prescription authority.
- Prior authorization reform to reduce administrative burden and care delays.
- Fair and sustainable reimbursement for physical therapy services.
- Workers’ compensation policy that supports timely, evidence-based rehabilitation.
- Advancing physical therapists as essential providers in primary care.
These efforts are guided by the needs of patients, clinicians, and communities throughout Oregon.
Advocacy in Action
The GAC has a strong track record of meaningful legislative success.
Recent examples:
- HB 3824, which comprehensively modernized Oregon’s Physical Therapy Practice Act. This landmark update expanded and clarified scope of practice, including explicit recognition of dry needling, authority related to disability placards, and the use of diagnostic ultrasound. These changes better align state law with contemporary physical therapy education, training, and practice.
- We provided in person and written testimony in May 2025 for HB 3134 for prior authorization reform with future legislation planned for the long session of 2027.
- We provided invited testimony in January 2026 for the Senate Healthcare Committee work session on insurance reimbursement and denials. Chair Patterson's goal is to find solutions together with the involved parties.
How We Work
Our advocacy is collaborative and strategic. The GAC works in close partnership with APTA Oregon, the Oregon Board of Physical Therapy, and an experienced professional lobbyist to effectively represent the profession before legislators and regulators. We also collaborate with our healthcare partners in introducing and supporting legislation that supports access to care and payor relationships. This coordinated approach ensures that physical therapists have a strong, credible voice in Salem.
Support the Work
Effective advocacy requires sustained resources. Legislative engagement, professional lobbying, and policy monitoring come with real costs. Members and supporters are encouraged to consider donating to the Oregon PTPAC fund to help ensure that physical therapy continues to be well represented in state policy decisions.
If you have questions, ideas, or an interest in getting involved, please reach out. Member input is essential to shaping advocacy priorities and advancing the profession of physical therapy in Oregon.