Montana PTA Caucus Representative Montana’s Physical Therapist Assistants celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the profession Friday, September 27th. PTAs, student PTAs, and PTs enjoyed an evening of good food and enriched conversation. Past president, Jay Shaver, and current president, Christian Appel, gave heartfelt speeches on the importance of the PTA on the PT/PTA team, as well as the importance of PTA membership in the APTA.

History was made in Montana when PTAs were granted the full vote at the chapter business meeting the following afternoon. Joining Montana in this historic vote for inclusion is the Colorado Chapter of the APTA. At press time, the outcome of the Wyoming vote is unknown. Idaho has moved their vote to the spring 2020 meeting according to Chandra Price, PTA, Idaho PTA Caucus Representative. Laurie Roberts, PTA and Lori Graybill, PTA were named Co-PTAs of the Year by the Montana Chapter of the APTA.

Current issues being discussed by the PTA Caucus delegates are ideas for an updated welcome process/welcome kit for new reps and mentors, ongoing discussions of upcoming motions that affect PTAs, as well as the PT profession as a whole, as well as Core Values and PTA Pledge. Further discussion has been had on the effects of social media, especially with the recent CMS ruling and the negativity expressed after. PTA Caucus Representatives are encouraged to respond with positive and accurate information, as well as not being too quick with a response.

A PTA Caucus Town hall meeting is expected at CSM 2020 in Denver.