Welcome to the Navigating Travel Healthcare blog, inspired by the Anders Group Podcast. If you're venturing into the world of travel healthcare, whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, this post aims to provide valuable insights and tips to enhance your experience. At Anders Group, we partner with facilities nationwide to staff travel, allied nursing, and therapy needs. Travel healthcare offers exciting opportunities to work across the U.S., explore new places, and advance your career. In today's post, we're diving into the Compact Physical Therapist License.
What is the Compact PT License?
The Compact PT license allows physical therapists to practice in multiple states without having to obtain individual licenses from each state directly. Instead, you can visit the Compact PT website to apply for privileges in a compact state. Typically you can have the active compact PT license within a day (compared to weeks and lots of paperwork). Some states may have unique requirements, for example Arizona will still need fingerprints which can add to this timeframe. The Compact PT license speed allows travelers to search in more states without having to necessarily pursue the licensure first, knowing the cost to add a state is for sure worthwhile since likely obtaining once a travel contract is offered and accepted.
Important Considerations
To be eligible for a compact PT license, your home state must be part of the compact agreement. This is a bit different than how the nursing compact operates, so we do want to highlight this home state requirement. To qualify, you will need a PT license in your home state along with documentation, such as a driver’s license, proving residency.
The Compact PT states is a list that is continuously growing as more states pass the necessary legislation- It's always a good idea to double-check if your home state has joined the compact.
In the "old school" way, PTs had to obtain a license in each state, making it a lengthy and complicated process, especially when starting in travel healthcare. With the compact, this need significantly diminishes, allowing you to prioritize jobs you are most interested in without worrying about a mountain of paperwork prior to looking in a state, as well as, avoiding costs to add licenses you may not potentially utilize.
It is also important to note that the expiration date of a compact PT license is linked to your home state's license expiration. For instance, if your home is in Oregon and you obtain a compact license in Washington, the Washington license will expire when your Oregon one does.
Strategically, it is great to wait to add a Compact PT license in a state when needed/offered a contract. However, some facilities may prefer them beforehand to interview. Your recruiter will share this facility requirement as needed.
The Compact PT license is amazing and we are hoping OT and SLP Compact licenses will be official as well sooner than later! The compact license shifts the dynamic of having to chase multiple state licenses early in the travel process since state licensure could take weeks or months. Now many states are a possibility when on the job hunt without the upfront work and cost, to make the travel process smoother and easier.
Where to Find More Information
For detailed information about the compact PT license and to see if your state is involved, visit PT Compact's website. They provide comprehensive resources that clarify this innovative licensing option further.
We hope this blog post has given you useful takeaways and inspiration to pursue your travel healthcare adventure. Anders Group is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, helping to connect you with the right opportunities across the U.S. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights and stories from the vibrant world of travel healthcare professionals.
Happy traveling and professional adventures!
Watch the full episode of Navigating Travel Healthcare: An Anders Group Podcast to learn how the Compact PT License helps travelers work across states with ease.
We hope today’s insights inspire you to continue your travel healthcare adventure. Anders Group is your partner in success, ready to connect you with the opportunities you seek. Don’t forget to follow us on social and visit our website for more information. Chat soon!
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