On Saturday, January 10, 2026, DPT and PTA student-members from across New Jersey gathered at Kean University for the 2026 APTANJ Student Conclave, an annual event that continues to bring the state’s physical therapy student community together in meaningful ways. With over 100 registered student attendees and the support of over a dozen sponsoring organizations, the Conclave reflected strong engagement from both students and industry partners. APTANJ was encouraged by this positive response, which speaks to the value of creating student-centered programming and signals exciting opportunities for continued growth and collaboration in the years ahead. Designed as a half-day experience, the event offered a thoughtful blend of education, networking, and career-focused programming aimed at supporting students as they transition from the classroom to clinical practice while navigating the nuances and evolving landscape of the physical therapy profession.

A standout feature of this year’s Conclave was the involvement of Jimmy McKay, host of the nationally recognized PT Pintcast, a weekly podcast dedicated to advancing all aspects of the physical therapy profession. Serving as the panel discussion host, Jimmy brought energy, humor, and thoughtful perspective to the day’s programming. His engaging style helped create an approachable and dynamic atmosphere that resonated strongly with both DPT and PTA students.

In addition to moderating panel discussions, Jimmy live-casted an episode of the PT Pintcast directly from the Conclave, offering students a unique opportunity to experience a national platform focused on professional growth, innovation, and advocacy within physical therapy. His ability to explore the profession from multiple viewpoints — spanning clinical practice, career development, leadership, and personal growth — added exceptional value to the event. Through meaningful dialogue and entertaining insights, Jimmy highlighted the diverse pathways available to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants alike.

Throughout the day, students participated in educational sessions led by experienced clinicians, educators, and APTANJ leaders. Topics focused on career readiness, navigating post-graduation decisions, understanding varied practice settings, and pursuing long-term professional success. Panel discussions, expertly guided by Jimmy McKay, encouraged open conversation and reflection, allowing students to gain honest, real-world perspectives on the profession.

Networking remained a central component of the 2026 Student Conclave. Students connected with licensed physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and APTANJ leaders during both structured and informal networking opportunities. These conversations offered valuable mentorship, career guidance, and perspective across a wide range of practice areas, including outpatient orthopedics, acute care, pediatrics, geriatrics, and sports rehabilitation.

The Conclave also reinforced the importance of continued involvement with APTA and APTANJ beyond graduation. Students learned how association membership supports advocacy, professional development, leadership opportunities, and lifelong learning, reinforcing the value of staying engaged at both the state and national levels.

The energy, collaboration, and shared enthusiasm present throughout the day reflected the strength of New Jersey’s physical therapy student community. The 2026 APTANJ Student Conclave not only provided students with practical tools and meaningful connections, but also delivered inspiration through voices like Jimmy McKay’s—who continue to elevate conversations around the DPT and PTA experience nationwide.

The day began with an impassioned opening address from APTANJ President Owen Legaspi of A Plus Physical Therapy, who set the tone for the Conclave by emphasizing professional engagement, leadership, and lifelong involvement in APTA, while framing the goals of the day’s programming. He was joined early in the program by APTANJ Vice President Anthony Falco, PT, DPT, and Jennifer Pasram, PT, DPT, Chair of the Student Special Interest Group, who addressed the audience to formally introduce the event, outline expectations for the day, and highlight the value of APTANJ membership and student-focused initiatives, including the Sheila Nicholson Professional Leadership Sponsorship. Their remarks reflected the significant work both leaders contributed behind the scenes, as Anthony and Jennifer played a central role in shaping the Conclave — helping to identify key topics, select speakers, and ensure the program remained closely aligned with the educational, professional, and leadership needs of DPT and PTA students.

The morning sessions featured expert-led presentations from Lisa Gosweiler, MSPT, CSLP of First Steps Student Loan Solutions, who addressed financial literacy and student loan management; Michael Virgile, PT, DPT, CSCS, Regional Director at Spear Physical Therapy, who spoke on leadership development and career progression; and Rocco Pantina, PT, DPT, Clinical Director, alongside Michael Zolotnitsky, PT, DPT, Director of Marketing for Alliance Orthopedics, who offered meaningful insights on clinical excellence, practice growth, and branding in today’s healthcare landscape.

Following lunch, Holly Melao, PTA of Atlantic Health shared a personal and inspiring account of her professional journey as a PTA, offering students a relatable and authentic perspective on career development. Her talk served as a natural transition into the afternoon panel discussions, which were led by Jimmy McKay of the nationally recognized PT Pintcast. Jimmy’s engaging and thoughtful moderation encouraged open dialogue while highlighting the many pathways available within both DPT and PTA careers.

The panel sessions began with APTANJ Delegate participants Ben Aguila, PT, DPT; Doula Riley, PT, DPT; and Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela, PT, DPT, who discussed their experiences in advocacy, leadership, and national association involvement. They were joined by Brooke Pantano, PT, DPT (Neuro SIG, Kessler Neuro Rehabilitation), Melanie Llanes, PT, DPT (Best Self Wellness), and Matthew Glassof, PT, DPT (NYU Langone), who shared diverse perspectives across specialty practice settings. The interview portion concluded with Marla Ranieri, PT, DPT, OCS, Head of Clinical Innovation and Clinical Strategy at Prompt Health, who led a forward-thinking discussion on the challenges and opportunities surrounding technology integration in modern physical therapy practice.

APTANJ extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the many sponsors whose generous support made the 2026 Student Conclave possible and who took time to engage directly with students throughout the day. Sponsors included A Plus Rehab, Alliance Orthopedics, Strive Physical Therapy, JAG Physical Therapy, IvyRehab, ProCare Rehabilitation, Thompson Healthcare and Sports Medicine, First Steps Student Loan Solutions, UTS Therapy Solutions, Union County Orthopaedic Group, Spear Physical Therapy, CareOne, PT Solutions, Kessler Rehabilitation, and Prompt Health EHR. Their presence provided students with valuable opportunities to learn about employment pathways, clinical cultures, and professional growth opportunities, further enriching the Conclave experience.

The positive experience and strong engagement achieved throughout the day would not have been possible without the valued partnership of Kean University’s Department of Physical Therapy. APTANJ extends sincere gratitude to Program Director Thomas Koc, PT, DPT, and Professor John Lee, PT, DPT, whose leadership, collaboration, and support were instrumental in creating an environment that fostered learning, connection, and professional growth. Their commitment to student development and partnership with APTANJ played a critical role in delivering a meaningful and successful event for all involved. We thank Kean PT faculty and students for all of the hard work and extra time that was put in to ensure every detail was covered!

APTANJ proudly celebrates the success of the 2026 Student Conclave and remains committed to continuing this impactful tradition for future generations of physical therapy professionals. We encourage members to stay engaged and connected as additional educational programs and networking opportunities are currently in development and will be announced soon, with a continued focus on bringing together PTs, PTAs, students, practices, and industry partners for meaningful knowledge exchange, mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth. Thank you from APTANJ to everyone involved!

Appendix: What We’ve Learned — Key Takeaways from the 2026 APTANJ Student Conclave

New Jersey Has Exceptional Physical Therapy Students

One of the most immediate and lasting impressions from the Student Conclave was the caliber of New Jersey’s PTA and DPT students. From the moment doors opened, students arrived early on a Saturday morning—punctual, professional, engaged, and eager to connect. Their enthusiasm for learning, openness to conversation, and willingness to ask thoughtful questions reflected a student body that is not only academically prepared, but genuinely invested in the future of the profession. These students demonstrated curiosity about career pathways, leadership, advocacy, and lifelong learning, reinforcing that New Jersey is developing a strong pipeline of motivated, capable, and forward-thinking physical therapy professionals.

APTANJ’s Professional Leadership and Volunteers Are a Powerful Asset

The event further highlighted the strength of APTANJ’s leadership and volunteer community. Association leaders, delegates, and volunteers consistently demonstrated a high level of preparation, clarity, and professionalism in their engagement with students. Their ability to speak knowledgeably about the profession, advocacy efforts, and career development — while remaining approachable and student-focused — underscored the value of active association involvement. Perhaps most importantly, there was a clear willingness to “pay it forward,” with leaders eager to mentor, guide, and support the next generation. This depth of experience, passion, and commitment represents a critical foundation for APTANJ’s continued influence and growth.

Industry and Professional Partners Are Engaged and Ready to Collaborate

The response and participation from industry and professional partners reinforced that there is strong alignment between APTANJ and the broader physical therapy community. Sponsors and partners were not only present, but actively engaged  —taking time to speak with students, answer questions, and share insight into clinical practice, organizational culture, and professional opportunities. Their enthusiasm to connect, contribute, and invest in student development demonstrated a shared commitment to the profession’s future. This level of engagement presents a meaningful opportunity to continue building mutually beneficial partnerships that support education, mentorship, workforce development, and innovation.

Momentum Worth Sustaining and Growing

Collectively, these takeaways point to a powerful and encouraging reality: APTANJ is well-positioned at the intersection of motivated students, dedicated leaders, and engaged partners. Events like the Student Conclave create space for meaningful connection, knowledge exchange, and inspiration — and the response to this year’s program reinforces the importance of continuing to invest in and expand these opportunities. By sustaining this momentum, APTANJ can further strengthen its impact, broaden its reach, and continue to grow its role as a convener, advocate, and leader within the physical therapy community.

Seton Hall University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program proudly hosted the annual APTA Advocacy Dinner, bringing together students, faculty, and leaders in the profession to celebrate the power of advocacy and the future of physical therapy.

The evening opened with remarks from Dr. Randy Kolodny, SHU Professor, and Juliana Samuel, APTA Student Liaison, who set the stage with the event’s inspiring theme — encouraging everyone to dream boldly, build purposefully, and redefine the future of our profession.


We were honored to welcome guest speakers from APTA New Jersey — Dr. Spiridoula Riley, APTANJ Delegate and Federal Affairs Liaison, and Dr. Owen Legaspi — who shared invaluable insights on legislative advocacy, professional leadership, and the role each of us plays in shaping the next generation of physical therapy.


Huge thanks to our speakers, organizers, and attendees for making this event a success! Together, we’re not just imagining the future of PT — we’re building it.

Are you interested in having APTANJ Leadership to speak with your students or staff? We appreciate the opportunity to meet and promote the benefits and advantages of our association. Click here to reach out and learn more!

The sponsorship is given to a maximum of one student and one new professional, PT or PTA, to attend the APTA House of Delegates. The House of Delegates is the policy-making body of the APTA. The sponsorship provides an opportunity for leadership development and mentorship, through observation and participation in the delegate process, including: preparation, motion development, board of directors elections, collaboration with other chapters and sections and voting on motions. All airfare, ground transportation, hotel, and meal costs to attend the House of Delegates will be covered.

The 2026 House of Delegates will be held in Portland, OR, July 12-13.

Student Requirements:

1.)    Must be a current APTANJ member.

2.)    Must live or attend PT/PTA school in NJ.

3.)    Must be able to attend the APTA House of Delegates in its entirety.

4.)    Must be able to attend three pre-HOD preparation meetings; either in person or via conference call (dates TBD).

5.)    Must apply to be a Student Usher at the APTA House of Delegates (application due in summer of 2026).

6.)    Must attend all NJ Caucus meetings while at the APTA House of Delegates.

New Professional Requirements:

1.)    Must be a current APTANJ member

2.)    Must live or work in NJ.

3.)    Recent PT/PTA school graduate (within the last 5 years).

4.)    Must be able to attend the APTA House of Delegates in its entirety.

5.)    Must be able to attend three pre-HOD preparation meetings either in person or via conference call (dates TBD).

6.)    Must attend all NJ Caucus meetings while at the APTA House of Delegates.

7.)    Must attend at least one other APTANJ meeting or event during the calendar year of the HOD being attended (e.g. district meeting, chapter meeting, pub night, fundraiser, etc.).

If you are interested, please click here to download the application. Please email completed applications to info@aptanj.org by December 26th.

Leaders from the American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey (APTANJ) traveled to APTA headquarters in Alexandria, VA to participate in APTA CommUNITY Week 2025, joining components from across the country for several days of collaboration, learning, and strategic engagement. This annual event showcases APTA’s commitment to strengthening the profession through shared leadership, innovation, and meaningful connection between state components and national leadership.

A central highlight of the week was the New President and Executive Director Orientation, a cornerstone program designed to equip component leaders with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to guide their chapters effectively. Representing APTANJ at this year’s orientation were Owen Legaspi, PT, DPT, current APTANJ President, and John McInerney, Executive Director of APTANJ.

Strengthening Leadership Through Connection

Throughout the orientation, APTANJ leadership engaged in sessions focused on governance best practices, advocacy priorities, membership engagement strategies, and the evolving national landscape of physical therapy. The program created opportunities for leaders to exchange ideas, deepen their understanding of APTA’s strategic initiatives, and strengthen partnerships between state chapters and national leadership.

President Owen Legaspi contributed perspectives on advancing APTANJ’s forward-looking vision, while Executive Director John McInerney collaborated with national staff and fellow directors on operational excellence and component support systems.

Also attending was Nancy R. Kirsch, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA, APTANJ Board Member and immediate past President of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Dr. Kirsch brought her decades of leadership experience to the event, offering valuable insights on regulation, ethics, and professional standards.

Collaboration and Momentum

Beyond the orientation, APTA CommUNITY Week offered opportunities for component leaders to connect with APTA staff, participate in cross-component discussions, and celebrate shared accomplishments across the profession. The event reaffirmed the importance of unity and collective leadership in advancing patient care and supporting physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students nationwide.

APTANJ’s participation reflects the chapter’s ongoing commitment to strong governance, proactive leadership development, and alignment with national priorities. The insights and relationships formed during CommUNITY Week will help guide APTANJ’s initiatives in 2025 and beyond—ensuring the chapter remains a vibrant and influential voice within the profession.

As APTA continues to foster collaboration across its components, APTANJ leaders return to New Jersey energized and equipped to serve their members and the broader physical therapy community with renewed purpose. APTANJ extends sincere thanks to APTA for organizing and supporting this important event, and congratulates national leadership for continuing to strengthen the association through innovative gatherings that build unity, align strategies, and shape a shared vision for the future.

Social media is flooded this week with news of a recommendation to exclude PT academic programs from the definition of professional degree programs, along with those of numerous other health care professions. If adopted, the impact will be to reduce borrowing capacity for students in these programs.

APTA has been engaged on this issue since its legislative inception and is currently part of a coalition of 55 organizations fighting this recommendation.  We will forward an APTA Action Center alert to you in the coming week to make it easy for you to lend your voice to that effort.  It is important to note that this recommendation has come from a committee with no rule-making authority, and a formal rule will not be proposed by the Department of Education until January.

Click here to read APTA's recent bulletin on this issue.

Click here to review details on H.R.1 Legislation that proposes loan caps that threaten access to professional degree programs.

APTANJ is thrilled to cheer on our very own Dan Staats, PT, DPT — Shark Tank winner and proud APTANJ member! Catch his inspiring keynote at APTA’s Future of Rehab Therapy Summit. You won’t want to miss it!

Dan will be kicking off the summit as the keynote speaker. From his early days as a physical therapist exploring new treatment tools to co-founding a business that landed a coveted spot on “Shark Tank,” Staats will share an honest, behind-the-scenes look at how curiosity, creativity, and clinical insight sparked a startup — and what happened when he stepped into the tank. Attendees will gain insight on his lessons learned and get a candid look at the challenges and rewards of innovation and building something from the ground up.

To learn more and register for the event, please visit: https://www.apta.org/article/2025/05/13/shark-tank-winner-keynote-apta-future-of-rehab-therapy-summit

The key objectives of this White Paper are to:

• Provide a comprehensive overview of cannabis use in New Jersey
• Explore the potential role of physical therapists in supporting patients who use cannabis
• Address the knowledge gap in cannabis education for physical therapists
• Discuss the future of physical therapy in relation to cannabis

Additionally, this comprehensive guide includes:

• Legal Framework: Current laws and regulations in New Jersey
• Patient Demographics: Who is using cannabis and for what purposes
• Medical Applications: Common uses of cannabis in healthcare
• Evidence Review: Current research on efficacy, safety, and risks

This resource is created by a dedicated group of Physical Therapists with cannabis experience and expertise and seeks to deliver actionable insights for the modern physical therapy practice. If your patients ask about cannabis, now you’ll have practical insights to navigate their care in a knowledgeable and effective way.

To learn more, download the complete White Paper here:

aptanj_cannabis_pt_nj.pdf  

On May 7, 2024, The American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey (APTANJ) leadership team delivered comprehensive presentations to the graduating class of Seton Hall University's Physical Therapy program, emphasizing the critical importance of professional association membership in career development. The event, hosted at the School of Health and Medical Sciences campus in Nutley, NJ, served as part of the students' final Professional Development class.

Owen Legaspi, PT, DPT, President of APTANJ, John McInerney, Executive Director of APTANJ, and Brooke Pantano, PT, DPT, Chair of the APTANJ Early Professional Special Interest Group (EP-SIG) and Neurologic Physical Therapy Resident at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, addressed the soon-to-be professionals at the invitation of Jessica Dunn, DPT, Director of Clinical Education, and Lorene Cobb, P.T., D.P.T., Ed.D., Assistant Professor of the Department of Physical Therapy and Vice Chair of the APTANJ Pediatric Special Interest Group.

"Professional association membership represents a commitment not only to one's career but to the advancement of the physical therapy profession as a whole," stated Legaspi during his address. "By engaging with APTANJ, these graduates will have access to resources that will help shape their professional identity and contribute to evidence-based practice in our field."

The presentations highlighted multiple benefits of APTANJ membership, focusing particularly on four key areas: adherence to professional standards, access to continuing education opportunities, mentoring relationships, and professional networking. The speakers emphasized how these elements work together to create a foundation for successful, ethical practice and career longevity.

McInerney elaborated on the association's commitment to supporting new graduates: "The transition from student to practicing clinician presents unique challenges. APTANJ provides structured support during this critical period through our Early Professional Special Interest Group, continuing education programs tailored to new professionals, and advocacy efforts that directly impact workplace conditions."

The APTANJ leadership team's engagement with Seton Hall's graduating class exemplifies the association's dedication to professional development and its commitment to fostering relationships with educational institutions throughout New Jersey. This outreach initiative aligns with APTANJ's broader mission of advancing physical therapy practice, research, and education.

Pantano, who leads the Early Professional Special Interest Group, shared insights from her recent transition from student to practicing clinician: "Membership in APTANJ provided me with a community of peers and mentors who understood the challenges I was facing. Through the EP-SIG, new graduates can find support, guidance, and opportunities for leadership development that simply aren't available elsewhere."

The presentation included information about APTANJ's advocacy efforts at the state level, the association's role in shaping healthcare policy, and opportunities for continuing education that help members stay at the forefront of evidence-based practice. Speakers also addressed the financial considerations of membership, highlighting student discounts and the return on investment that comes through professional advancement opportunities.

Faculty member Dr. Dunn commented on the value of the presentation: "Having APTANJ leadership address our students directly reinforces the classroom discussions we've had about professional responsibility and lifelong learning. These students are entering the profession at a time of significant change in healthcare delivery, and association membership will help them navigate these changes successfully."

The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which students engaged directly with the APTANJ representatives about specific benefits, leadership opportunities, and how to maximize their membership experience. Many students expressed interest in joining the association's Early Professional Special Interest Group as they begin their careers.

This educational outreach represents one facet of APTANJ's commitment to supporting the next generation of physical therapy professionals in New Jersey and ensuring the continued advancement of the profession through engagement with new practitioners.

APTANJ President-Elect Owen Legaspi Engages Future Physical Therapy Assistants at Essex County Community College

04.23.25 – On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Dr. Owen Legaspi, PT, DPT, President-Elect of the American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey (APTANJ), recently visited Essex County Community College to deliver an insightful presentation to students in the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. His talk emphasized the significance of professional standards, ethical practice, and the value of active association membership in shaping the future of physical therapy in New Jersey.

Upholding Standards and Ethics in Practice

Dr. Legaspi highlighted the APTA’s Standards of Practice and the Code of Ethics as foundational elements that guide physical therapy professionals. He discussed the importance of adhering to these principles to ensure quality care and maintain trust. Additionally, he addressed the challenges of clinical settings, encouraging students to navigate ethical issues with integrity and professionalism.

Advancing Professional Growth through Membership, Mentoring and Continuing Education

Emphasizing the role of continuing education in professional development, Legaspi introduced students to various APTANJ-sponsored opportunities such as CEU Approved Courses through educational meeting events, online webinars and various association publications.

Legaspi also discussed the benefits of APTANJ membership, including access to legislative advocacy, networking opportunities, and professional development resources thorough hands-on mentorship. He underscored the association's role in representing the interests of physical therapy professionals and influencing policy decisions that impact the field, both on a State and national level. Overall, Dr. Legaspi’s message centered around the community that will support their growth and development through their studies and continue that support and partnership as they embark on their career journey as professionals in the industry.

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, allowing students to engage directly with Dr. Legaspi and gain further insights into the profession's standards and practices. This visit underscored the importance of ethical conduct, continuous learning, and active participation in professional organizations for aspiring physical therapist assistants (PTAs).

APTANJ is deeply committed to fostering strong partnerships with academic institutions across New Jersey to support and engage students on their journey toward becoming physical therapy professionals. By collaborating directly with colleges and universities, APTANJ aims to provide meaningful educational experiences, mentorship opportunities, and access to valuable professional resources that inspire student success and leadership in the field. The association is especially grateful to Dr. Kevin Lawless, PT, DPT, Director of Clinical Education in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Essex County College, for his kind invitation and ongoing collaboration. His dedication to student development and alignment with APTANJ’s mission plays a vital role in shaping a well-prepared, ethically grounded, and professionally active next generation of PTs and PTAs.

The 2025 recipient of the Sheila Nicholson Professional Leadership Sponsorship is APTANJ member, Olivia Visaggio, PT. Olivia is a graduate of Misericordia University in Pennsylvania and currently volunteers as an article reviewer for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy's Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group. She has also spent time volunteering with Hackensack Meridian Health's community health fair, providing education on fall prevention and performing balance screenings.

Olivia is excited for the opportunity to attend this year's APTA House of Delegates to have new experiences and gain an understanding of how different policies shape clinical practice as well as patient care.

APTANJ is committed to developing the next generation of advocates from the Garden State and look forward to Olivia's future contributions to the profession. Congratulations!

The APTA Academy of Leadership and Innovation presented APTANJ member and delegate, Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela, with the R. Charles Harker, Esq. Policy Maker Award at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting in Houston, February 13-15. The award recognizes APTA members whose actions have impacted health policy. Congratulations, Mercedes!

________________________________________________________

Chavva and Lazaro Present Best Clinical Poster

Here are your 2025 nominees for leadership in APTANJ:

Click here to read candidate statements.

Director

• Chase Stopyra PT
• Lauren Sacco PT, DPT
• Kaitlyn Hanelt PT, DPT

 Treasurer

• Pamela Randolph PT, DPT

 Delegate

• Joshua Breighner PT, DPT
• Mercedes Aguirre Valenzuela PT, DPT
• Kaitlyn Hanelt PT, DPT
• Nadine Booysen PT, PhD
• Derek Wagner PT, DPT
• Jennifer Lazaro PT, DPT

A special thanks to our APTANJ Nominating Committee for their hard work and dedication in putting together an impressive slate of candidates.

Online voting will begin in April.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, established nationally in 2022, is a 24/7 crisis support hotline that provides free, confidential assistance for people experiencing mental health or substance use crises. In New Jersey, 988 connects individuals to trained counselors who can offer emotional support, crisis intervention, and referrals to local resources. The state has enhanced its support by expanding crisis response teams, training for first responders, and coordinating with local mental health organizations to ensure swift access to in-person support if needed. New Jersey has promoted the service through public awareness campaigns and partnerships with healthcare providers to increase accessibility and help reduce stigma surrounding mental health support.

For more information visit: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/initiatives/988/              

 

 🌟 Happy Physical Therapy Month! 🌟

APTANJ thanks all of our incredible members and the physical therapy professionals who help New Jerseyans regain their strength, mobility, and confidence every day. Your dedication, expertise, and care make a world of difference in your patients' lives. 💪❤

Thank you for all that you do to help others move forward in New Jersey!

#PTmakesjerseystrong #PhysicalTherapyMonth #ThankYouPT

Here are your 2024 APTANJ Delegates:

• Ben Aguila, PT, DPT (Chief Delegate)
• Nadine Booysen, PhD, MRes, PT
• Josh Breighner, PT, DPT, NCS
• Mercedes Elena Aguirre, PT, DPT
• Jessica C. Dunn, PT, DPT, MS, GCS
• Megan Gardner, PT, MPT, MHA, CLT (APTANJ President)
• Thomas Gardner, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT
• Richard Hubler, PT, DPT
• Francesca “Franki” Kaspar, PT, DPT
• Jennifer Lazaro, PT, DPT, NCS
• Holly Melao, PTA
• Kaitlin Mital, PT, DPT
• Lauren Sacco, PT, DPT, OCS
• Margaret D. Soucek, PT, DPT
  

And, congratulations to Rebecca Horton, PTA, BSPTA on receiving the APTA Outstanding Physical Therapist Assistant Award.

Thank you for your outstanding representation of the physical therapy profession on the national stage!

Click here to view more photos from the 2024 APTA Leadership Congress.

Starting July 1, 2024:

• Horizon is increasing the maximum allowed rate. The new per member, per day maximum will increase by 15%.

• Horizon will also reimburse for initial physical therapy evaluations separately from your maximum allowed amount. This applies to CPT codes 97161, 97162 and 97163.

APTANJ president, Megan Gardner stated, “We are pleased that Horizon has announced this rate increase and thank them for working collaboratively with APTANJ. We look forward to working with them on an ongoing basis.” 

Over the past year, APTANJ has been working and communicating with Horizon to make these updates to the standard contract.

“APTANJ appreciates that Horizon recognizes the importance of physical therapy in New Jersey,” added Gardner.

For full details, visit HorizonBlue.com/OTMAXpolicy. For questions, contact your Horizon Provider Account Specialist.

 

Longtime APTANJ member, Ruth Levy, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024. She was 94.

Ruth had a long, distinguished career in physical therapy, starting during the height of the polio epidemic of the 1950s, working at a children's hospital in New York City. Her distinguished career continued at LaGuardia Hospital in Forest Hills, New York and eventually concluded her full-time career as director of physical therapy at Syosset Community Hospital. Ruth continued her career part-time, well into her 80s, teaching home health aides across the New York City area. 

Read full obituary.

TBD, Secretary

• Ben Aguila
• Richard Hubler
  
• Lauren Sacco

This year, APTANJ is asking all physical therapy professionals (members, nonmembers and their patients) to become involved in protecting the profession by contributing $24 in 2024 to APTANJ’s PT PLAN.

The PT PLAN, APTANJ’s political action committee, plays a significant role in shaping the political healthcare landscape of New Jersey and serves as a conduit for the association to support candidates, causes, and policies that align with our interests.

Our PT PLAN is sustained on contributions from physical therapy professionals and their patients. One of the primary reasons for donating is to advance specific ideals and policies. By supporting the PT PLAN, you are amplifying the voice of PT professionals and influencing policymakers to enact legislative changes that move the profession forward in the Garden State.

What have we accomplished recently with the PT PLAN?

• Prevented an infringement on the PT scope of practice by athletic trainers.
• Enacted legislation to provide more than one method of payment from health insurance carriers.
• Extended pay parity for telehealth services for an additional year.
• Worked toward the payment of service and public awareness on the importance of pelvic floor physical therapy.
• And, we are working towards legislation regarding loan redemption for physical therapists.

Please join our campaign by clicking here and donating $24 in ’24 today!

President:
Owen Legaspi, PT, DPT

Vice President:
Anthony Falco, PT, DPT

Secretary:
OPEN

Chief Delegate:
Tom Gardner, PT, DPT, ATC

Delegate:

Ben Aguila, PT, DPT
Tom Gardner, PT, DPT, ATC
Lauren Sacco, PT, DPT
Richard Hubler, PT, DPT

A special thanks to our APTANJ Nominating Committee, led by Ruth Raroque, PT, DPT, for all of their hard work and dedication in putting together such an impressive list of candidates.

Online voting will begin in April.

Awardees: Franki Kaspar PT, DPT and Jennifer Pasram, SPT

APTANJ is committed to developing the next generation of advocates from the Garden State for the physical therapy profession. We look forward to their future contributions to the profession and their leadership development journey.