On January 21, a group of second-year students from Pacific Northwest University’s School of Physical Therapy (SOPT) traveled to Olympia, Washington, to participate in the annual American Physical Therapy Association of Washington (APTWA) Legislative Impact Day, joining physical therapy students and professionals from across the state to advocate for the advancement of their profession.
During the event, PNWU SOPT students met directly with lawmakers from both the Washington State Senate and House of Representatives to encourage support for legislation that would allow physical therapists to serve as attending providers for workers’ compensation claims. This policy change—which is strongly supported by the APTWA—would reduce barriers to care and improve patient access to timely, effective musculoskeletal treatment. A second bill, also discussed during the meetings, is supported by health care providers across Washington and would allow individual practitioners—not just physical therapists—to negotiate directly with insurance companies regarding reimbursement.
Dr. Brad Callan, Assistant Professor in the School of Physical Therapy and an APTA Washington Delegate, played a pivotal role in organizing the student experience. His leadership helped ensure robust participation from PNWU, ultimately resulting in the largest representation of PT students from any institution in the state.
“Our students showed tremendous professionalism and passion,” said Dr. Rachael Arabian, Assistant Professor in the School of Physical Therapy, who joined the delegation in Olympia.
“Interacting directly with legislators gives them a deeper understanding of how policy shapes patient care, and it empowers them to become active advocates for their profession.”
Among the many meaningful conversations held throughout the day, students met with Representatives Gloria Mendoza and Deb Manjarrez to discuss how expanding PT autonomy in workers’ compensation cases could improve outcomes for Washington’s workforce.
For PNWU SOPT students, APTA Legislative Impact Day offered not only the chance to influence statewide health policy, but also an opportunity to strengthen their professional identity and speak up on behalf of the patients they will one day serve.
“Participating in Legislative Impact Day was incredibly empowering,” said Cytlalli Espino, SOPT Class of 2027.
“Speaking directly with legislators helped me realize how much our voices matter in shaping the future of patient care. It reminded me that advocacy isn’t something that happens later in our careers—we can make a difference even as students.”
To learn more about APTA Legislative Impact Day and the legislative priorities discussed, visit aptawa.org.