On July 11, 2025, I stepped into a new chapter of my professional journey as the newly appointed Liaison from the Maryland Board of Physical Therapy Examiners to APTA Maryland. It was an honor when APTA Maryland’s Executive Director Lauri Jacobson invited me to meet and connect with the APTA Maryland Board of Directors.

During the meeting, I had the privilege of sharing exciting news—the appointments of two new members to the Maryland Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, Laurie Engelhardt and Cara Felter.

The Board warmly welcomed this announcement, recalling their past connections with both individuals and expressing enthusiasm about the Board’s growth. This expansion, guided by the recently amended statute §13-202 (effective July 1, 2025), increases the Board to nine members, adding another PTA seat and strengthening representation for our profession.

We also spoke about issues shaping the future of physical therapy in Maryland. I encouraged the APTA Maryland’s Board of Directors to participate in upcoming open session meetings, including the July 15 discussion on new dry needling regulations (COMAR 10.38.12). Our conversations ranged from fair copay legislation planned for 2026, to changes in Maryland’s Total Cost of Care (All-Payor System), to hospital reimbursement policies. We explored challenges with Medicaid credentialing and compliance, and considered creative ways to advocate more effectively—such as inviting legislators to clinics and building partnerships with other healthcare professionals.

One theme that stood out was collaboration. We talked about strengthening PT/PTA educational programs and working together to ensure our future workforce is supported, prepared, and empowered to serve.

Later, I had the opportunity to review APTA Maryland’s Delegation Impact Report, led by Chief Delegate Mike Ukoha. This report highlighted key initiatives for 2024–2026, including assessing workforce needs, addressing environmental health risks, and developing clinical guidelines for patients with sensory disabilities. It was inspiring to see how forward-looking and innovative our delegation has been in tackling the profession’s most pressing issues.

Looking back on this experience, I feel proud to serve as a bridge between the Maryland Board of Physical Therapy Examiners and APTA Maryland. The conversations were not just about policy—they were about vision, advocacy, and community.

This journey reminds me that the strength of our profession lies in our ability to come together, listen, and act with purpose. I look forward to continuing this work and helping to shape a future where physical therapy remains accessible, collaborative, and impactful for all Marylanders.