APTANJ President's Message - Megan Gardner

I would like to start my first Presidential address by thanking the individuals who have finished their terms on the Council of Directors for their years of service: Brian Mason, Brian Mullins, Maria Aguila, and Marc Rubenstein. They have dedicated their time and energy and were committed to making an impact on our Chapter and our profession in the state during a global pandemic. Our executive staff also require a shout out, as they have worked tirelessly to help keep our Chapter running – moving to Trenton, logistics, supporting us professionally and with constant information during the pandemic, and supporting the physical therapy profession in the state – both members and non-members.

2021 is a momentous year for physical therapists in NJ; it is our Association’s 100th anniversary as well as our Chapter’s 70th anniversary. This shows our staying power, how important we are to our communities, that we are continuing to grow with our populations. We’ve been through a lot in the last 100 years, in the last year especially with COVID-19. But we still have opportunities that we are positioned well to continue to capitalize on.

With all this in mind, I genuinely believe physical therapists in NJ are ready to lead the rehab space, especially with COVID-19 recovery; we are uniquely positioned with our education, background, and resources to work with the specific cardiovascular, neuromuscular, integumentary, and musculoskeletal issues associated with these populations. Our Pediatric SIG worked with the NJ Department of Education to provide guidelines for how telehealth/telepractice can be effectively utilized for students. We are an approved part of the vaccine process. We are looking to broaden our reach with community partnerships and ensure that we are serving our communities. And we are asked to give timely, professional feedback on legislation as it is brought into the Assembly and Senate.

Much of this is possible because of the time and energy that has been spent on creating relationships and credibility at the State level in Trenton. We need our therapists – members and non-members – to support the practice of physical therapy in the state and contribute to the PT-PLAN. This is how we advocate for ourselves at the state level and ensure legislative and statewide advancement (i.e. Practice Act, the Telehealth Bill, our presence in the Opioid Bill, our recognition as an essential healthcare provider, etc.) and continue with progress made with our Dry Needling Bill and other legislation. Lobbying and meeting with legislators, building relationships, and ensuring that PT’s have a strong and professional presence in Trenton is how we continue to lead rehab. We need your support of the PT-PLAN to keep our profession strong.

In closing, thank you – the member – for entrusting me to lead the APTANJ and keep our profession strong in NJ.

Megan Gardner, PT, MPT, MPH