This past spring, Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students and faculty traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)’s annual Day on the Hill—an initiative dedicated to amplifying the voice of physical therapy professionals in legislative discussions.
During their visit, participants engaged directly with congressional representatives, advocating for policies that enhance patient access to physical therapy and emphasizing its critical role in healthcare. Additionally, Duke DPT students and faculty visited the APTA headquarters in Alexandria, where they connected with staff committed to fostering professional development and lifelong learning within the field.
"Duke DPT’s involvement underscores the importance of advocacy in shaping the future of physical therapy. Their presence at Day on the Hill is a powerful reminder that legislative change occurs when professionals and students actively participate in policy discussions,” shared Dr. Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD.
Duke DPT continues to inspire future healthcare leaders by demonstrating the impact of advocacy in creating a stronger, more accessible healthcare system.
Second row: Mackenzie Whittaker, Aaron Aronesty, Emma Kurtz, Autumn Kidd, Holly Brown, Kellan Hartley.
Third row: John Wellers and Max Fransisco and Corey Simon
Fourth Row: Halle Anderson, Teoma LaShawn, Said Mendez, and Kyle Covington
