In another recognition of its leadership in promoting a healthy society, APTA has been named to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Total Worker Health affiliate program, a network of organizations that advance worker safety, health, and well-being.
Sponsored by CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Total Worker Health affiliate program focuses on expanding understanding of the importance of worker health and increasing collaboration to make the case to employers, providers, and the public. As an official program affiliate, APTA joins organizations such as the American College of Preventive Medicine, NASA, and the National Institutes of Health, as well as multiple colleges and universities across the country. The news comes on the heels of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' recognition of APTA as a "champion" in prevention and wellness.
In addition to outreach efforts, participation as a Total Worker Health affiliate includes a commitment to supporting research efforts, developing interventions, and collaborating with NIOSH and other affiliates on seminars, meetings, trainings, and educational events.
The association's new status is consistent with its long-running efforts to promote a healthy workforce and advocate for direct-to-employer physical therapist services. APTA's emphasis on employer services has been underscored by two major educational offerings from its components: an Occupational Health Practitioner Certificate of Achievement program, sponsored by the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, and a direct-to-employer services designation program offered by APTA Private Practice.
"APTA recognizes that our commitment to improving the health of society means taking physical therapy beyond traditional models of care and leveraging our unique skills to promote prevention and wellness," said APTA CEO Justin Moore, PT, DPT, in an APTA news release. "Being named a Total Worker Health affiliate is not just an acknowledgement of our dedication but also an opportunity to work with a wide range of organizations toward shared goals in this important area of health care."