APTA Orthopedics Podcasts - Previously Ortho Static

APTA Orthopedics Podcasts - Previously Ortho Static


PTs as First-Contact Providers? The Data Is In — Less Imaging, Fewer Meds, Better Outcomes!

August 13, 2025

Join us for an eye-opening Imaging SIG webinar with Drs. Dallas Ehrmantraut and Bremen Abuhl, University of Jamestown faculty and driving forces behind North Dakota’s recent victory for full MSK imaging referral privileges.


Fresh from their Editor’s Choice publication in Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal, these researchers share a landmark meta-analysis showing physical therapists as first-contact providers achieve less imaging, fewer medications, and same or better outcomes compared to other providers.


Read Now: https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/105/8/pzaf080/8161542


We’ll dive into what the data means for the profession, how it strengthens the case for PTs in primary care, and what’s next for advancing scope and autonomy across the country.


Bring your questions, your perspectives, and your curiosity — this is a conversation that could shape the future of physical therapy.


Join the Imaging SIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/imaging


Target Audience:

physical therapists, PTAs, orthopedic PTs, sports PTs, primary care PTs, outpatient PTs, imaging specialists, rehab clinicians, DPT students, academic faculty, policy advocates