Dear Colleagues and Friends:
Because of anti-competitive actions taken by the American Physical Therapy Association, NATA has filed a civil lawsuit against APTA in Dallas, Texas. The suit cites antitrust laws and other violations. A copy of the lawsuit is posted here.
It is NATA's responsibility to stand up for its members and to protect their rights. In my view, NATA has no choice but to take this step to protect its members' right to compete in the marketplace. NATA tried to work through these issues with the APTA, but we regret to say the APTA response to our concerns was thoroughly unsatisfactory and dismissive of the issues NATA raised.
This letter is illustrative of APTA's efforts to restrict our members' access to education consistent with their competencies and scope of practice.
These actions by APTA are an attempt to prevent certified athletic trainers from competing with physical therapists and performing manual therapy services. Two dual credentialed presenters withdrew from the workshop faculty after receiving the letter. This occurrence is one of many that ultimately led to NATA's legal action against APTA.
Only after a great deal of study and careful consideration did NATA decide to bring legal action. First, on Dec. 21, 2007, I sent the APTA a detailed letter outlining NATA's positions and areas of serious concern.
Our hope was the APTA would address the issues raised and we could avoid litigation. Unfortunately the APTA's response letter, received Jan. 25, 2008, did not adequately address these concerns, so NATA had no choice but to pursue legal action.
NATA has indicated its willingness to meet with APTA in the future to discuss resolution of these issues.
We must stand up and defend our right to practice. We have never attempted to restrict the practice of other professions. We believe others should not try to restrict ours. As athletic trainers, we expect to practice in settings and situations consistent with our training, education and licenses.
Certified athletic trainers work under the supervision of physicians.
If a physician believes an athletic trainer is the best choice to care for a patient, the athletic trainer should be allowed to do so.
A special word for our dual credentialed friends: I realize this suit may place you in an awkward position. The dispute between NATA and the APTA is fueled by the longtime anti-competitive tactics of APTA leadership and staff. Typically, the conflict does not exist between practitioners and colleagues in everyday work settings because each knows and values what the other brings to the table. Be proud of both your credentials; I acknowledge and honor them as do the rest of your fellow athletic trainers.
And finally, I will keep you informed of significant developments as they occur and we can make them public.
Watch your monthly NATA News and e-Blast Newsletter for updates.
If NATA staff can assist you with issues related to this action, please contact the Fair Practice Hotline at 800.879.6282 or
info@nata.org and put "Fair Practice" in the subject line.
Sincerely,
Chuck Kimmel, ATC
President
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