Louisiana lawmakers address critical physical therapy workforce shortage during legislative session

In a recent meeting of the Louisiana Legislature's Health and Welfare Committee, discussions highlighted a critical shortage of physical therapists in the state, raising concerns about the availability of care for residents. The meeting, held on April 16, 2025, included testimony from various stakeholders, including Dr. Christina Fauci from the Louisiana Physical Therapy Association, who underscored the urgent need for workforce support in the field.

Dr. Fauci noted that many facilities, including Opelousas General Hospital, have struggled to fill open positions for over two years. This shortage is not isolated; representatives from other regions, such as Bossier City, echoed similar challenges in recruiting physical therapists and assistants. The demand for physical therapy services remains high, yet the workforce is unable to meet this need, particularly in rural areas where access to care is already limited.

The committee members expressed their support for addressing this workforce crisis, with Representative Cruz emphasizing the importance of the bill aimed at improving the situation. The meeting featured numerous supporters from various organizations, including the American Physical Therapy Association and the Louisiana Hospital Association, who were present but did not speak.

As the committee moves forward, the executive director of the physical therapy board is expected to provide further data on the workforce situation, which could inform future legislative actions. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need to bolster the healthcare workforce in Louisiana, particularly in underserved areas, to ensure that residents have access to necessary medical services. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively these challenges can be addressed.