APTA's #ChoosePT opioid awareness campaign once again has been recognized—this time by the Kentucky House of Representatives, which issued a statement honoring APTA and its Kentucky Chapter for providing "an important opportunity" for public education on the "tremendous benefits of physical therapy."
The commendation, issued on July 11, describes the #ChoosePT campaign as a "vital initiative" that is helping the public see the dangers of opioid use and understand that pain can be managed safely through physical therapy.
Given that Kentucky “has suffered greatly from the effects of opioid addiction among its citizens, the #ChoosePT initiative sponsored by APTA and with the full support of the Kentucky Physical Therapy Association … is recognized as an important opportunity for citizens … to educate themselves on the tremendous benefits of physical therapy as a tool for pain management and to opt for a much safer alternative to prescription opioids," the document states.
The House citation was made about 5 weeks after a similar recognition was issued by the Kentucky Senate. The House version was sponsored by Rep Daniel Elliott.
In addition to state kudos, the #ChoosePT campaign also has received national attention this year, with the American Society of Association Executives honoring the entire campaign through a "Power of A" award for excellence in public awareness initiatives, and singling out the campaign's public service announcement video for a Gold Circle award as best association video of the year.