One way students of the MPT program at Ohio State receive service learning is by participating in the Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA) and upholding the organization's misson of advocacy for the physical therapy profession. Through OPTA service learning, students learn the importance of protecting patients' rights to access physical therapy services through the political process. Direct access to physical therapy services is an important benefit for patients and clients and for the continuing development of the physical therapy profession. Ohio State PT Students also assist the OPTA staff in preparing for the Buckeye PAC Silent Auction, organizing materials and registration for the OPTA conferences, and helping with social events for Ohio members of the legislature. | | 
OSU students Bettina Schroeder, Erica Groeber, Amy Winner, and Stephanie Berger participate with other Ohio physical therapists (and OSU alumni) at the 2003 APTA March on Washington for Medicare Direct Access to physical therapy services. |
