"Where do we go from here?"
The staff and volunteers who represent ASHT at conferences are often approached by students and new therapists asking, “What do I need to do to become a hand therapist?,” “Where can I learn more about hand therapy?” and “How do I get my foot in the door?” For students and younger therapists, the career pathway to becoming a hand therapist is not always clear or easy. Academic programs vary in their content addressing upper extremity dysfunction and internships providing clinical experience in hand therapy are limited. As we know, our profession is highly specialized; therefore, to gain the knowledge and skills required for success requires not only self-motivation but also planning and support.
As this identified need has been brought to the attention of the ASHT board, the Board Members-at-Large along with staff at headquarters have started a student and new therapist initiative. This initiative is aimed at providing information and support to students and new therapists who are interested in becoming hand therapists and ASHT members. Currently, we have developed a handout for students that addresses the frequently asked questions regarding a career pathway in hand therapy. We are pleased to announce a new discounted introductory rate ($30) for new student members. (Dues will increase to $60 the following year.) We are also collaborating with the Education Division to develop educational programming to support hand therapists of the future. Finally,we are looking for volunteers who would be willing to assist with the development of resources and continuing education programs to support our future community of hand therapy professionals.
As we reflect on the previous growth and successes of our profession, we must also look for opportunities and ideas to enhance the future growth and success of ASHT. Through the provision of support and education to students and new therapists, the hand therapy profession and ASHT will continue to be a strong, widely recognized community of practitioners for generations to come.