how long are observational hours valid???

[KG_DPT]

I was reading through a thread from 2011-12 where someone in the military was asking this same thing but I didn't get a definite answer. Does anyone know if PT hours expire or become invalid after a certain period of time? I really hope I can add the ones I did before to future hours!

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[ptlover]

I had some this past application cycle from 2011 if that helps

 

[southernswimmer]

My earliest ones from this past cycle were from 2012. I can't imagine that observation hours would expire. Even experiences you had, say, 5 years ago would still be pertinent to your decision to pursue physical therapy. That being said, you can always ask your schools if you're worried your hours are too "old."

 

[KG_DPT]

Cool. Thanks for the responses.

 

[starrsgirl]

I agree 5 years seems reasonable as that should capture all undergrad experience or any post bac programs. I personally wouldn't go further than that but I suppose you could call a school if you needs a definite answer.

 

[Watson27]

The biggest pain with reporting older hours would be tracking down the PT and making sure they will verify your hours. As long as you have been in contact or they remember you, it shouldn't be a problem.