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The scope of practice for physical therapists is dynamic, evolving with evidence, education, and societal needs.
The scope of practice for physical therapists has three components: professional, jurisdictional, and personal.
The professional scope of practice is grounded in the profession’s unique body of knowledge, supported by educational preparation, based on a body of evidence, and linked to existing or emerging practice frameworks.
The jurisdictional (i.e., legal) scope of practice is established by a state's practice act governing the specific physical therapist’s license, and the rules adopted pursuant to that act. The Model Practice Act for Physical Therapy (MPA) is the preeminent standard and most effective tool at the state level for revising and modernizing physical therapy practice acts via legislation.
Personal scope of practice consists of activities for which an individual physical therapist is educated and trained and their competence to perform.
Recommended Content
Feb 9, 2023 / Website
The Guide is the description of physical therapist practice for use by PT and PTA educators, students, and clinicians.
Sep 13, 2017 / Policies & Bylaws
House position: An individual physical therapist’s scope of practice is influenced by professional, jurisdictional, and personal scopes of practice.
Additional Scope of Practice Content
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Apr 12, 2023 / News
The physical therapy profession has evolved, and so has its foundational resource.
Mar 20, 2023 / Article
Discussion about women; women empowerment, mentoring, networking, and APTA's awesome profession, founded by women!
Mar 10, 2023 / Article
Consider how to leverage specialized knowledge and skills to propel the evolution of physical therapy practice toward greater precision.
Mar 1, 2023 / Roundup
It's looking like a busy year for state legislatures, with the potential for some good news for the profession. Now's your chance to help.
Aug 15, 2022 / Article
Discover the fundamental role of exercise in modern physical therapy practice.
Aug 14, 2022 / Article
Watch the 2022 annual address on the importance of foresight in the physical therapy profession.
Sep 23, 2021 / Article
We explore the importance of fostering an innovative culture within physical therapy and its significant impact on patient care.
Sep 17, 2021 / Article
The 2021 annual address discusses the transformation of the APTA House of Delegates for the years to come by fostering the power of the APTA community.