One thing that distinguishes physical therapy among the health care professions is the amount of time physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) spend with patients and families relative to the time spent by other practitioners—and the closer interpersonal bonds that may result from that. But dual relationships, in which the PT or PTA is both the provider and a supporter or friend of the patient and his or her family members, present potential hazards that can adversely influence decision-making. Consider the following scenario.

Bordering on Uncertainty

Kathy is a PT who owns a private practice in a rural county that's located about a half-hour's drive from a small city. Lincoln High, the county's lone high school, is a primary focus of community life. Shops, grocery stores, and service stations throughout the county are dotted with posters supporting Lincoln Lions sports teams. Fundraisers for the high school's academic and sports needs always are well-supported.