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Applying the Code of Ethics: Real-World Scenarios

Practical examples of how the Code of Ethics for the Physical Therapy Profession offers clear guidance for PTs and PTAs.

Article
Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Author: By Stephen Carp, PT, MSPT, PhD; Aliya Chaudry, PT, DPT, MBA, JD; and Rebecca Edgeworth Ditwiler, PT, DPT, PhD
A PT and her laptop with a patient

Here are a few illustrative scenarios that depict how PTs and PTAs might apply the unified Code of Ethics. Though these are hypothetical illustrations, they are grounded in common practice dilemmas.

These scenarios show how the provisions of the new unified Code of Ethics serve as actionable guardrails in day-to-day practice, offering clarity in uncertain situations. To read more about the combined code of ethics, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2026, check out A New Code of Ethics: A Milestone for the Physical Therapy Profession.

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Resource Details

Date: February 1, 2026
Contact:  aptamag@apta.org
Content Type:  Article

Topics

Ethics and Professionalism

Author(s)

By Stephen Carp, PT, MSPT, PhD; Aliya Chaudry, PT, DPT, MBA, JD; and Rebecca Edgeworth Ditwiler, PT, DPT, PhD

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