Clinical settings influence many aspects of patient and client care documentation. Depending on the setting there may be additional regulations by payer, state, local facility, or accrediting organizations.

In addition, various clinical settings have different norms, processes, and influences that often are outside the control of the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. For example, in an inpatient acute care setting, patients often are discharged without the knowledge of the treating PT or PTA.

(Note: This article is current as of January 2018. Laws and regulations impacting specific settings are subject to change.)