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APTA is the definitive source for standards of ethics and professionalism in the physical therapy profession.

The standards for ethics and professionalism in physical therapy are established by the following APTA policies:

If you believe that a PT or PTA member of APTA has violated the association's ethical standards, you may file a complaint to APTA's Ethics and Judicial Committee.


Recommended Content

Recommended Reading for Understanding Ethics in the Profession

Feb 16, 2023 / Article

Tools To Advance Your Professionalism

Sep 1, 2019 / Open Access

Ethical Decision-Making in Physical Therapist Practice

Jan 1, 2022 / Article

Preventing Fraud, Abuse, and Waste: A Primer for Physical Therapists

Sep 1, 2017 / Resource

Legal Topics of Interest

Aug 1, 2019 / Article


Additional Ethics and Professionalism Content

Seminal APTA Guide to PT Practice Gets an Update

Apr 12, 2023 / News

The physical therapy profession has evolved, and so has its foundational resource.

When Professional and Personal Life Intersect

May 1, 2022 / Column

On occasion, the lines blur and we may step outside of our professional scope with potential consequences.

Professional Decision Making on the Line

Feb 1, 2022 / Column

Every practice setting has its challenges and special circumstances, but they all share professional expectations and responsibilities.

You Can't Be in Two Places at Once

Nov 1, 2021 / Column

We all try to balance our work and personal lives, but some situations can create ethical risk factors that might result in poor decisions.

Core Values for the Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant

Sep 21, 2021 / Policies & Bylaws

House position: Outlines how the core values guide the behavior of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to provide the highest quality of physical therapy services.

Who Is the Judge?

Aug 1, 2021 / Column

The transition from hospital to school-based setting brings up questions of authority.

Unwelcome Notice

May 1, 2021 / Column

When conversation causes discomfort in the workplace.

Informed Consent: What PTs Need To Know

Apr 1, 2021 / Column

Understand your legal obligations to your patients.

Costly Comity

Feb 1, 2021 / Column

Sometimes you have to make waves.

A Costly Loan

Dec 1, 2020 / Column

Unilateral action, a dual relationship, and unintended consequences.