Institute:Office of National Coordinator (ONC) Workforce Training Curriculum
Component:The Culture of Health Care
Unit:Health Professionals The People in Health Care
Lecture:Physician assistants, Pharmacists, Therapists, Technicians, Paramedics, Dental Professionals, Mental Health Professionals, Care Coordinators
Non-clinical IT/Informatics Roles for Clinicians
Effects of Changing Care Models on Clinicians
Slide content:Physical Therapy Physical therapy aide On-the-job training Not licensed Physical therapy assistant Associates degree Licensure varies by state Physical therapist Masters or doctoral degree Licensure National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) Other exams or requirements 11
Slide notes:Physical therapy exemplifies the pattern often seen in the health professions of a variety of level of practitioners. Typically, as the amount and degree of training increases, so does level of responsibility. Physical therapy aides are usually trained by the institution and function in a support and administrative role. They are not licensed and do not participate in any clinical care. A physical therapy assistant usually obtains an associates degree and assists a physical therapist, which includes assessment and therapy. Most states require either licensure or registration, but the only consistent requirement is graduation from an accredited program. Some states have their own exam or require the physical therapy assistant version of the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Physical therapists may have a masters or doctoral degree. All states require licensure and the Physical Therapist version of the National Physical Therapy Exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Some states have additional exams or other requirements. Physical therapists direct and provide care for patients with physical limitations caused by injuries or diseases with the aim to improve mobility and function and to relieve pain. 11