American Physical Therapy Association Adds Pediatric And Geriatric Physical Therapy To Physical Therapist Assistant Recognition Program

Main Category: Rehabilitation / Physical Therapy
Article Date: 25 Jan 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has added two new categories of proficiency-Geriatric and Pediatric Physical Therapy-to its Recognition of Advanced Proficiency for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program.

We are proud to honor those physical therapist assistants who have achieved advanced proficiency through education, experience, and leadership," said APTA President R. Scott Ward, PT, PhD. "Physical therapist assistants are an integral part of the physical therapist and physical therapist assistant team. We are extremely pleased to now be honoring the accomplishments of PTAs who have advanced their knowledge and skills in geriatric and pediatric physical therapy.

The Advanced Proficiency for the Physical Therapist Assistant program was begun in July, 2004. The program currently honors PTAs who have obtained the required experience and advanced education in the areas of Cardiopulmonary, Geriatric, Integumentary, Musculoskeletal, and Neuromuscular, Pediatric physical therapy while also demonstrating leadership abilities through contributions to their communities and the profession.

For more information on the Recognition of Advanced Proficiency for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program or to obtain an application, please visit http://www.apta.org. Applications should be submitted to PTARecongition@apta.org. Application due dates have changed to April 1 and October 1.

Physical therapists are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility -- without expensive surgery or the side effects of medications. Physical therapist assistants provide selected physical therapy interventions under the supervision of and as directed by the physical therapist. APTA represents more than 70,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical therapy nationwide. Its purpose is to improve the health and quality of life of individuals through the advancement of physical therapist practice. Learn more about conditions physical therapists and physical therapist assistants can treat at http://www.apta.org/consumer, and find a physical therapist in your area at http://www.findapt.us.

American Physical Therapy Association

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