History and Scope of Physical Therapy - Vocabulary Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the history, licensure, practice settings, and professional structure of physical therapy.

Physical therapy aide

A support role within the PT team; assists therapists with tasks and activities but is not an independent entry-level credential.

Reconstruction aid

The early title used for physical therapy practitioners during the profession’s development.

American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association

The first professional organization for physical therapy; later evolved into APTA.

APTA

American Physical Therapy Association, the current national professional organization for physical therapists.

Licensure

State-by-state authorization to practice physical therapy; requirements vary by state and country.

Scope of practice

The range of procedures and activities a PT is allowed to perform by law; not an entry-level skill.

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The entry-level professional degree for physical therapists, reflecting the profession’s shift to doctoral-level training.

NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)

National licensure examination used to obtain a PT license in many states.

Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT)

Organization that coordinates licensure processes and references the NPTE for licensing across states.

Compact licensure

A multi-state license model allowing practice in other member states without obtaining a new license.

Reciprocity

License recognition by another state based on prior licensure and meeting its requirements.

Direct access

Policy allowing patients to see a physical therapist without a physician referral; vary by state requirements.

Interdisciplinary

Collaboration across different healthcare disciplines (e.g., PT with physicians, nurses, etc.).

Intradisciplinary

Collaboration within the same profession (e.g., PTs with PTAs).

Value-based care

A reimbursement model prioritizing patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness over volume of services.

Practice act

Laws defining who may practice, what constitutes PT, and how titles may be used.

APTA Academies

The specialty groups within APTA (formerly sections); about 18 academies focusing on areas like geriatrics, pediatric, orthopedics, etc.

ABPTS board certification

American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties certification earned for advanced practice in a chosen specialty.

Common PT practice settings

Settings include hospital/acute care, inpatient/outpatient rehab, skilled nursing facilities, home health, and telehealth.

Movement expert

A description of physical therapists as specialists in movement and functional outcomes.

Polio era and WWI

Historical factors (polio epidemic and WWI) that spurred rehabilitation and the development of physical therapy.