Intro to PT: Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics established by APTA

6 ethical principles

Autonomy, Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Justice, Veracity, Fidelity

Purpose of code of ethics

Set out consistent rules for ethical decision making and behavior in physical therapy field

9 ethical commitments

Respect, Integrity, Accountability, Maintaining Professional Relationships, Compassion and Trust, Responsible Business and Organizational Practices, Direction and Supervision, Professional Expertise, Societal Responsibility

Difference between core values and code of ethics

Core values is the professional behavior framework, code of ethics is the ethical behavior framework

When was code of ethics established

Jan 1, 2026

What changed with the “new” code of ethics

There is no longer a separate one for PT and PTA

Autonomy

Ethical principle. Respect patient decisions about their life, body, and care

Beneficence

Ethical principle. Act in best interest of patients and society

Nonmaleficence

Do no harm

Justice

Ethical principle. Make decisions that are the most equitable (fair and reasonable)

Veracity

Ethical principle. Be honest and truthful in decisions

Fidelity

Ethical principle. Treat all people fairly

Respect

Ethical commitment. Respect rights of all

Integrity

Ethical commitment. Aim to fulfill all legal and ethical obligations

Where do ethical commitments come from

They build off of the ethical principles

Accountability

Ethical commitment. Take responsibility for actions, ensuring that they are all within your scope

Maintaining professional relationships

Ethical commitment. Respect boundaries of professional relationships

Compassion and trust

Ethical commitment. Be empathetic

Responsible business and organizational practices

Ethical commitment. Promote accountable and truthful business practices

Direction and supervision

Ethical commitment. Provide appropriate and timely direction to those you supervise

Professional expertise

Ethical commitment. Strive to expand competency

Societal responsibility

Ethical commitment. Participate in efforts to meet the health needs of society