Principles Of Physical Therapy

Physical therapists play a huge role in helping injured people regain mobility and return to normal. They help clients perform activities, exercises, and other movements to help their injury heal.

However, physical therapists have to do things in an ethical manner. They often have to touch and massage patients, so they need to be wary of how they go about their activities.

Physical therapists have to abide by a code of ethics. While this code is not exhaustive, it does include a special obligation of physical therapists to educate and enable those with activity limitations, restrictions, and disabilities so that they can achieve greater independence and increased quality of life.

Physical therapists must abide by eight key principles, which are outlined below.

Physical Therapists Must Respect the Rights of All Individuals

Physical therapists cannot discriminate. They must be respectful toward everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

Physical Therapists Must Be Trustworthy and Compassionate Regarding Patient Needs

Physical therapists must act in the best interests of patients at all times. They must provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care. Health information must be kept confidential.

Physical Therapists Will Be Held Accountable for Professional Judgments

Physical therapists are to make independent and objective professional judgment within their level of expertise. They should have the patient’s best interests in mind.

Physical Therapists Are to Demonstrate Integrity in Their Relationships

This means providing truthful and accurate information and not exploiting anyone. They must report any abuse or illegal acts and refrain from engaging in sexual relationships with patients.

Physical Therapists Are to Fulfill Legal and Professional Obligations

Physical therapists must comply with applicable laws. They must supervise assistants and abide by accepted standards for research participants. If care must be terminated, alternatives must be provided.

Physical Therapists Are to Continue With Professional Development

Physical therapists are to achieve and maintain professional competence. They should enhance their expertise by acquiring knowledge and skills through continuing education.

Physical Therapists Are to Promote Business Practices That Benefit Patients And Society

Integrity and accountability are key. Physical therapists shall seek reasonable remuneration for their services and ensure professional obligations to patients and clients are met. They should  avoid conflicts of interest.

Physical Therapists Should Meet The Health Needs of All People

Physical therapists should increase access to health care and provide pro bono physical therapist services as needed.

Keep Your License With Help From a Tampa Physical Therapist License Lawyer 

Physical therapists need to follow a strict code of ethics. Otherwise, they can face license loss, fines, and other punishment.

However, the code of ethics does not cover every situation. If you find yourself dealing with a licensing issue, see how a Tampa physical therapist license lawyer from The Law Offices of David P. Rankin, P.A. can help. Fill out the online form or call (813) 968-6633 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

apta.org/siteassets/pdfs/policies/codeofethicshods06-20-28-25.pdf