Ron, I'm not sure what you mean by "I think the key word for limiting PT's practice is in 'function' as it relates to self-care, mobility, etc."
The model PT practice act includes the phrase "functional training in self care and in home, community or work reintegration." AOTA and state OT associations have pursued amendment language that states "functional training related to physical movement and mobility in self-care and in home, community or work integration or reintegration." The purpose of the amendment language is clarify the context of interventions by physical therapists. Re: "All function involves movement and most involves mobility." OK, but performing ADLs is not just about the ability to move body parts. OT interventions are complex and consider many factors. From AOTA's Scope of Practice document: "Evaluation of factors affecting activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), education, work, play, leisure, and social participation, including 1. Client factors, including body functions (e.g., neuromuscular, sensory, visual, perceptual, cognitive) and body structures (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive, integumentary, genitourinary systems). 2. Habits, routines, roles, and behavior patterns. 3. Cultural, physical, environmental, social, and spiritual contexts and activity demands that affect performance. 4. Performance skills, including motor, process, and communication/interaction skills." Chuck -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ron Carson Sent: Monday, March 05, 2007 4:27 PM To: Chuck Willmarth Subject: Re: [OTlist] PT's and Functional Trainig Hello Chuck: The whole concept of "functional training" is very etheral. I see the word function in everything from orthopedic surgeons all the way to recreational therapists. What I'm trying to say is that limiting physical therapist to functional training as it relates to movement and mobility is really no limit at all. With a few notable exceptions, all function involves movement and most involves mobility. While applauding AOTA's efforts, I just don't see how the modified language is going to prevent encroachment. I think the key word for limiting PT's practice is in "function" as it relates to self-care, mobility, etc. Ron -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected] ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
