The program begins in the fall of 2005, the freshman
class that entered in 2004 has been given the option of moving to
this program.
The following Vision Statement was promulgated by the American
Physical Therapy Association (APTA) in June 2000:APTA Vision Sentence
and Vision Statement for Physical Therapy 2020 (HOD 06-00-24-35)
Vision Sentence
By 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists
who are doctors of physical
therapy, recognized by consumers and other health care professionals
as practitioners of choice to whom consumers have direct access
for the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments,
functional limitations, and disabilities related to movement, function,
and health.
Vision Statement
Physical therapy, by 2020, will be provided by physical therapists
who are doctors of physical
therapy and who may be board-certified specialists. Consumers will
have direct access to
physical therapists in all environments for patient/client management,
prevention, and wellness
services. Physical therapists will be practitioners of choice in
clients’ health networks and will
hold all privileges of autonomous practice. Physical therapist assistants
who are educated and
licensed to provide physical therapist-directed and -supervised
components of interventions may assist physical therapists. Guided
by integrity, lifelong learning, and a commitment to comprehensive
and accessible health programs for all people, physical therapists
and physical therapist assistants will render evidence-based service
throughout the continuum of care and improve quality of life for
society. They will provide culturally sensitive care distinguished
by trust, respect, and an appreciation for individual differences.
While fully availing themselves of new technologies, as well as
basic and clinical research, physical therapists will continue to
provide direct care. They will maintain active responsibility for
the growth of the physical therapy profession and the health of
the people it serves.
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