The Physical Therapist

Physical therapists who are members of the American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey pledge to comply with the APTA's code of Ethics and Guide for Professional Conduct. APTA members maintain and promote high standards in the provision of physical therapy services.

LICENSURE - Physical therapists are professional health care providers who are licensed by the state in which they practice. Consumers can confirm a license through the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

EDUCATION - Physical therapists are graduates of professional programs in physical therapy in colleges and universities throughout the country that are accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association's Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

SPECIALIZATION - Many physical therapists specialize in treating specific areas of the body such as the back, neck, knee, hand or shoulder, or they may concentrate their practice on pre- and post-natal care, sports injuries, stroke rehabilitation, or one of many other areas of physical therapy. Physical therapists may also be certified by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in 7 specialty areas of physical therapy: orthopedics, sports, geriatrics, pediatrics, cardiopulmonary, neurology and clinical electrophysiology. Other practice-related certifications include, but are not limited to, Aquatic Instructor, Childbirth Education, Ergonomics and Work Hardening, Feldenkrais, Hand Therapy, Maitland, McKenzie, Myofacial Release, NDT, Orofacial Pain/TMJ, Pain Management, Rolf Method of Structural Integration, and Trager.

FACILITIES - Physical therapists practice in hospitals, independent offices and clinics, private homes, public schools, rehabilitation centers, work site clinics and other settings.

FREEDOM OF CHOICE - As of 2/13/03 consumers in New Jersey have direct access to physical therapist services, unless an automobile accident is involved or a referral is required for 3rd party reimbursement. Although a healthcare practitioner may refer you for physical therapy at a facility in which they have a financial interest, you are entitled to seek treatment from the physical therapist of your choice.

INSURANCE - Most insurance policies cover physical therapy services when provided by a physical therapist. Some policies require co-payments for some benefits. You should be familiar with what your policy does and does not pay.

EVALUATION - Physical therapists evaluate your condition, set up a treatment program, answer your questions about your care and keep a record of your progress. The objective of physical therapy is to treat and prevent disability and to relieve pain, increase your ability to function, and help you meet your treatment goals.

YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM - Physical therapists communicate with other healthcare providers involved in your treatment so that you receive comprehensive, quality care with the maximum outcome. You as the patient are a part of the team too, and your physical therapist will discuss your treatment and answer your questions about your program.