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.
EDUCATION - Physical therapists are graduates of professional programs in physical therapy in colleges and universities throughout the country which are accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association's Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. These programs require 4 - 6 years of study. All physical therapists practicing in New Jersey are licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy.
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 - Some states, such as New Jersey, require a referral from a physician before you can receive physical therapy. However, you always have the freedom to choose your own physical therapist. Although a physician may refer you to a physical therapy facility in which the physician has 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 health care 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.