Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) provide physical therapy services under the supervision of physical therapists. The physical therapist is responsible for the initial evaluation of the patient, and the establishment of the treatment plan. After the evaluation only a physical therapist or a PTA may provide the physical therapy treatments, and both collaborate in the clinic as they rehabilitate the patient.
The education of a PTA requires that the candidate earn an Associate degree and the educational programs for physical therapists require that the candidate earn a post-graduate (Master or Doctoral) degree. The graduate from this program is uniquely prepared for licensure as a PTA. As a health-care provider the PTA has many opportunities for continuing their development and the focus of their career. For some PTAs this may mean continuing their education to become a physical therapist, but it is important to note that the credits from PTA classes may not be directly transferable into the educational requirements for a physical therapist degree.
Visit the American Physical Therapy Association to learn more about the Physical Therapy profession.
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