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Beyond discharge disposition: a scoping review on sociodemographic disparities in rehabilitation use after hip and knee arthroplasty.

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Widespread Pressure Pain Hyperalgesia Is Not Associated with Morphological Changes of the Wrist Extensor Tendon in Unilateral Lateral Epicondylalgia: A Case–Control Study

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Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation in Reducing Pain and Disability in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism research in physical therapy over the last 25 years: a scoping review, long-term follow-up of a person-centered prehabilitation program based on cognitive-behavioral physical therapy for patients scheduled for lumbar fusion, the targeted motor control screening tool is valid for four-year-old children., instructing to impact: exploration of doctor of physical therapy education instruction of social determinants of health and health equity for people with disabilities, prognostic factors and treatment effect modifiers for physical health, opioid prescription, and health care utilization in patients with musculoskeletal disorders in primary care: exploratory secondary analysis of the stems randomized trial of direct access to physical therapist–led care, relationship among falls, fear of falling, and physical activity level in patients on hemodialysis, the effect of total knee replacement on dual-task gait performance in older adults, inspiratory muscle training in patients living with chronic kidney disease and receiving hemodialysis: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, lgbtqia+ cultural competence in physical therapist education and practice: a qualitative study from the patients’ perspective, unlocking patient voices: advancing physical therapist practice with discrete choice experiments, inspiratory muscle training in phase 1 and 2 postoperative cardiac rehabilitation following coronary artery bypass graft surgery: systematic review with meta-analysis, factors associated with physical inactivity of recipients of a kidney transplant: results from the adhere brazil multicenter study., on “is clinical research as helpful to clinicians as it could be” turolla a, guccione aa, tedeschi r, pillastrini p. phys ther . 2023;103(8):pzad060. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzad060, validation of the cervical torsion test and head neck differentiation test in patients with peripheral vestibular hypofunction, prognosis of pain after stroke during rehabilitation depends on the pain quality, attitudes and beliefs of physical therapists and physical therapist students towards working with older adults: a systematic review, efficacy of physical activity promoting interventions in physical therapy and exercise therapy for persons with noncommunicable diseases: an overview of systematic reviews, efficacy of rehabilitative techniques on pain relief in patients with vulvodynia: a systematic review and meta-analysis, accreditation can advance excellence in physical therapist education: a call to action, igniting the fire of discovery: creating partnerships between research, education, and practice, concurrent validity and reliability of video-based approach to assess physical function in adults with knee osteoarthritis, a call to action: develop physical therapist practice guidelines to affirm people who identify as lgbtqia+, accumulative assessment of upper extremity, national benchmarks to understand how doctor of physical therapy learners from minoritized race and ethnicity groups perceive their physical therapist education program, functional recovery of adults following acute covid-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis, when east meets west: considerations in physical therapist care for the asian american population, differences in pain experience among different racial and ethnic groups, community mobility among older adults who are socioeconomically disadvantaged: addressing the poverty penalty, queering the physical therapy curriculum: competency standards to eliminate lgbtqia+ health disparities, email alerts.

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Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association

Affiliations.

• 1 Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
• 2 Department of Physical Therapy, and Clinical & Translational Research, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA.
• 3 Department of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA.
• 4 Krannert School of Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
• 5 Scientific Affairs, American Physical Therapy Association, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.
• 6 Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.
• PMID: 37712887
• PMCID: PMC10549784
• DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzad126

Research agendas play an important role in directing scholarly inquiry in a field. The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) outlines research priorities that are vital to advancing physical therapist practice and the profession. The development of the research agenda included multiple iterative steps and feedback from stakeholders. A research agenda subgroup (n = 6) of the APTA Scientific and Practice Affairs Committee (SPAC), with APTA staff support, gathered information on existing research agendas, developed draft priority descriptions, and gathered feedback via surveys. The subgroup first conducted an environmental scan of the research agendas in the physical therapy and rehabilitation fields. To gather information about research priorities, APTA's Technology and Organizational Performance department distributed a survey to 3 samples. APTA staff organized the feedback, and SPAC edited and synthesized a draft agenda. This draft was sent out in survey form to the original samples and to members of the APTA Academy of Research. Concurrently, a repeat environmental scan was conducted. A final draft of the research agenda was sent for final review to a smaller cohort (n = 95) that included content experts in each of the main categories of the agenda as identified by the APTA Academy of Research. The SPAC research agenda subgroup reviewed and incorporated the information into the final draft. The final research agenda includes priorities in topical areas (population health, mechanistic research, clinical research, education/professional development research, health services research, and workforce development) identified as key in the evolution of our profession.

Impact: The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA identifies research priorities within the profession vital to advancing the practice and profession of physical therapy. The research agenda has 6 key areas of focus: population health research, mechanistic research, clinical research, education and professional development research, health services research, and workforce research. Researchers, funding agencies, and public policy makers can use the research agenda to concentrate research efforts around these areas.

Keywords: APTA; Agenda; American Physical Therapy Association: History; American Physical Therapy Association: Policies, Positions, and Standards; Physical Therapy; Research.

© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association.

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Physical Therapy

Clinical research.

Physical Therapists in the Rehabilitation Medicine Department at the NIH Clinical Center participate in numerous active NIH protocols and collaborate with investigators from among the 27 NIH institutes and Centers, including interdisciplinary researchers within the NIH Clinical Research Center.

Physical Therapy research participation involves working with patients having a wide range of rare diagnoses. Physical Therapy assessments may include muscle strength, range of motion, cardiopulmonary function, gait, pain, posture, foot and ankle alignment, edema, and pediatric developmental patterns. Physical therapists participate in protocol development, data management and analysis, presentation, and manuscript preparation and publication. Therapists participate as associate investigators in many clinical research protocols. Contact the Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Physical Therapy Section for additional information.

Examples of studies and research protocols in which NIH Clinical Center Physical Therapists are involved:

• Assessment of muscle strength in patients with dermatomyositis receiving a variety of treatments.
• Assessment of impairments and disabilities in patients with Muscular Dystrophies.
• Evaluation of impairments and disabilities in patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1).
• Exercise intervention in Post-Covid Syndrome.
• Evaluation of motor function after gene therapy in children with giant axonal neuropathy (GAN).

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Listing of PhD programs and their focus areas.

Click for additional details., arcadia university - movement science.

MSK: Shoulder, Hip, Knee, and Lower Extremity Overuse Neuro: Stroke, Parkinson's, and MS CardioPulm: Acute care and lung transplant

Augusta University - Applied Health Sciences

Rehabilitation

Azusa Pacific University - PhD in Rehabilitation and Movement Science

This online program is designed to accommodate the working professional. Students will graduate equipped to advance education and research in rehabilitation and movement science. Areas of research focus include: musculoskeletal disorders, pain science, cardiovascular disorders, mental health, performing arts, biomechanics, and movement science.

Bellarmine University - PhD in Health Professions Education

Overall health professions

Boston University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program

Function, Participation and Environment; Movement Science; Rehabilitation Interventions

Drexel University - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Movement science, muscle physiology, neuromuscular performance, pediatric rehabilitation, family centered care, community engagement and physical activity participation, pain management, functional outcomes in older adults and people living with disability

Duke University - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Health Sciences

Musculoskeletal epidemiology and health services research

Duquesne University - Rehabilitation Science

Clinical Biomechanics, Orthopedics, Outcomes, Musculoskeletal

East Carolina University - Rehabilitation Sciences

Human movement science and disorders, physiology of aging muscles, pediatric evaluation and rehabilitation, musculoskeletal injury biomechanics and neuromechanics, muscle physiology and exercise, locomotion optimization, degenerative disease neurobiology, age-related balance control and sensorimotor processing

Emory University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Emory University School of Medicine & Georgia Institute of Technology’s School of Applied Physiology

Neural Plasticity, Motor Control, and Neuromechanics

Georgia State University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Department of Physical Therapy & Department of Kinesiology

Orthopedics, Biomechanics, Pediatrics, Motor Control, Neuroplasticity, Skeletal Muscle Biology

Idaho State University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Rehabilitation Sciences provides students with a wealth of interprofessional, academic, and scholarly training opportunities to develop their area of expertise (eg., Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation, etc.) and become independent scholars, educators, administrators, or leaders within their disciplines. The program is offered through either traditional (on-campus; Pocatello, ID or Meridian, ID) or non-traditional (online) models with full-time or part-time options.

Indiana University- Indianapolis - Health and Rehabilitation Science

This in-person (face-to-face) program is designed to develop research scientists in rehabilitation and movement science across the spectrum of research from pre-clinical to clinical to implementation. Areas of research focus may include: musculoskeletal health and disorders, neuromuscular health and disorders, biomechanics, movement science.

Loma Linda University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Designed as a working professional PhD, this program strives to make the degree accessible to physical therapists seeking to enhance their knowledge, conduct outstanding research or to pursue a position to educate the next generation. The program is offered in several modalities: Face to Face, Online and Hybrid to provide flexibility for practicing PTs. A variety of themes are available to match the interest of the student including orthopedics, pain science, neurology and motion sensitivity.

Marquette University - Exercise and Rehabilitation Science

The Exercise and Rehabilitation Science graduate program provides rigorous training in translational research with a unique emphasis in rehabilitation disciplines, including biomechanics, neuroscience, motor control, exercise physiology and sports medicine. You will conduct original research and graduate with a specific area of expertise as well as a core of interdisciplinary knowledge in rehabilitation science. You will leave Marquette prepared to impact the rapidly emerging field of rehabilitation health science as a researcher, faculty scholar, or advanced clinician. Areas of focus include: Neuromuscular physiology, exercise physiology, neural control of movement, skeletal muscle bioenergetics, vascular physiology, sensory perception and pain, biomechanics, and health behavioral strategy

Medical University of South Carolina - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science

The three tracks of our program are Pathology and Impairment, Functional Limitations, and Health Services

MGH Institute of Health Professions - PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Program

The PhD program in Rehabilitation Sciences at MGH Institute of Health Professions trains scientists to conduct research in health and rehabilitation-related fields. Applicants may be clinicians in a health or rehabilitation field (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, medicine) scientists, engineers, or other professionals seeking advanced graduate study and interprofessional research training. A graduate degree (MS or MA) or entry-level clinical degree is required. The impact of disabilities on society is growing as our population ages. Demand is rising for professionals who can conduct clinical research in rehabilitation. The MGH Institute's Interdisciplinary PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences is meeting this critical need by preparing healthcare professionals to conduct high-quality rehabilitation research in academic, research, and/or healthcare settings.

New York University - Pathokinesiology

Biomechanics, Motor Control, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation

Northeastern University - Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences

Conduct independent (original) basic, translational, and applied research to restore and maximize human functional capacity and wellbeing across the lifespan. The interdisciplinary program and its faculty emphasize core competencies in motor control and motor learning, movement measurement and analysis, knowledge translation theory, and the use of traditional and emerging technologies.

Northeastern University - Personal Health Informatics

Mobile health and applications, data safety and implications, social networking systems connecting families and their medical support networks

Northwestern University - PhD in Neuroscience with specialization in Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS)

This program combines a solid training in fundamental neurobiology with training in basic quantitative methods for the development of the scientific knowledge base required for the construction of more effective rehabilitation interventions.

Northwestern University - DPT/PhD (Eng) Dual Degree Program

Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS) research focused on understanding the mechanisms involved in movement disorders and developing alternative therapies and devices to address these impairments.

Nova Southeastern University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Clinical, Educational, and Fundamental science researches

Oakland University - Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science

The mission of the Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science program is to prepare leaders, educators and researchers. This degree is designed for physical therapists, exercise science and movement science professionals interested in obtaining the knowledge and skills to produce relevant research in human movement science. Certificates are available in orthopedics, orthopedic manual physical therapy, oncology rehabilitation, teaching and learning, and clinical exercise science or students may develop an individualized concentration in research.

Ohio University - Translational Biomedical Sciences

Motor Control Biomechanics Muscle Physiology

Old Dominion University - Kinesiology & Rehabilitation

This interprofessional program develops research skills of clinicians and movement scientists to contribute to our understanding of how humans move, how this breaks down with aging, musculoskeletal injury, or neurological disease, and how motor skills can be developed through rehabilitation. Students develop knowledge in motor control and learning, neuroscience, and biomechanics to answer kinesiology and rehabilitation questions.

Pacific University - PhD in Education and Leadership Program

<p>This unique, low residency PhD program in Education and Leadership is for experienced educators and health professionals who are committed to building a more equitable world through research and leadership.&nbsp;The PhD Program in Education and Leadership is an inter-professional graduate program built on a commitment to radical inclusion and interprofessional education and is structured for the 21st century working professional. </p> <p>Program is interdisciplinary, Interim Director has both a PhD and a DPT. Virtual, part-time program, 6 credits/term.</p>

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions - PhD in Health Sciences @Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Neurological rehabilitation, orthopedic sports sciences, pediatric sciences, health professions education, healthcare leadership &amp; administration, athletic training, health promotion and wellness, human sport &amp; performance

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science - Interprofessional Healthcare Studies

Interprofessional Education and Interprofessional Clinical Proactice. Program admits between 4-6 students every other year.

Rutgers School of Health Professions - Rutgers University Health Professions

Movement and/or Neuro Science&nbsp;

Saint Louis University - PhD in Integrative and Applied Sciences, Health Sciences Concentration

The Health Sciences concentration, at Saint Louis University, prepares students to become scholars and researchers within academic, clinical research, and practice settings by conducting interdisciplinary studies of biological, behavioral, psychosocial and environmental aspects of human health.

Stony Brook University - Health and Rehabilitation Science in the School of Health Technology and Management

Translational research program consisting of an interdisciplinary course of study with concentrations in Disability Studies, Behavioral and Community Health, and Rehabilitation and Movement Science.​ S​tudents conduct research in areas such as basic science, applied research, clinical research, community-based participatory research, educational science, policy and public health/epidemiology.

Temple University - Neuromotor Science

Graduates are prepared to advance science in neuromotor processes including assessment and evaluation of movement, understanding of neuromotor function and integration and its impact on movement on health, functioning and disability, and contributing to the development of interventions to improve human movement – particularly posture and locomotor control and function across the lifespan.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - PhD in Rehabilitation Science @Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Clinical anatomy, clinical biomechanics/gait, clinical musculoskeletal rehabilitation, clinical postural control/balance, communication sciences and disorders

Texas Woman's University - PhD in Physical Therapy

The PhD program at TWU is committed to the scientific basis of clinical practice. Students are encouraged to develop their own line of research based on their interests and current areas of clinical practice. Coursework and 1:1 faculty mentoring is designed to prepare students for careers in academia as well as to lead clinical research teams. The program provides a framework for students to develop advanced research and teaching skills. The student, upon graduation, will be able to perform advanced statistical techniques, evaluate and synthesize literature, utilize various instrumentation frequently used in rehabilitation research, develop grants and manuscripts, demonstrate proficiency with current research-related software applications, and understand and apply various teaching strategies.

The Ohio State University - Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Neuroscience, Neural Rehabilitation, Spinal Cord Injury, Biomechanics (Shoulder, Hip, Knee, Gait), Degenerative Neurologic Diseases, Pediatrics (motor development),

The Ohio State University - Neuroscience PhD Program

spinal cord injury, cellular and molecular neuroscience

The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Rehabilitation Science - School of Health Professions

Movement Science, Exercise Science, Occupation Science studied across the domains of body structure and function; activity, and participation/quality of life, and applied to populations with health conditions or disease processes that involve physical rehabilitation.

The University of Vermont - Neuroscience

Neuroscience

The University of Vermont - Interprofessional Health Sciences

Biomedical and Health science, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Integrative Health, Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences

University at Buffalo, State University of New York - Rehabilitation Science PhD

Neuroscience (clinical to basic), Pediatrics, Simulation-based learning, Assistive technology, Fall and frailty prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Vestibular and balance physiology

University of California, San Francisco - Rehabilitation Science

The UCSF Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, in collaboration with faculty from the Department of Physical Therapy at San Francisco State University (SFSU), provides a unique opportunity to study rehabilitation science. Our PhD in Rehabilitation Science program addresses the broader perspective of basic and clinical sciences in two research tracks: Neuroscience and Musculoskeletal Biomechanics.

University of Central Florida - Kinesiology

Kinesiology; Rehabilitation Science; Sports Science

University of Cincinnati - Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

This is a new program: rehabilitation science, nutrition, movement science, health sciences, human performance

University of Colorado - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Applied Exercise and Cardiopulmonary Physiology, Applied Motor Control, Applied Biomechanics, Health Services, Implementation and Dissemination Science, Clinical Trials, Translational Rehabilitation Technology

University of Delaware - Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science

(1) Applied Anatomy and Physiology(2) Biomechanics (3) Cytomechanics (4) Motor Control and Behavior; and (5) Clinical and Translational Science.

University of Florida - Rehabilitation Science PhD Program

Movement Science Disability Science

University of Illinois, Chicago - Rehabilitation Sciences

Neurological rehabilitation, Cardiovascular rehabilitation, Sports physical therapy, Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal rehabilitation,

University of Iowa - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Human Movement Control/Performance, Neurobiology of Pain, Neuromuscular Biomechanics, Orthopedic Gait Analysis, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Sports Medicine, Human Integrative and Cardiovascular Physiology, Applied Neuroplasticity.

University of Jamestown - Clinical Research

Clinical Research

University of Kansas Medical Center - Rehabilitation Science

The program is designed to prepare outstanding leaders who advance innovative interdisciplinary research in rehabilitation science. A major focus of the program is to advance the science of rehabilitation and to elucidate the scientific basis for the procedures and processes used in clinical practice. Areas of research emphasis include studies designed to (1) promote an understanding of the pathology of injury, disease, functional impairment, and associated disabilities, (2) espouse the rationale for therapies designed to alleviate impaired human function and related physical and mental disabilities, and (3) to advance educational innovations in physical therapy and athletic training education.

University of Kentucky - Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program

Musculoskeletal issues, neurorehabilitation, health services research

University of Maryland - Baltimore - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Neuromotor Control & Rehab Core Concentration: This core concentration area of study consists of two facets: neuromotor science and motor control. Neuromotor science refers to knowledge about brain anatomy, biology, and physiology in relation to movement and movement disorders. Relevant techniques for research might include brain imaging, transcranial magnetic stimulation, startle probes, peripheral nerve stimulation or electroencephalography each of which are available to the trainees. Motor control refers to knowledge about the principles of interaction between neural/physiological, biomechanical, behavioral and developmental systems underlying movement function and dysfunction that can inform rehabilitation assessments and interventions. Relevant techniques for research might include physiological and biomechanical analyses, adaptation and learning paradigms, and clinical tests of movement function. Students are expected to have a knowledge-base in both areas but the specific applications will depend on their research questions.

University of Miami - Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy

Health Outcomes Neuroscience Cardiopulmonary Musculoskeletal

University of Michigan-Flint - PhD in Physical Therapy; Dual DPT/PhD in Physical Therapy

The focus is on the movement sciences, higher education/leadership, and research/scholarship. Students spend sufficient time on campus for coursework (mix of in-person/online), interacting with other graduate students and their Chair/Committee, conducting research, and fostering intellectual activities.

University of Minnesota - Rehabilitation Science

The mission of the Division of Rehabilitation Science is to discover and disseminate rehabilitation knowledge and improve the quality of life, participation, health, performance and well-being of people in Minnesota and throughout the world. Our mission further encompasses the cultivation of premier leaders and researchers in academia, industry and clinical environments to transform the science and practice of rehabilitation, specifically in areas of (1) Activity, Participation and Disability; (2) Cardiorespiratory Physiology and Rehabilitation; (3) Movement Disorders; (4) Musculoskeletal Health and Biomechanics; (5) Neurobehavioral and Neuroplasticity; (6) Rehab Engineering and Assistive Technology; (7) Sex Differences in Health and Disease; and (8) Therapeutic Clinical Assessment, Intervention and Outcomes.

University of Missouri - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science at the School of Health Professions, University of Missouri

This is an interdisciplinary, research-focused doctoral program designed to prepare students for careers in research, higher education, and organizational leadership in the health disciplines (including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, health psychology, health science and public health).

University of Montana - Integrative Physiology and Rehabilitation Sciences

Student-advisor/committee driven, but include physiology, biomechanics, and clinical applications to rehabilitation sciences.

University of Nebraska Medical Center - University of Nebraska Medical Center Medical Science Interdepartmental Area

1) Applied Behavior Analysis, 2) Clinically Relevant Basic Research, 3) Clinical & Translational Research Mentored Scholars Program, Patient Oriented Research, and 4) Health Practice and Medical Education Research, 5) Oral Biology, 6) Patient-Oriented Research, 7) Regenerative Medicine & Biomaterials Design

University of Nevada, Las Vegas - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

Core classes - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences core classes (24 credits) Rehabilitation Sciences (36 credits) - Pathobiomechanics, neurodegenerative diseases, health services

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill - Human Movement Science Curriculum

1) Biomechanics, 2) Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and 3) Exercise Physiology

Biomechanics, Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and Exercise Physiology

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - PhD in Allied Health Sciences with Specialization in Rehabilitation Sciences

Aging, rehabilitative technology, biomechanics, cancer, musculoskeletal conditions, stroke or pediatrics

University of Pittsburgh - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Technology, Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation Counselling, Health Information Management

University of South Carolina - Columbia - Rehabilitation Sciences Division of Exercise Science

Applied Physiology, Health Aspects of Physical Activity, and Rehabilitation Sciences.&nbsp; Health insurance also covered for students in good standing.

University of South Dakota, School of Health Sciences - PhD in Health Sciences

<p>The interprofessional Ph.D. in Health Sciences is designed to prepare practicing health care professionals to assume leadership roles in academia, research, and/or health and human services practice settings. Areas of focus are Teaching, Leadership and Issues in Health &amp; Human Services, Discipline-Related, and Research.</p>

University of Southern California - USC Division of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy

Neurorehabilitation, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, Exercise Science, Motor Development

University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston - Rehabilitation Sciences

The program focuses on interdisciplinary research in health prevention, intervention and recovery associated with disabilities and chronic disease, data science, and translational research.

University of Utah - Rehabilitation Sciences

<p>The mission of the doctoral program in Rehabilitation Science is to advance the scientific knowledge underlying the clinical practice of rehabilitation by preparing students to conduct independent scientific research and function as an academic faculty member.&nbsp; Areas of focus of this interdisciplinary program include evidence based management of disease and disability (specifically low back pain, neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, knee/hip osteoarthritis, total knee/hip arthroplasty, lower limb amputation), sports injury prevention and recovery, skeletal muscle physiology (aging, metabolic dysfunction), physical activity promotion for older adults and biomechanics.</p>

University of Washington - PhD program in rehabilitation science @UW

Rehabilitation science

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee - PhD in Health Sciences

biomedical sciences, communication sciences and disorders, health informatics, kinesiology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, rehabilitation sciences.

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Clinical Investigation

Virginia commonwealth university - rehabilitation and movement science.

There are two program concentrations: exercise physiology and neuromusculoskeletal dynamics. The exercise physiology concentration prepares individuals to conduct research, direct external funding initiatives and teach in the area of exercise physiology, with particular focus on physical activity's impact on chronic disease states. The neuromusculoskeletal dynamics concentration prepares individuals for research, teaching and clinical initiatives associated with the identification and rehabilitation of movement disorders.

Virginia Commonwealth University - Health Related Sciences

Interdisciplinary core of courses with a specialty tract in Physical Therapy. The program emphasizes use of distance learning technologies combined with traditional didactic methods. The Department of Physical Therapy has a strong academic record of producing highly credible and clinically relevant science for this program in the areas of health services and musculoskeletal research.

Washington University in St. Louis - Movement Science Program

The Movement Science PhD Program at Washington University offers the opportunity to study at the biological intersection of mechanics, energetics, and neural control systems. The Movement Science Program offers training to investigate and improve movement in people with chronic diseases such as stroke, diabetes, low back pain, Parkinson disease, hip disorders and obesity. Studies span the full spectrum of investigation levels, from fundamental discovery through clinical application. Our students become part of the next generation of scientists improving human health through movement. They go on to pursue postdoctoral fellowships, academic faculty positions, and careers in industry.

West Virginia University - Biomedical Sciences

Pathophysiology, Rehabilitation, Performance, Neuroscience&nbsp;

Widener University - Health Professions Education

This is an Interprofessional program for those in the health professions that prepares them for education and research in their field

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THE FOUNDATION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY RESEARCH

The Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization governed by a board of trustees.

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research is an independent 501(c)(3) governed by a Board of Trustees . Our work would not be possible without the guidance and expertise of an extraordinary group of volunteers who serve on our board and those who serve on special committees . Many have first-hand experience as past recipients of Foundation funding.

Our team also includes the people that carry out the foundation’s day-to-day operations and strategic plan — the foundation’s staff ., our board of trustees.

FOUNDATION COMMITTEES

If you are interested in serving on a Special Committee of the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, please contact Barbara Malm, Chief Executive Officer at  [email protected] . Your name will be added to our pool of potential volunteers. Committee members are selected by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

2023 Standing Committees

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Paul Rockar, President Stuart Binder-Macleod, Vice President Rebecca Craik, Secretary Don Jackson, Treasurer

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Don Jackson (Treasurer – Chair) Barbara Connolly Jimmy McKay Paul Rockar

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Barbara Connolly (Chair) Don Jackson Marilyn Moffat

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Chris Powers, (Chair) Nancy Byl Rebecca Craik Linda Van Dillen

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SCIENTIFIC REVIEW COMMITTEE

Selected by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, the SRC is composed of physical therapists and other individuals with experience in preparing students for research careers. The SRC is appointed by the Board of Trustees and is vital to awarding annual scholarships, fellowships, and grants each year. If you meet the SRC Selection Criteria and are interested in joining this all-volunteer committee and serving as a reviewer – or know of someone who could serve as an application reviewer- please email [email protected] for more information.

CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP ON THE SCIENTIFIC REVIEW COMMITTEE

a. Must hold a PhD or equivalent degree from an accredited university b. Must have personal experience conducting research, as evidenced by a sustained publication record in refereed, peer-reviewed journals c. Must have received extramural, peer-reviewed grants as a principal investigator d. Experience reviewing grant proposals on an National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, Veterans’ Administration, or other national level funding organization study panel, such as the American Heart Association study panel is desirable e. Expertise in content areas valuable to research such as the use of outcome measurement tools and instruments and quality of life evaluations is desirable. f. Must have knowledge about the physical therapy profession as evidenced by APTA membership, active participation at national APTA meetings, a sustained record of service at the component level, or a history of collaboration with physical therapists. g. Knowledge of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Research Agenda is preferable (The APTA agenda can be provided for those that may have limited knowledge). h. Demonstrated commitment to support junior investigators in their development to become successful and independent researchers. i. Must understand that SRC members are ineligible to apply for Foundation for Physical Therapy funding during their term of service.

Vicki Tysseling, PT, PHD

Scientific Review Committee Chair Northwestern University

Beth Smith, PT, DPT, PHD

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T. George Hornby, PT, PHD, FAPTA

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MARK BOWDEN, PT, PHD

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TIMOTHY BRINDLE, PHD

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NOELLE MOREAU, PT, PHD

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JASON FALVEY, PT, DPT, PHD

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SARA GOMBATTO, PT, PHD

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ADAM GOODE, PT, DPT, PHD

Duke University

LAURITA M. HACK, PT, DPT, PhD, MBA, FAPTA

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ANNE KLOOS, PT, PHD

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MURRAY E. MAITLAND, PT, PHD

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JOHN POPOVICH, JR., PT, DPT, ATC, PHD

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LIANG-CHING TSAI, PT, PHD 

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LISA VANHOOSE, PT, MPH, PHD 

Ujima Institute

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University of Colorado

Julie M. Fritz, PT, PhD, FAPTA

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Amy Bailes, PT, PhD

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Sue Effgen, PT, PhD, FAPTA, MMSc

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Sandra Kaplan, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA

Rutgers University

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Diversity, equity & inclusion statement / policy.

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, provision of services, and the awarding of grants, scholarships and fellowships. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, grant and scholarship applicants and funding recipients.

All staff are employees of the APTA. The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research strictly adheres to all employment policies of APTA and strives to create a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive work environment.

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The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research believes diversity and inclusion is an essential component to driving its mission Any individual(s) with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research as the Principal Investigator(s) is encouraged to work with his/her organization to develop an application for support and to seek support from FPTR staff to address any concerns or questions.

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Professional Roles of Oncologic Specialty Physical Therapists in the United States

Stout, Nicole L. DPT, CLT-LANA, FAPTA 1,2 ; Pfalzer, Lucinda PT, PhD, FAPTA, FASCM 3 ; Drouin, Jacqueline S PT, PhD 4 ; Litterini, Amy DPT 5,6 ; Tible, Amy DPT 7 ; Demarse, Elizabeth DPT 8,9

1 School of Medicine, West Virginia University Cancer Institute, Morgantown, WV

2 School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV

3 College of Health Sciences, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI

4 Drouin Consulting, LLC, Clarkston, MI

5 Maine Health Cancer Care Network, Scarborough, ME

6 Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, University of New England, Portland, ME

7 Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY

8 Nova Southeastern University, Tampa, FL

9 Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL

Correspondence: Nicole L. Stout, DPT, CLT-LANA, FAPTA, West Virginia University Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Cancer Prevention and Control, West Virginia University, PO Box 9350, Morgantown, WV 26506 ( [email protected] ).

This study was approved by the West Virginia University Institutional Review Board protocol number 2104299359.

All authors are past or current members of the ABPTS Oncologic Specialty Council.

Dr Stout is Consultant, Survivorship Solutions LLC, and Education Consultant, Medbridge Inc. The other authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citation appears in the printed text and is provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Web site ( www.rehabonc.com ).

Online Publication date: January 3, 2022

Background: 

Oncologic specialty physical therapists (OncPTs) are a growing discipline in the cancer workforce. The complexities of cancer care delivery and the multidimensional nature of cancer care teams require oncology providers to serve in professional roles beyond clinical care. This project aims to assess the professional roles that OncPTs play in cancer care delivery.

Methods: 

A 27-item survey was developed by the Oncologic Specialty Council of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties and sent electronically to board-certified oncologic clinical specialists in the United States. The survey was open for 45 days. Demographics of the population and frequency data were analyzed in Qualtrics.

Results: 

Fifty-seven complete surveys were received out of 106 eligible specialists (response rate 53%). Respondents were predominantly female (91%) and White (78%). Fifty-six percent (n = 32) had greater than 15 years of practice experience and 68% (n = 39) held DPTs. Seventy-three percent reported greater than 50% of their work week dedicated to oncology practice and 52.6% reported providing consultations or treatment in the physical space of a cancer center. All respondents have been board-certified OncPTs for at least 1 year. Providing clinical care accounted for 71% of the cohorts' work time and 14% was spent in program development (outside of clinical care). Specialists reported oncology-specific program development responsibilities across 3 themes: workforce development (mentoring and teaching peers and staff), establishing clinical practice standards (standardizing assessment tools and clinical pathways), and program assessment (quality improvement and research). The OncPT professional roles included leadership responsibilities within their health system (n = 24) and leadership or committee roles in rehabilitation-specific professional organizations (n = 55). No respondents reported serving in roles regarding research mentorship or advising on state policy or payer issues, and 1 respondent identified a role in advising on federal policy issues.

Conclusion: 

Oncologic specialty physical therapists primarily serve clinical patient care roles. Aside from clinical practice, program development roles focus on rehabilitation-centric staff and student education and clinical pathways for rehabilitation care delivery. However, at the cancer care delivery system level, participation in professional roles beyond the rehabilitation clinic is less frequent. Gaps in participation are identified at the societal level with no representation from this cohort in payment and policy initiatives at the state and federal levels. We provide a roadmap to action that describes multilevel interventions to improve the integration of OncPTs into cancer care delivery. These findings may inform competencies for clinical specialists and guide residency program development.

Board specialty certification in oncologic physical therapy was approved by the American Physical Therapy Association House of Delegates in 2016. The initial certification examination was first administered in 2019 by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) and is given annually. Specialization is defined by the ABPTS as “... the process by which a physical therapist builds on a broad base of professional education and practice to develop greater depth of knowledge and skills related to a particular area of practice. Clinical specialization in physical therapy responds to a specific area of patient need and requires knowledge, skill, and experience that exceeds entry-level physical therapist practice and is unique to the specialized area of practice.” 1 Board-certified oncologic specialty physical therapists (OncPTs) are a growing discipline in the cancer workforce, with 130 board-certified clinical specialists in the United States today.

Oncology care is inherently interdisciplinary and most effective when conducted by teams that span medical specialties relevant to the cancer treatment plan. 2 Cancer care teams also include supportive care personnel to promote optimal quality of life and function of the patient. 3 While the rehabilitation provider is identified as a requisite member of this team, 4 care planning and care coordination occur outside of the rehabilitation system of care delivery and extend beyond clinical patient care. Professional roles for the OncPT may include navigation services 5 ; consultative engagements with the care team 6 ; cancer care payment and policy development 7 , 8 ; and participation in quality improvement initiatives, 9 lecturing and speaking engagements, mentorship, and advocacy work, 10 among other roles. However, no formal assessment has been conducted to examine the roles that OncPTs are playing as it relates to oncology clinical care or to the oncology care team.

The purpose of this article is to describe the results of a survey of OncPT specialists in the United States, which identifies the roles that OncPTs have undertaken to advance cancer care delivery in their settings. We characterize how these individuals are growing and developing their knowledge and skills and explore how they are contributing to the health care system and to society at large.

Survey Development and Deployment

A 27-item survey was developed by the Oncologic Specialty Council, the leadership body responsible for board examination development and validation. The survey was based on the Professional Roles and Responsibilities section of the Oncologic Description of Specialty Practice document. Five physical therapists, who are current or previous Specialty Council members, each with greater than 15 years of clinical experience in oncology practice and research, reviewed the tool to establish face and content validity. After receiving ethics and Institutional Review Board approval, * the survey was distributed electronically on May 22, 2021, to the current pool of certified clinical specialists. Specialists were contacted by email and provided with a generic link to the survey. After completing the electronic informed consent, the respondents were asked to provide their last name to verify status as a board-certified specialist and ensure their eligibility. All respondents' status as clinical specialists was verified against the current roster of recognized specialists.

Following initial outreach, email follow-up to eligible specialists was repeated on 2 separate occasions to encourage participation. The survey closed on July 6, 2021. The survey was developed, deployed, and responses obtained in Qualtrics † , an electronic, secure platform. The survey tool (see Supplemental Digital Content Appendix A, available at: https://links.lww.com/REHABONC/A30 ) covered 4 domains: specialist demographic information, clinical practice characteristics of the individual OncPTs, professional activities that the OncPT is involved in at the level of the rehabilitation clinical setting and the cancer care delivery setting, and professional roles that OncPTs engage in at the societal level.

Data Analysis

Qualtrics was used for data collection and descriptive frequency of responses. SPSS Version 26 was used for all statistical analyses including characterizing the shape, central tendency, and variability within the study sample. The frequency of each response was calculated and examined for trends.

Respondents provided the zip code of their practice setting, which was used to map their geographic location and to identify the county in which they work. County-level data were mapped to the United States Department of Agriculture Rural-Urban Continuum Codes, which classify counties as metropolitan or nonmetropolitan (rural) based on census data.

At the time of survey enrollment, 106 OncPTs were eligible for participation and 62 individuals responded to the questions. Five surveys were not completed and removed from the analysis, leaving 57 completed surveys for analysis (response rate = 53%). All respondents were board-certified OncPTs for at least 1 year.

Demographics and Practice Characteristics of Clinical Specialists

The respondents were predominantly female (91%; n = 52) and White (78%; n = 45). Fifty-six percent (n = 32) had greater than 15 years of practice experience and 68% (n = 39) held doctor of physical therapy degrees. The respondents most commonly reported working in outpatient ambulatory (63%) and acute care (31%) settings, with 52.6% reported providing consultations or treatment within the physical space of a cancer center. Full-time employment was reported by 75.4% of respondents and 73% identified that they spent 50% of their work week and greater dedicated to oncology practice. Most OncPTs worked in rehabilitation departments of hospitals (n = 40). Table 1 describes the demographic characteristics of the respondents by year of board specialty certification and Table 2 presents the clinical practice characteristics and settings.

Figure 1 illustrates the clinical specialists' practice location, by zip code, including designations of rurality. Distribution of the respondents favors coastal regions and larger metropolitan areas. Three practice settings were in United States Department of Agriculture Rural-Urban Continuum Codes designated rural counties.

On average, 71% (SD ± 30.7) of the OncPT respondents' weekly work time is spent in a clinical role providing patient care; 14% (SD ± 23.4) of time is devoted to professional service activities that include tumor boards or oncology program development. Time dedicated to academic teaching was 6.4% (SD ± 16.9), 4.8% (SD ± 8.4) to student mentorship, and 1.7% (SD ± 4.8) to research. Figure 2 outlines the ways in which specialists are working to maintain their specialty knowledge and skills.

Eighty-three percent of respondents reported receiving some form of recognition from employers ( Figure 3 ). The majority of respondents (n = 31) reported that board specialty certification resulted in recognition by their employer, while 8 respondents received changes either in their job responsibilities or their title without monetary compensations. Only 3 respondents received increases in their salary and 2 received a bonus.

Job responsibility changes described by respondents included oncology-specific program development and leadership, residency program development, teaching, developing specialty clinics or classes for cancer survivors, developing care transition pathways across settings, and leading specialty groups to develop cancer care best practices. Figure 4 identifies the oncology-specific professional activities, reported as job responsibilities, that respondents had taken on in their work setting since becoming specialists.

Professional Activities and Roles Beyond Clinical Care

Table 3 outlines oncology-specific professional roles that respondents identify as part of their job duties. The most common roles include leadership roles within their facility (n = 25), developing and providing cancer rehabilitation educational programs for other health care providers (n = 24), and serving as an entry-level clinical instructor (n = 19). Five individuals reported that they are actively developing residency programs and 10 indicated actively investigating residency program development. Thirty-one percent (n = 18) reported serving on an oncology-related committee at their facility.

The respondents primarily reported participating in physical therapy–specific national and local conferences and service to the Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy. Fewer respondents reported participation or leadership in multidisciplinary oncology organizations and only 1 reported committee engagement or leadership with an international oncology organization.

Eighteen respondents reported engagement in community education efforts for patients and caregivers; however, in terms of other societal-level roles, only 1 respondent reported participation in advising State or Federal policy or payer groups.

Cancer rehabilitation is a practice area of increasing importance in cancer care delivery and one with a growing evidence base. The OncPTs are an emerging cohort of clinical care providers that support cancer treatment planning and delivery. While the primary focus of the specialization is on clinical practice, there are professional roles and responsibilities that the OncPT must play specific to cancer care delivery These roles extend beyond the rehabilitation care delivery setting and beyond what may be considered historically as key roles for a OncPTs. This survey is the first to assess the professional roles of the first 2 cohorts of individuals who have achieved the designation of OncPT.

At the level of the rehabilitation clinical practice setting, specialists reported oncology-specific program development across 3 themes: (i) workforce development efforts such as mentoring and teaching peers and staff in oncology-specific content; (ii) establishing clinical practice guidelines that include standardizing assessment tools and clinical pathways to predict outcomes; and (iii) conducting clinical program assessment through quality improvement projects and research. These capacity-building efforts are requisite and could be considered foundational principles to guide the development and sustainability of a specialty practice line in a physical therapy clinical setting.

The descriptive results suggest that while OncPTs are serving rehabilitation-centric clinical, administrative, and teaching roles, they may not be engaging as commonly in cancer care delivery at the health system level. This is a notable gap considering the rehabilitation specialist's role on system-level cancer committees and cancer care delivery–specific engagement. New accreditation standards for rehabilitation services, put forth by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, 4 and a recent report from the National Academies of Health workshop report on long-term survivorship 11 call for better integration of rehabilitation into cancer care delivery. Engaging with the cancer care delivery system not only puts rehabilitation providers at the interface of care with the patient but also solidifies their role on cancer multidisciplinary teams, an important place for the OncPT's insights to be shared to contribute to cancer care outcomes.

Multidisciplinarity in cancer care extends beyond the traditional rehabilitation team and requires the OncPT to step into roles more aligned with the cancer care delivery system. This includes applying clinical knowledge and expertise to inform tumor board decisions and cancer care plan development, advising in patient navigation and supportive care delivery, as well as serving as a consultant to oncology administrative and care delivery pathways, and representation in key accreditation roles.

Engaging in these avenues of cancer care delivery requires the OncPT to take a different approach to applying his or her knowledge and skills as a specialist. Rather than addressing cancer treatment–related physical and functional impairment through reactive, referral-based care models, the field of oncology rehabilitation leverages prehabilitation and prospective surveillance clinical models to proactively engage the rehabilitation provider in cancer care delivery. 9 , 12–16 This is unique to cancer care, deviating from how a physical therapist commonly functions in a traditional clinic setting, and requires rehabilitation administrative policies that enable better engagement with the cancer care delivery system. 17 Colocated supportive care services in cancer care improve patient satisfaction and may improve costs associated with chemotherapy delivery. 18 Cancer navigation, a specific workflow of cancer care coordination, improves timeliness and efficiency in providing services to patients with supportive care needs. 19 Calls have been made for cancer rehabilitation specialists to participate as members of the oncology care team 20 and to participate broadly in translational research and policy efforts to influence cancer care delivery. 7 , 14 , 21 , 22 To an extent, the OncPT is qualified to engage with the cancer care team beyond a clinical role to influence the cancer care delivery system in their setting.

The gaps identified in this study were primarily at the societal level where OncPTs are currently rarely serving in professional roles that advise and advocate in matters of cancer care policy and payer guidelines. The complex needs of society, such as those resulting from a sedentary lifestyle, beckon for the physical therapy profession to engage with consumers to reduce preventable health care costs and overcome barriers to participation in society to ensure the successful existence of society far into the future. While this is APTA's vision for the physical therapy profession, it is meant also to inspire others throughout society to create systems that optimize movement and function for all people. This report illustrates the roles OncPTs are fulfilling; however, work remains to enhance effect of these specialists on the multidisciplinary cancer care and the community. Enhancing the effect of these new specialists to improve cancer care will require additional resources to support these expanded responsibilities.

Limitations

OncPT is a new area of board certification with only 106 current specialists in the United States. These data represent only 53% of the current cohort of clinical specialists and should be interpreted with this awareness. Although the survey enabled open-ended responses for many questions, respondents may not have fully described their professional roles. Distribution of the survey online and for a short period was further limitation that could have limited participation. It is worth noting that this survey was distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic, a challenging time for practicing clinicians, which may have influenced the availability and ability of practicing therapists to respond to the survey.

Roadmap to Action

Using the socioecological model as a framework, we suggest multilevel stakeholder interventions that can promote oncology specialists' engagement in the professional roles associated with cancer care ( Table 4 ). 23 , 24 We suggest that these interventions can be used by any individual clinician, administrator, or health care system that is interested in developing a service line in cancer rehabilitation. Program development, even in the absence of a board-certified clinical specialist, is suggested to improve rehabilitation service integration into cancer care. Programs in cancer rehabilitation can be implemented to varying degrees based on the workforce knowledge and skills and interest. Using a 4-level framework 25 and guiding principles identified by working groups in the United Kingdom, 26 rehabilitation staff can begin to develop a clinical service line for oncology rehabilitation.

Considering that the OncPT specialty is new, these data represent the beginning of program and professional development for specialists in this field. Future cohorts of clinical specialists could be surveyed to better understand how the professional roles of the specialist change as the field matures.

Oncology practice is strongly influenced by policy, specifically accreditation standards, clinical practice guidelines, quality initiatives, and payment policy. 17 , 18 , 27 Physical therapists in oncology practice need to be aware of prevailing policy changes and should seek to position themselves to influence policy at the clinic, health care system, and societal levels. Enhanced participation in oncology-specific professional societies and associations can improve awareness of policy issues and enable engagement of OncPTs to influence policy changes.

This is the first report of the demographics and professional roles of the OncPT. Our study demonstrates that physical therapists with the oncologic clinical specialist designation practicing in the United States have the potential to leverage their expertise on multiple levels to enhance cancer care outcomes and advocate for the advancement of OncPT professionals across the continuum of care and beyond.

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* West Virginia University Institutional Review Board approved. Protocol number 2104299359.

† https://www.qualtrics.com/ Qualtrics LLC, Provo, Utah. IBM SPSS, Armonk, New York, 10504.

advanced practice; cancer rehabilitation; oncology; physical therapy; professional competencies; professional roles

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HOD P06‐19‐76‐42: APTA supports rigorous scientific inquiry as an essential requisite for developing and advancing the physical therapy profession.

Date:  September 20, 2019 Contact:  [email protected] Content Type:  Policies & Bylaws

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Early bird deadlines begin July 1 and offer additional savings.

Jun 21, 2024

Looking to expand your expertise in physical therapy? Time is running out to enroll in APTA’s comprehensive bundle of engaging lectures.

• ABPTS Board
• ABPTS Specialty Councils
• ABPTS Certified-Specialists Statistics
• ABPTS Policies and Procedures
• APTA Specialization History
• Process for Establishing a New Specialty Area
• Specialist Certification Examination Resources
• Cardiovascular & Pulmonary
• Clinical Electrophysiology
• Orthopaedics
• Women's Health
• Wound Management
• Activities That Constitute Direct Patient Care
• Application Deferment
• Specialization Associated Fees and Deadlines
• MOSC Requirements
• ABPTS Approved CEUs
• Emeritus Designation Option
• CSM Events and Activities
• Volunteer as a Specialty Council Member
• Volunteer as an ABPTS Board Member
• Promote Your Specialization
• Explore the Directory
• Check My Application Status
• Review Fees and Deadlines
• Access My Certification Record
• Frame My Certificate
• Verify Certification
• Troubleshoot Online Portal Access
• Power Your Practice With APTA Specialist Certification Presentation

APTA Specialist Certification - Governed by ABPTS

2024 initial certification exam results will be released by June 30.

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Follow Your Passion. Power Your Practice.

Join a community of excellence.

Becoming a board-certified specialist solidifies your commitment to patient care, professional growth, and the advancement of the physical therapy profession. With 10 specialized areas recognized by ABPTS , certification reflects the critical role physical therapy plays in enhancing movement and improving quality of life.

ABPTS is a Proud Member of the  Institute for Credentialing Excellence .

Learn More Apply Now

Why Specialist Certification

Join over 30,000 physical therapists who have earned certification since 1985.

• Increase your earning potential : Recent APTA reports show that board-certified clinical specialists earned, on average, $4,540 more annually than PTs who are not board certified. Enhance your professional growth and open doors to new career opportunities.
• Enhance patient care : Certification signals to patients and referral sources that you possess advanced knowledge and skills in specific care areas.
• Deepen your knowledge : Pursue the areas of physical therapy you love most.
• Lead the profession : Be at the forefront of research and practice. Board-certified specialists are leaders who drive continuous improvement in patient care.

Hear from Your Peers

"What this credential means to me is just a greater commitment toward the patients who I serve, the profession, and the students who I teach. I would encourage others to pursue specialty certification to demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to open up future career opportunities."

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Review the comprehensive Glossary of Terms Related to Certification and Assessment . 

Get Started

Apply, check your application status, and don't miss key dates.

Your certification is good for 10 years. Learn about the maintenance requirements to keep your skills sharp and stay certified.

Maintain My Certification

Important Dates and Deadlines

Cardiovascular & Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Oncology, Women's Health, and Wound Management

For candidates who did not sit or pass on first attempt.

Geriatrics, Neurology, Orthopaedics, Pediatrics, and Sports

For candidates who did not sit or pass on first exam attempt.

View all Dates and Deadlines

Engage With a Community Committed to Excellence

Become part of a network of dedicated professionals who are passionate about advancing physical therapy and improving patient outcomes. Explore our resources and join a community that values continuous learning and excellence in care.