Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
13. Yes, all of our patients will be given a home exercise program. Our office utilizes a state of the art exercise computer program that shows a before photo, a middle photo, and an end photo of each exercise. Below is an example of our easy to follow exercise program that will be tailored specifically to your injury or condition. One of the most important parts of your recovery process is your home exercise program. This may include stretching, strengthening, instructions on proper ways of performing movements, and modifications of lifestyle. Compliance with the home exercise program will greatly enhance your response to therapy, and is critical to long term success.
23. Physical therapists (PT's) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
PT's examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability. In addition, PT's work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes. State licensure is required in each state in which a physical therapist practices.
All PT's must receive a graduate degree from an accredited physical therapist program before taking the national licensure examination that allows them to practice. Now the majority of programs offer the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree.
24. You are the most important member of your own health care team and are entitled to choose the most appropriate health care professional to meet your goals. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has provided the following guidelines for choosing a physical therapist for your care.
Freedom of Choice
You have the freedom to choose your own physical therapist. Your physician may refer you for physical therapy that is to be provided in his or her office or to a facility in which he or she has a financial interest. Remember that it is your choice. You may receive physical therapy at the practice of your choosing and with a a physical therapist of your choice. In the state of New Jersey you may also go directly to a physical therapist without a physician's referral.
Keep in mind that your insurance policy may require a visit to the primary care physician first or limit your access to only preferred providers.
Physical therapists who are members of APTA are bound by the Association's Code of Ethics and are especially committed to providing competent and compassionate care.
25. Our Pledge To You: APTA's Code Of Ethics
This Code of Ethics of the American Physical Therapy Association sets forth principles for the ethical practice of physical therapy. All physical therapists are responsible for maintaining and promoting ethical practice. To this end, the physical therapist shall act in the best interest of the patient/client. This Code of Ethics shall be binding on all physical therapists.
PRINCIPLE 1
A physical therapist shall respect the rights and dignity of
all individuals and shall provide compassionate care.
PRINCIPLE 2
A physical therapist shall act in a trustworthy manner
towards patients/clients, and in all other aspects of
physical therapy practice.
PRINCIPLE 3
A physical therapist shall comply with laws and regulations
governing physical therapy and shall strive to effect
changes that benefit patients/clients.
PRINCIPLE 4
A physical therapist shall exercise sound professional
judgment.
PRINCIPLE 5
A physical therapist shall achieve and maintain professional
competence.
PRINCIPLE 6
A physical therapist shall maintain and promote high
standards for physical therapy practice, education, and
research.
PRINCIPLE 7
A physical therapist shall seek only such remuneration as is
deserved and reasonable for physical therapy services.
PRINCIPLE 8
A physical therapist shall provide and make available
accurate and relevant information to patients/clients about
their care and to the public about physical therapy
services.
PRINCIPLE 9
A physical therapist shall protect the public and the
profession from unethical, incompetent, and illegal acts.
PRINCIPLE 10
A physical therapist shall endeavor to address the health
needs of society.
PRINCIPLE 11
A physical therapist shall respect the rights, knowledge,
and skills of colleagues and other health care
professionals.
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