AHPT 105 - Introduction to Physical Therapist Assisting

Credit(s): 3

This course gives the student an overview of the Physical Therapy profession by providing a historical perspective, as well as an understanding of its philosophy in relation to the professional organization; an overview of the roles of the Physical Therapy staff members in the clinical settings as well as members of the health care team in various delivery systems; development of interpersonal communication skills relating to the profession; and an understanding of the commitment of the graduate to continued personal and professional development. This course provides an overview of ethical and legal issues relating to the role of the PTA in health care delivery. It includes such topics as financing of physical therapy; regulations governing PTA’s; code of ethics; the purpose of documentation and types of medical records; an introduction to evidence-based paractice and professional literature; and scope of PT and PTA practice. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate the ability to explain the history, role, objectives, structure, and relevance of membership of the American Physical Therapy Association and the Montana Chapter of the APTA.
Describe the roles of the physical therapist assistant as pertained to 4 areas of the profession regarding interventions.
Identify basic medical, legal, ethical, confidentiality, professional development, and lifelong learning opportunity principles.
Explain the role of the Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, and Aide and the student within clinical education as it relates to the health care team, to society, and to each other.
Demonstrate an awareness of effective communication strategies, the ability to educate others, and other disciplines as a healthcare professional; Interpret the different types of legal and ethical conduct in the physical therapy field.
Identify the APTA’s “Code of Ethics”, “Hippocratic Oath,” and the “Patient’s Bill of Rights”.
Describe the relationship between health care providers and third party payers such as Medicare vs Medicaid.
Describe the purpose of documentation and the different types of medical records.
Examine and discuss issues and trends in physical therapy education, issues relevant to physical therapist assistants, direct access and referral for profit, issues and specifics of informed consent, the health professional’s role in disclosing information to patients, and ethical challenges in working with professional peers.
Demonstrate a commitment to obtaining the necessities in meeting patient’s and consumer’s needs and recognize social responsibility, advocacy, and importance of participation in community and service organizations and activities.
Evaluate and explain the differences between two state practice acts.
Accurately describe aspects of lifelong learning and continued education requirements to assist with performance improvement activities for the administration of physical therapy services.
Demonstrate knowledge of AMA style of referencing through two projects during the semester.
Collaborate with others in complicated, dynamic, and/or ambiguous situations.