AHPT 280 - Special Topics for the PTA

Credit(s): 1

Prerequisite(s): AHPT 101, AHPT 105, AHPT 205, AHPT 206, AHPT 210, and AHPT 218.
Corequisite(s): AHPT 201, AHPT 213, AHPT 215, and AHPT 220.
This online course teaches the theory and application of specialized areas of physical therapist assistant practice. This course will explore the mechanism of action, adverse effects, and physical therapy implications of drugs used to treat conditions commonly encountered by the physical therapist assistant. In addition, this course will explore the essential information physical therapist assistants need to be able to accurately recognize patients’ medical imaging studies in order to better understand the nature of their pathology or injury. Emphasis will be placed on radiography, CT Scan, and MRI images related to various conditions commonly seen in physical therapy. This course will also explore important issues related to reimbursement and the importance of research and evidence-based practice. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Identify implications of pharmacology on the physical therapy client.
Discuss health care reform and its potential impact in physical therapy.
Review the Medicare and insurance requirements/guidelines on supervision and reimbursement in different types of health care facilities.
Formulate an enhanced working vocabulary of diagnostic and musculoskeletal imaging terminology to communicate with other medical professionals using the language of diagnostic imaging.
Identify different types of diagnostic and musculoskeletal imaging commonly used in physical therapy.
Understand the terminology and the research methods that underlie evidence based practice.
Utilize physical therapy case studies, and apply knowledge and concepts in practice.