Updated competencies for physical therapists working in schools.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Physical Therapy
• Educational Therapy
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• The 1987 competencies for school physical therapists are outdated.
• Current practice, legislation, and terminology necessitate an update.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise and update the 1987 competencies for physical therapists in schools.
• To align competencies with contemporary professional practice, legal frameworks, and terminology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing competencies for school-based professionals.
• Focus groups with school physical therapists to identify roles, responsibilities, and essential skills.
• Integration of feedback and expert review for final competency listing.

Main Results:

• Identification of nine key content areas with specific competencies for school physical therapists.
• The updated competencies signify an expanded scope of practice for therapists in educational settings.

Conclusions:

• School-based physical therapists need specialized knowledge and skills to effectively support students with disabilities.
• These updated competencies serve as a crucial guide for ongoing professional development.