Provision of school-based physical therapy services: a survey of current practice patterns

To compare current patterns of school system practice with "best practice" recommendations in the literature. Additional variables examined were the effects of perceived barriers to inclusion, years of practice, and rural location.

A survey was developed, and a link was e-mailed to members of the APTA's Section on Pediatrics members of the School-Based Special Interest Group, and to personal contacts of the researchers.

A total of 226 clinicians responded to more than 50% of survey questions. Respondents reported they practiced inclusively and integrated/inclusive practice patterns were beneficial, yet a high incidence of "private therapy room" use was reported. Wide variability was noted in use of standardized assessments as well as inconsistencies in clinician definition of inclusive/integrated services.

Further research is needed to examine aide/teacher training; clinicians' understanding of "inclusion"; as well as practice patterns versus years of experience, rural versus urban/suburban districts; and private therapy room use.