Development and Integration of Professional Core Values Among Practicing Clinicians

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Professional Ethics
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• The physical therapy profession has established core values to guide member conduct.
• A self-assessment tool exists for these values, but evidence on their practical integration is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how physical therapists develop professional core values.
• To understand how these values are integrated into clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative design using semistructured interviews with 20 physical therapists.
• Utilized the Core Values Self-Assessment tool and résumé sort for reflection prompts.

Main Results:

• Personal values form the basis of professional values, influenced by academic and clinical experiences.
• Integrity, compassion/caring, and accountability were well-integrated; social responsibility was not.
• Integration occurred irrespective of practice setting or career path.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the integration of core values can inform patient care and educational strategies.
• Findings may guide curriculum development in entry-level, postprofessional, and continuing education for physical therapists.