The Relationship Between Professionalism and Leadership: Parent-Child or Sibling?

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Professional Education
• Healthcare Competencies

Background:

• Professionalism, guided by the American Physical Therapy Association's Core Values, has been central to physical therapy.
• Professional formation in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curricula has implicitly emphasized professionalism, which may not encompass all necessary societal competencies.
• The evolving healthcare landscape necessitates a re-evaluation of core competencies for physical therapists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare and contrast professionalism and leadership as domains of competence in physical therapy.
• To propose recommendations for the professional formation of physical therapists.
• To advocate for the adoption of leadership and professionalism as two distinct domains of competence.

Main Methods:

• This perspective piece analyzes the concepts of professionalism and leadership within physical therapy.
• It reviews existing literature and professional discourse on competencies.
• Recommendations are formulated based on this analysis.

Main Results:

• Professionalism, while foundational, is not broad enough to meet current societal demands.
• Leadership competencies are crucial for physical therapists to add value to the healthcare system.
• A clear distinction between professionalism and leadership as separate domains of competence is proposed.

Conclusions:

• Physical therapists require both professionalism and leadership as distinct competencies for future success.
• Adopting these two domains will enhance the profession's value and societal contribution.
• Educational and clinical practices must adapt to foster both professionalism and leadership in physical therapists.