Primary care physical therapy: 2025 consensus definition

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Primary Care Medicine
• Healthcare Practice

Background:

• The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has addressed the role of physical therapists in primary care for decades.
• A recent motion recognized primary care physical therapy (PCPT) as a specialty and residency practice area.
• Frequent inquiries about the definition of PCPT highlighted a need for clarity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a consensus definition for primary care physical therapy (PCPT).
• To provide a standardized definition for consistent language and knowledge translation in this evolving practice area.

Main Methods:

• Consensus-building process to define primary care physical therapy (PCPT).
• Involved stakeholders within the APTA Federal Primary Care Special Interest Group (PC-SIG).

Main Results:

• A consensus definition for primary care physical therapy (PCPT) was developed.
• This definition aims to standardize understanding and application of PCPT.

Conclusions:

• Establishing a consensus definition is crucial for the development and consistency of primary care physical therapy (PCPT).
• The defined PCPT will aid in knowledge translation and professional alignment.