Physical Therapy Vision Statement

Leadership Essay The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) adopted a vision statement for the Physical Therapy Profession in 2013. The vision of “Transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience” was supported by guiding principles and a strategic plan to aid physical therapists and APTA in achieving this goal. For physical therapists, leadership skills are necessary to promote the profession and contribute to the attainment of this vision. Leadership is both an art and a science that achieves a purpose through envisioning long term goals, promoting change-centered problem resolutions, incorporating strategic plans, and motivating fellow collaborators. Aspects of leadership that a physical therapist needs to promote the APTA vision statement are intelligence, communication skills, and marketing. In order for physical therapists to appropriately optimize movement, they need the intelligence to adequately promote and define the movement system. Exceptional understanding of the movement system is pertinent in identifying impairments, recognizing activity restrictions, providing therapeutic interventions, and appreciating the potential for the human

physical therapists require strong communication skills to advocate for patients and ensure that services are patient-centered and of value to the customer. Professional communication is crucial in co-managing patients among physical therapists, physicians, occupational therapists, and other healthcare providers. Additionally, a physical therapist will need proper communication skills in order to discuss the plan of care with patients and ensure that the patient understands the need for rehabilitation. Lastly, communication is essential in the promotion of physical therapy to the public and marketing how the profession aims to improve the human