Work Type
Poster
Date
Fall 2018
Faculty Advisor
Holly Roberts, DPT, NCS, GCS
Language
English
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the implications of direct access in a global health setting through the process of medical screening during physical therapy (PT) examinations in rural Guatemala. Six patients (5%) presented with signs and symptoms requiring follow-up medical care or when medical follow-up was unavailable, modification of physical therapy intervention. The role of physical therapists (PTs) in the delivery of health care is expanding. PTs practicing abroad must be prepared for the unique health needs of medically underserved populations. Additionally, as direct access to physical therapy services becomes increasingly common in the United States, clinicians will encounter patients who have not been screened by their primary care doctors for underlying medical conditions. PTs must screen for medical and psychological signs and symptoms to appropriately refer their patients for follow-up care. PTs have the training and skill set to make clinical decisions regarding the appropriate screening and management of patients presenting to PT clinics under direct access.
Publisher
University of Puget Sound
Geographic Coverage
Guatemala, United States
Recommended Citation
Hogue, Coty; Friend, Mercedes; and Roberts, Holly, "Implications of direct access to physical therapy in a global health context" (2018). Physical Therapy Research Symposium. 40.
https://soundideas.pugetsound.edu/ptsymposium/40