Updated competencies for physical therapists working in early intervention.

PURPOSE

: The purpose of this project was to revisit the 1990 American Physical Therapy Association Section on Pediatrics policy statement and competencies for physical therapists in early intervention and update their content to reflect present practice, legislation, and terminology.

METHODS

: A review of the literature and competencies for early intervention professionals was completed. Surveys of six focus groups of parents of children with disabilities were conducted to ascertain their perspectives of the knowledge and skills important for therapists. This information was integrated into a listing of competencies expected of physical therapists working in early intervention. The competencies were reviewed regionally and nationally by experts in the field and therapists practicing in early intervention.

RESULTS

: Nine content areas with specific competencies were identified in which early intervention physical therapists should have expertise. The primary change in the content between the 1990 and 2005 competencies is the addition of service provision in natural environments.

CONCLUSION

: Physical therapists who work in early intervention require specific skills and knowledge to effectively serve infants, toddlers, and their families. Competencies are useful to guide professional development.