Physical therapy competencies in rheumatology.

Physical therapists and rheumatologists in the United States were surveyed to determine what they perceived as the necessary competencies in rheumatology for the entry-level physical therapist. Physical therapists in clinical education programs (n = 100), those who belonged to the Arthritis Health Professionals Association (n = 108), and rheumatologists belonging to the American Rheumatism Association (n = 80) responded to a questionnaire consisting of items related to educational variables of interest, professional experience, and 80 competencies. The respondents determined that 35 competencies were absolutely essential, 39 were frequently essential, and 6 were useful but not essential. Identification of these competencies should assist the faculty in physical therapy educational programs to prepare the entry-level physical therapist to be competent to treat arthritis patients.