Health service developments: their impact on regulation and functions of rehabilitation personnel.

The boundaries and responsibilities of rehabilitation personnel are defined by direct regulation of personnel through licensure and certification and by indirect regulation through the system in which the health professions work. New regulatory measures governing health personnel in the United States and other countries indicate a trend towards innovative roles and increased autonomy for rehabilitation therapists. Current developments in the American health care system will have important impacts on the functions, education, and credentialing of members of the rehabilitation team.