Boundaries within relationships between patients and their physical therapist or physical therapist assistant are important in supporting trust in therapeutic relationships. Clinicians are responsible for establishing, maintaining, and, if necessary, restoring professional boundaries. According to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, a PT or PTA, rather than a patient, is much more likely to cross professional and legal boundaries in clinical relationships. Yet, situations of unwanted attention and inappropriate sexual behaviors from patients occur in physical therapist practice.
By using this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. To find out more visit our privacy policy.
Ethics in Practice: #Boundaries: When Is the Line Being Crossed?
With social media, when does a professional relationship get too personal?
Date: August 1, 2023
Contact: aptamag@apta.org
Content Type: Column
Debra Gorman-Badar, PT, PhD, and Rebecca Edgeworth Ditwiler, PT, DPT
You Might Also Like...
Article
UnitedHealthcare Holds Firm on Prior Authorization Policy Despite APTA AdvocacyOct 11, 2024
Meetings with the insurer yielded disappointing outcomes.
Article
APTA Students Raise $2,000 and Awareness of PTPAC via Flash Action StrategyOct 8, 2024
This year’s PT and PTA student-led social media blitz focused on raising funds and awareness for PTPAC, APTA's political action committee.
Article
Catherine Worthingham Fellow Phil Tygiel Dies at 77Oct 7, 2024
The clinician and advocate fought for direct access in Arizona.