30 Questions
What is expected of WCPT member organisations in terms of ethics?
To have a code of ethics or code of conduct, and make it publicly available
What is the purpose of the expanded statements on WCPT's ethical principles?
To support physical therapy organisations in developing their codes of ethics
What is the primary purpose of the examination/assessment undertaken by physical therapists with each patient/client?
To allow the development of a diagnosis
What is the primary focus of Ethical Principle 1?
The respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals
What is WCPT's role in supporting its member organisations?
To provide advice and support to its member organisations
What should a physical therapist do if the diagnosis is not clear or the required intervention/treatment is not within their realm of practice?
Inform the patient/client and facilitate a referral to other professionals
Why should a physical therapist consult with the referring medical practitioner in certain cases?
Because the treatment programme prescribed is not appropriate in the judgement of the physical therapist
What is the purpose of having procedures for monitoring the practice of physical therapists?
To identify and address instances of unethical practice
What is the underlying principle of physical therapists not delegating certain activities to other health professionals or support workers?
To ensure the unique skill, knowledge and judgement of the physical therapist are utilized
When was the Declaration of Principle: Ethical Principles originally adopted?
At the 13th General Meeting of WCPT in 1995
What is the ultimate goal of the physical therapy process?
To achieve the patient's goals or to obtain the maximum possible benefit
What is the fourth ethical principle of physical therapists?
Physical therapists provide honest, competent and accountable professional services
What is a fundamental right of patients/clients according to physical therapists' ethical principles?
To access their physical therapy data and make informed decisions
According to ethical principle 2, what is a right of physical therapists?
To refuse to treat or otherwise intervene when the service is not in the best interests of the patient/client
What is a characteristic of physical therapists as described in ethical principle 3?
They are professionally independent and autonomous practitioners
What is a responsibility of physical therapists according to ethical principle 3?
To exercise sound judgement in the provision of services
What is a principle that guides physical therapists' practice?
Services should be provided regardless of age, gender, race, or other factors
Why might physical therapists advocate for patient/client access to physical therapist services?
When, in their opinion, there is restricted access to those who have the capacity to benefit
What is a key consideration for physical therapists when setting their fee schedules?
Reflecting prevailing market conditions
What is a responsibility of physical therapists in relation to third-party funders?
Ensuring reimbursement reflects good practice
What is a key principle for physical therapists when advertising their services?
Providing accurate information about their services
What is an important aspect of physical therapists' participation in public education programs?
Providing information about the profession
What is the role of the APTA's code of ethics in accountable practice?
To help navigate complex decision-making and highlight the best course of action
What is the primary purpose of maintaining accurate and comprehensive documentation in accountable practice?
To provide a record of the patient's progress and treatment plan adjustments
What is essential for delivering patient-centered care?
Cultural competence and respect
What is a key consideration for physical therapists when dealing with suppliers and manufacturers?
Applying sound business principles
What is a key goal of physical therapists' contribution to service planning and development?
Addressing the health needs of the community
What is the significance of recognizing personal vulnerability in accountable practice?
To take responsibility for maintaining ethical and clinical decision-making
What is the primary goal of accountable practice in healthcare?
To provide the best care based on the latest knowledge and advancements
What is the primary benefit of engaging in professional development and continuing education?
To provide the best care based on the latest knowledge and advancements
Study Notes
Ethical Responsibilities of Physical Therapists
- WCPT expects its member organizations to have a code of ethics or conduct, publish and promote it, and have procedures for monitoring and disciplining members who violate the code.
Ethical Principle 1: Respect for Patients
- Physical therapists respect the rights and dignity of all individuals.
- They undertake appropriate examination/assessment to develop a diagnosis and determine the prognosis/plan of care.
- They inform and discharge patients when goals are achieved or no further benefits can be obtained.
- They refer patients to other professionals if the diagnosis is unclear or treatment is not within their realm.
Ethical Principle 4: Providing Professional Services
- Physical therapists provide honest, competent, and accountable services.
- Everyone has the right to physical therapy services regardless of age, gender, race, etc.
- Patients have the right to:
- High-quality services
- Information about services
- Informed consent
- Confidentiality
- Access to their physical therapy data
- Health education and health promotion services
- Choosing who should be informed on their behalf
Ethical Principle 2: Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- Physical therapists comply with laws and regulations governing their practice in their country.
- They have the right to refuse to treat or intervene when a service is not in the best interests of the patient.
- They have the right to advocate for patient access to physical therapy services when access is restricted.
Ethical Principle 3: Responsibility and Sound Judgement
- Physical therapists are professionally independent and autonomous practitioners.
- They make independent judgments in providing services for which they have knowledge and skills.
- They ensure that:
- Fee schedules are based on prevailing market conditions
- Fees charged offer value for money
- Reimbursement from third-party funders is reflective of good practice
- Influence is not used for personal gain
- Sound business principles are applied when dealing with suppliers
Ethical Principle 7: Accurate Information
- Physical therapists provide accurate information to patients, other agencies, and the community about physical therapy services.
- They participate in public education programs, inform the public and referring professionals truthfully about their services, and may advertise their services.
Additional Ethical Considerations
- Obtaining informed consent is a vital ethical component of accountable practice.
- Effective communication, documentation, and record keeping are essential.
- Cultural competence and respect, continuing education, professionalism, and accountability to oneself are also important ethical considerations.
Test your knowledge of the ethical principles and responsibilities that physical therapists and WCPT members must adhere to. This quiz covers the code of ethics and conduct expected by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy.
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