APTA Viewpoints:Implications for not

abidingLamont Buckley

April 2, 2012PTA 1500

Policies

Policies that are debated and voted upon by the house of delegates are classified into 3 categories and each has a different level of expectation for compliance.

1st - Guidelines

2nd- Positions

3rd- Standards

Guidelines

Guidelines are the least binding. As they are considered a statement of advice.

Not following these have the least ramifications where nothing really happens.

Positions Positions are considered to be a firmly held association stance or point of view that member are expected to follow

The APTA has many documents that describe positions and the differences in responsibilities between the PT and PTA. These positions are not legally binding but they do represent "best practice" as defined by the ATPA. Not following these recommended practice guideline could be used against the practitioner should a law suit be filed.

StandardsStandards have the highest level of expectation for compliance be cause the are a binding statement used to judge quality of action or activity and often pertain to right or wrong conduct.

If violated a individual could face being bared from ATPA membership and legal action action against them.

Example of a APTA standard includes core documents such as the "Standards of Ethical Conduct for Physical Therapy Assistant."

Summary The 3 levels of policies determine the amount of ramifications by not following them.

Lowest level is guidelines and highest is Standards.

Lowest level are just guidelines and nothing really happens if you don't follow them, where are breaking standards can result in being bared from ATPA membership and legal action.

Following all 3 is the best way to practice and cover yourself.