Physical therapists in the U.S. reentering practice: Considerations for regulators and educators about the effects of disuse on performance

Abstract

Limited empirical evidence exists to describe and classify the effects of professional inactivity on the competence of physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) who may return to practice after extended absences from patient care. This article presents results of the first empirical study concerning the nature of PT and PTA critical work activities (CWAs) and of the impact of disuse on competence in these CWAs for providers. Some areas of practice were judged by subject-matter experts to be more significantly impacted by disuse relative to others. Moreover, some areas of practice were judged to be returned to minimal competence within short amounts of time while other areas were judged to require more time. The results justify regulatory interventions and re- or continuing education for PTs and PTAs seeking to return to clinical practice after significant periods of inactivity.