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APTA is the definitive source for standards of ethics and professionalism in the physical therapy profession.

The standards for ethics and professionalism in physical therapy are established by the following APTA policies:

If you believe that a PT or PTA member of APTA has violated the association's ethical standards, you may file a complaint to APTA's Ethics and Judicial Committee.


Recommended Content

Productivity measures should include quality and quantity. Insight from APTA EJC

Aug 15, 2023 / Interview

Recommended Reading for Understanding Ethics in the Profession

Feb 16, 2023 / Article

Tools To Advance Your Professionalism

Sep 1, 2019 / Open Access

Ethical Decision-Making in Physical Therapist Practice

Jan 1, 2022 / Article

Legal Topics of Interest

Aug 1, 2019 / Article


Additional Ethics and Professionalism Content

2023 John H.P. Maley Lecture

Aug 11, 2023 / Article

Discover the pressing need for translating research findings into practical clinical applications within the field of physical therapy.

Maley Lecturer Calls for More Clinician Scientists in Physical Therapy

Aug 1, 2023 / News

Stacey Dusing, PT, PhD, FAPTA, believes it's time to close the gaps between research and practice.

53rd Mary McMillan Lecture

May 25, 2023 / Article

The COVID-19 pandemic posed ethical challenges to the physical therapy profession.

Seminal APTA Guide to PT Practice Gets an Update

Apr 12, 2023 / News

The physical therapy profession has evolved, and so has its foundational resource.

President Herr's 2022 House of Delegates Address

Aug 14, 2022 / Article

Watch the 2022 annual address on the importance of foresight in the physical therapy profession.

When Professional and Personal Life Intersect

May 1, 2022 / Column

On occasion, the lines blur and we may step outside of our professional scope with potential consequences.

Professional Decision Making on the Line

Feb 1, 2022 / Column

Every practice setting has its challenges and special circumstances, but they all share professional expectations and responsibilities.

You Can't Be in Two Places at Once

Nov 1, 2021 / Column

We all try to balance our work and personal lives, but some situations can create ethical risk factors that might result in poor decisions.

Core Values for the Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant

Sep 21, 2021 / Policies & Bylaws

House position: Outlines how the core values guide the behavior of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to provide the highest quality of physical therapy services.

2021 John H.P. Maley Lecture

Sep 11, 2021 / Article

Drugs contribute to falls, mortality, and obesity. That is why as a clinician it is important to help patients model healthy behaviors.