Alabama Physical Therapy Practice Act: Definitions, Scope, and Licensure Structure
Core definitions
The Alabama Physical Therapy Practice Act defines physical therapy as the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of movement dysfunction and physical disability through physical, chemical, and other properties of heat, light, water, electricity, sound, and massage, plus therapeutic exercise and functional training. Candidates must distinguish the physical therapist (PT) - who performs evaluation, diagnosis of movement dysfunction, prognosis, and intervention - from the physical therapist assistant (PTA), who implements the plan of care under supervision, and the aide/technician, who performs non-skilled supportive tasks only.
Scope boundaries
Know which activities are reserved to the PT: initial examination and evaluation, development and modification of the plan of care, and discharge decisions. PTAs may not perform initial evaluations, establish diagnoses, or alter a plan of care. Aides may not perform skilled interventions or apply modalities that require clinical judgment.
Licensure structure
Alabama licenses PTs and PTAs; the Board issues licenses, and practice without a license is unlawful. Understand that licensure is distinct from certification and that the Act grants the Board authority to define fees, renewal cycles, and standards.
Question traps
- Confusing evaluation (PT only) with reevaluation or data collection (PTA may contribute under direction).
- Assuming an aide can apply a modality because a PT "ordered" it - the aide still may not perform skilled procedures.
- Treating the plan of care as modifiable by the PTA.
Rule of thumb
If the task requires clinical judgment, interpretation, or changing the plan, it belongs to the PT; if it executes an established plan, it may belong to the PTA; if it is non-skilled support, it belongs to the aide.