Title: Health Care Systems & Documentation
Course: PHT 2931 Trends in Physical Therapy > Section: Module 2

Introduction

Physical therapist assistants operate not only as part of a physical therapy department, but also in the larger framework of a health care system.  In this system, they interact not only with patients, but with managers and other disciplines.  As part of a bigger picture, they will encounter accrediting and regulatory agencies, governmental agencies, insurance agencies, and many others.  The healthcare system in the United States is complex and ever evolving.  The changes that are generated will frequently affect how you treat your patients and how you perform documentation.

As you have noticed, an important part of your job as a PTA is documentation.  Documentation is important not only as a means of communicating with fellow professionals, but also as a means for satisfying Medicare and other insurance payers.  If there is litigation involving a patient, the medical record is the primary source of information about patient care and treatment.

Outcomes

This module covers the following outcomes:

- Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively
- Demonstrate Computer Literacy
- Recognize and respond to emergency situations
- Define Scope of Practice
- Describe basic concepts related to the health care system including multi-disciplinary team approach, quality care, governmental agencies, private sector, role of health care providers, health care facilities, issues and problems
- Demonstrate knowledge of the health care delivery system and health occupations

Objectives

Upon successful completion, the student should be able to:

- Distinguish between academic and clinical differences in a lab setting
- Discuss the laws associated with clinical settings
- Explain the issues pertaining to patient malpractice and safety

Readings and Resources

Pierson’s Principles and Techniques of Patient Care ch.  3

Assignments

- Post and reply to Discussion 2
- Complete Assignment 2
- Post and reply to Discussion 3
- Complete Assignment 3