Human resources in physical therapy: opportunities for service in a rapidly changing health system

Abstract

This article illuminates major considerations having an impact on the utilization of human resources in physical therapy. The current and potential impacts of health system forces and trends and health care reform, in general, and scope of practice, team care, supply and demand, and managed care, in particular, are cited and discussed. The manner in which physical therapists perceive and respond to health care needs and access issues and in turn the manner in which the public and policymakers acknowledge physical therapy's growing role in this defining of health and health care are both likely to create new opportunities for service.