Competency revalidation study: a description of advanced clinical practice in sports physical therapy

Abstract

The first board-certified sports clinical specialists (SCSs) obtained their specialty credentials in 1986. A history of the development process is provided. The Sports Specialty Council and American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties are responsible for maintaining currency in the examination. Therefore, a review of current practice standards was conducted in 1992. The purpose of this article is to present an overview of the methodology and results of the survey. Complete details are found in the document entitled "Description of Advanced Clinical Practice: Sports Physical Therapy" (DACP), which is available through the Sports Physical Therapy Section. A random sample of 2,000 members of the Sports Physical Therapy Section and all clinical specialists certified at the time (N = 49) were surveyed. A total of 507 members (25.3%) and 49 SCSs (100%) returned the questionnaire. The domain of knowledge required by the SCS was divided into nine different areas, with multiple competency statements in each area. Respondents rated each competency statement on three scales: importance, entry-level preparation, and frequency of use. A panel of content area experts then reviewed the results to develop the final competencies and examination blueprint. These competency statements will form the basis of the SCS examination and be implemented in 1995. Competency and examination revision is a constantly evolving process, and this document should serve as a guide for further revisions.