Physiotherapy is an essential part of the health and community/welfare services delivery systems. Physical therapists practise independently of other health care/service providers and also collaboratively within interdisciplinary rehabilitation/habilitation programmes that aim to prevent movement disorders or maintain/restore optimal function and quality of life in individuals with movement disorders. Physical therapy is delivered in a variety of settings, which allow it to achieve its purpose.
Prevention, health promotion, treatment/intervention, habilitation and rehabilitation take place in multiple settings that may include, but are not confined to, the following:
- Community based rehabilitation programmes
- Community settings including primary health care centres, individual homes, and field settings
- Education and research centres
- Fitness clubs, health clubs, gymnasia and spas
- Hospices
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Occupational health centres
- Out-patient clinics
- Physical therapist private offices, practices, clinics
- Public settings for health promotion
- Rehabilitation centres and residential homes
- Schools, including pre-schools and special schools
- Senior citizen centres
- Sports centres/clubs
- Workplaces/companies
Reference:
World Confederation for Physical Therapy. Policy statement: Description of physical therapy. 2017