Transforming Physical Therapy: APTA's Vision for 2020 and Beyond

AMERICAN PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION (APTA)

About Us
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is a national professional organization representing more than 74,000 members. Its goal is to foster advancements in physical therapy practice, research, and education.

Goals
These goals are based upon the American Physical Therapy Association Vision Statement for Physical Therapy 2020 (Vision 2020) developed by the Association in 2000. The goals encompass the Association's major priorities as it moves toward realization of the ideals set forth in Vision 2020. The Board is committed to these goals as the foundation from which to lead the Association.

Mission Statement 
The mission of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), the principal membership organization representing and promoting the profession of physical therapy, is to further the profession's role in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of movement dysfunctions and the enhancement of the physical health and functional abilities of members of the public.

Policies & Bylaws 
APTA's Policies & Bylaws page includes positions, standards, guidelines, policies, and procedures of both the Board of Directors and House of Delegates.

Vision Sentence 
By 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists who are doctors of physical therapy, recognized by consumers and other health care professionals as the practitioners of choice to whom consumers have direct access for the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities related to movement, function, and health.

Vision Statement 
Physical therapy, by 2020, will be provided by physical therapists who are doctors of physical therapy and who may be board-certified specialists. Consumers will have direct access to physical therapists in all environments for patient/client management, prevention, and wellness services. Physical therapists will be practitioners of choice in patients'/clients' health networks and will hold all privileges of autonomous practice.