Primary Care PT: A Philosophy of Care

Presented by Seth Peterson and John Heick

12-Month Subscription

Unlimited access to:

  • Thousands of CE Courses
  • Patient Education
  • Home Exercise Program
  • And more
Video Runtime: 34 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 31 Minutes

As physical therapists’ role in primary care continues to grow, it is necessary to review and expand on the principles underlying that philosophy of care. This course will benefit physical therapists oriented toward primary care by discussing frameworks for their role in the healthcare system, diagnostic thinking, and referral decision-making.

Learning Objectives
  • Determine systems-based practice and its importance to practicing in a primary care role
  • Apply the international framework for potentially serious spinal pathology to determine appropriate action on a patient case
  • Consider the principles of referral decision-making as they apply to a patient case
  • Recommend a type of referral for a relevant patient case

Meet your instructors

Seth Peterson

Seth Peterson is a graduate of A.T. Still University’s orthopedic residency and Bellin College’s fellowship in orthopedic manual physical therapy. He is a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and a fellow of AAOMPT. Seth is a full-time clinician at The Motive, the private practice he owns in Tucson, Arizona. He is…

Read full bio

John Heick

John Heick received his PhD in 2015 from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in orthopaedic and sports science. He received his doctorate from Shenandoah University and his undergraduate degree from Northern Arizona University. John is board-certified by ABPTS in orthopedics, neurology, and sports. John has…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

A Vision for Primary Care PT

1. A Vision for Primary Care PT

This chapter discusses the role of primary care physical therapy and the concept of systems-based practice.

Diagnostic Thinking

2. Diagnostic Thinking

This chapter reviews and expands upon traditional concepts of critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning.

Referral Decision-Making and Care Continuity

3. Referral Decision-Making and Care Continuity

This chapter introduces referral decision-making as a concept within physical therapist practice, including how it relates to continuity of care.