Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 As a point of clarification, you can certainly use initials such as DPT or MSPT, but they must follow the designation of PT. The reason is fairly simple. It's entirely possible to obtain a degree such as DPT or MSPT without becoming licensed to practice. The degree qualifies you to sit for licensure, but does not allow you to practice in and of itself. The designation " PT " indicates that you are a licensed PT who is able to practice in your state. A. Lee, PT, MSPT Director of Inpatient Therapies Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Lincoln, NE Re: DPT Title > > > > > > > > et al > > Many of these questions are addressed in the " frequently asked > > questions " education section of the APTA's website, ie what is the > > difference between an entry level DPT, transitional DPT and an > > advanced clinical science DPT?, Why do some Clinicians object to the DPT degree? > > Also the June 1999 issue of Physical Therapy-Volume 79 number 6 > > " The Clinical Doctorate: A Framework for Analysis in Physical > > Therapist Education " has a significant amount of information. Those > > that are in the Education Section of the APTA also have access to several other articles relating to this topic. > > > > Interesting discussion > > > > Newton, PT, OCS, CWS > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 As a point of clarification, you can certainly use initials such as DPT or MSPT, but they must follow the designation of PT. The reason is fairly simple. It's entirely possible to obtain a degree such as DPT or MSPT without becoming licensed to practice. The degree qualifies you to sit for licensure, but does not allow you to practice in and of itself. The designation " PT " indicates that you are a licensed PT who is able to practice in your state. A. Lee, PT, MSPT Director of Inpatient Therapies Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Lincoln, NE Re: DPT Title > > > > > > > > et al > > Many of these questions are addressed in the " frequently asked > > questions " education section of the APTA's website, ie what is the > > difference between an entry level DPT, transitional DPT and an > > advanced clinical science DPT?, Why do some Clinicians object to the DPT degree? > > Also the June 1999 issue of Physical Therapy-Volume 79 number 6 > > " The Clinical Doctorate: A Framework for Analysis in Physical > > Therapist Education " has a significant amount of information. Those > > that are in the Education Section of the APTA also have access to several other articles relating to this topic. > > > > Interesting discussion > > > > Newton, PT, OCS, CWS > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 Ok, I'll be more direct then. What is the purpose of including the designation of MSPT or DPT after the legally recognized PT designation? Neither a DPT, a MSPT, nor a BSPT (at present) qualifies a PT to be specialized (such as OCS, GCS, etc. would signify such specialty). If I as a Rehab Manager do not understand what one PT means when he/she includes additional letters after name how can other medical professions and the public be expected to understand? Ford, PT Manager of Rehabilitation Services CareGroup Home Care 44 Trapelo Rd Belmont, MA 02478 rford@... Re: DPT Title > > > > > > > > et al > > Many of these questions are addressed in the " frequently asked > > questions " education section of the APTA's website, ie what is the > > difference between an entry level DPT, transitional DPT and an > > advanced clinical science DPT?, Why do some Clinicians object to the DPT degree? > > Also the June 1999 issue of Physical Therapy-Volume 79 number 6 > > " The Clinical Doctorate: A Framework for Analysis in Physical > > Therapist Education " has a significant amount of information. Those > > that are in the Education Section of the APTA also have access to several other articles relating to this topic. > > > > Interesting discussion > > > > Newton, PT, OCS, CWS > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 Ok, I'll be more direct then. What is the purpose of including the designation of MSPT or DPT after the legally recognized PT designation? Neither a DPT, a MSPT, nor a BSPT (at present) qualifies a PT to be specialized (such as OCS, GCS, etc. would signify such specialty). If I as a Rehab Manager do not understand what one PT means when he/she includes additional letters after name how can other medical professions and the public be expected to understand? Ford, PT Manager of Rehabilitation Services CareGroup Home Care 44 Trapelo Rd Belmont, MA 02478 rford@... Re: DPT Title > > > > > > > > et al > > Many of these questions are addressed in the " frequently asked > > questions " education section of the APTA's website, ie what is the > > difference between an entry level DPT, transitional DPT and an > > advanced clinical science DPT?, Why do some Clinicians object to the DPT degree? > > Also the June 1999 issue of Physical Therapy-Volume 79 number 6 > > " The Clinical Doctorate: A Framework for Analysis in Physical > > Therapist Education " has a significant amount of information. Those > > that are in the Education Section of the APTA also have access to several other articles relating to this topic. > > > > Interesting discussion > > > > Newton, PT, OCS, CWS > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 Ok, I'll be more direct then. What is the purpose of including the designation of MSPT or DPT after the legally recognized PT designation? Neither a DPT, a MSPT, nor a BSPT (at present) qualifies a PT to be specialized (such as OCS, GCS, etc. would signify such specialty). If I as a Rehab Manager do not understand what one PT means when he/she includes additional letters after name how can other medical professions and the public be expected to understand? Ford, PT Manager of Rehabilitation Services CareGroup Home Care 44 Trapelo Rd Belmont, MA 02478 rford@... Re: DPT Title > > > > > > > > et al > > Many of these questions are addressed in the " frequently asked > > questions " education section of the APTA's website, ie what is the > > difference between an entry level DPT, transitional DPT and an > > advanced clinical science DPT?, Why do some Clinicians object to the DPT degree? > > Also the June 1999 issue of Physical Therapy-Volume 79 number 6 > > " The Clinical Doctorate: A Framework for Analysis in Physical > > Therapist Education " has a significant amount of information. Those > > that are in the Education Section of the APTA also have access to several other articles relating to this topic. > > > > Interesting discussion > > > > Newton, PT, OCS, CWS > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a point. Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date board certification. Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a choice. So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is clearly counter-productive. For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will be exciting to follow. Peace - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC Physical Therapist > > I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. > > Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I am all in favor for that. > > It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . > > Zerr, PT > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a point. Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date board certification. Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a choice. So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is clearly counter-productive. For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will be exciting to follow. Peace - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC Physical Therapist > > I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. > > Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I am all in favor for that. > > It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . > > Zerr, PT > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 Gee, I wonder why this discussion is so contentious: " Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? " Dr. Simonetti, no I do not feel inferior. Does have a DPT make one feel superior? (I guess I should add all my extra letters to my name) Ford, PT Manager of Rehabilitation Services CareGroup Home Care 44 Trapelo Rd Belmont, MA 02478 rford@... Re: DPT Title I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a point. Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date board certification. Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a choice. So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is clearly counter-productive. For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will be exciting to follow. Peace - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC Physical Therapist > > I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. > > Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I am all in favor for that. > > It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . > > Zerr, PT > Looking to start your own Practice? Visit www.InHomeRehab.com. Bring PTManager to your organization or State Association with a professional workshop or course - call us at 313 884-8920 to arrange PTManager encourages participation in your professional association. Join and participate now! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 15, 2005 Report Share Posted February 15, 2005 Gee, I wonder why this discussion is so contentious: " Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? " Dr. Simonetti, no I do not feel inferior. Does have a DPT make one feel superior? (I guess I should add all my extra letters to my name) Ford, PT Manager of Rehabilitation Services CareGroup Home Care 44 Trapelo Rd Belmont, MA 02478 rford@... Re: DPT Title I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a point. Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date board certification. Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a choice. So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is clearly counter-productive. For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will be exciting to follow. Peace - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC Physical Therapist > > I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. > > Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I am all in favor for that. > > It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . > > Zerr, PT > Looking to start your own Practice? Visit www.InHomeRehab.com. Bring PTManager to your organization or State Association with a professional workshop or course - call us at 313 884-8920 to arrange PTManager encourages participation in your professional association. Join and participate now! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 16, 2005 Report Share Posted February 16, 2005 It has been very interesting to me to follow the intense discussion that was generated by a simple question regarding the appropriateness of addressing a PT with a DPT as " Dr... " Obviously this strikes a nerve with many people out there. I agree with that it is an individual choice both to pursue the additional education (for the transitional degree) and for how the extra letters, title is used thereafter. In strict terms of legality and what the APTA has endorsed, it is quite acceptable to both introduce yourself as " Dr. " and to have the additional letters following PT. That should be the simple answer to a simple question. So why such an emotional response and even outrage from so many respondants? I started my transitional DPT after being out of school for 6 years. It took me another 2 years to complete while working full time, involved a lot of late nights, weekends, hard work, was expensive, etc... and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Does it make me a better clinician than I was before? Yes! Does it make me a better clinician that someone who does not have a DPT? No! I am better than some, not as good as others - just like I was prior to pursuing the degree. The point is, that it doesn't end with having the DPT after your name - just like it doesn't end the moment you pass your boards! As we all know, we have to keep learning and pushing ourselves each and every day to become better clinicians, to seek out the best practices to help our patients, to contribute to making our profession better and stronger. However we choose to do that is an individual choice. I happened to choose the transitional DPT route and I will wear my letters proudly - I earned them. On the issue of " Dr... " I do not introduce myself as " Dr. -Wong. " Many of my patients have asked me about the DPT on my nametag, and not one of them has expressed any confusion when I explain the process by how it got there. They in no way confuse me with a medical doctor, so perhaps the issue is not as confusing to the public as some would suggest? It does bother me that the replies on this listserve have contained so little respect for one another. If we are this divided in our profession, how can we expect to gain the respect of the greater medical community? Respectfully, -Wong, PT, DPT Re: DPT Title > > > > > > I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. > > I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember > the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered > last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a > clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name > would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a > DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a > point. > > Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the > letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't > use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE > to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some > that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make > sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff > test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional > issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. > > Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the > right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray > themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, > after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a > certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while > others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this > alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date > board certification. > > Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one > reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as > to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be > that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase > from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with > a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that > all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in > the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a > choice. > > So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I > always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and > grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is > clearly counter-productive. > > For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice > you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, > for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us > correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will > be exciting to follow. > > Peace > - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC > Physical Therapist > > > > >> >> I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. > Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, > which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their > would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. >> >> Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately > for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared > academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a > much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I > am all in favor for that. >> >> It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are > termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . >> >> Zerr, PT >> > > > > > > > > > Looking to start your own Practice? > Visit www.InHomeRehab.com. > Bring PTManager to your organization or State Association with a > professional workshop or course - call us at 313 884-8920 to arrange > PTManager encourages participation in your professional association. Join > and participate now! > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 16, 2005 Report Share Posted February 16, 2005 It has been very interesting to me to follow the intense discussion that was generated by a simple question regarding the appropriateness of addressing a PT with a DPT as " Dr... " Obviously this strikes a nerve with many people out there. I agree with that it is an individual choice both to pursue the additional education (for the transitional degree) and for how the extra letters, title is used thereafter. In strict terms of legality and what the APTA has endorsed, it is quite acceptable to both introduce yourself as " Dr. " and to have the additional letters following PT. That should be the simple answer to a simple question. So why such an emotional response and even outrage from so many respondants? I started my transitional DPT after being out of school for 6 years. It took me another 2 years to complete while working full time, involved a lot of late nights, weekends, hard work, was expensive, etc... and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Does it make me a better clinician than I was before? Yes! Does it make me a better clinician that someone who does not have a DPT? No! I am better than some, not as good as others - just like I was prior to pursuing the degree. The point is, that it doesn't end with having the DPT after your name - just like it doesn't end the moment you pass your boards! As we all know, we have to keep learning and pushing ourselves each and every day to become better clinicians, to seek out the best practices to help our patients, to contribute to making our profession better and stronger. However we choose to do that is an individual choice. I happened to choose the transitional DPT route and I will wear my letters proudly - I earned them. On the issue of " Dr... " I do not introduce myself as " Dr. -Wong. " Many of my patients have asked me about the DPT on my nametag, and not one of them has expressed any confusion when I explain the process by how it got there. They in no way confuse me with a medical doctor, so perhaps the issue is not as confusing to the public as some would suggest? It does bother me that the replies on this listserve have contained so little respect for one another. If we are this divided in our profession, how can we expect to gain the respect of the greater medical community? Respectfully, -Wong, PT, DPT Re: DPT Title > > > > > > I suppose I am such a 'DPT'er'. > > I use the initials PT, DPT after my name. Occaisionally, I remember > the initials MTC, which follow the DPT, completing the 9 lettered > last name, Simonetti, with 8 more PT, DPT, MTC. I hope to add a > clinical specialy, which would mean that my initials after my name > would then dwarf my 9 letter last name. So would that make me a > DPT'er, MTC'er, and a xCS'er? Maybe so, but I am digressing from a > point. > > Internally, that is, in your clinic or in your own pratice, use the > letters however you choose to do so. If you dont have a DPT, don't > use the letters. However, do not DENY another the right to CHOOSE > to do so, unless you have valid internal reasons. They include some > that have been listed, like confusion and differentiation. Just make > sure these explanations have validity, make sense, and pass the sniff > test. Far too many view the anti-DPT sentiment as an emotional > issue, not one based on anything observable and recorded. > > Externally, however, our individual professionals ought to have the > right to choose how they market themselves and how they portray > themselves to the public. Thsoe without DPTs may feel inferior, > after all, would a patient choose a PT with a BS (or, dare I say, a > certificate) over one with an earned Doctorate? Some might, while > others would choose the crafty veteran who pre-dated all of this > alphabet soup, in the same way that a few older physicians pre-date > board certification. > > Some PTs, myself included, believe that the DPT is helpful for one > reason or another. Those reasons might be something grand, such as > to elevate the status of our profession. Others might simply be > that, with a higher earned degree, they might merit a pay increase > from their employer. Another choses the DPT to try and compete with > a DC in a world of direct access. Others are a bit concerned that > all new grads coming out with a DPT might make a credible splash in > the pool. Others are simply new grads who did not truly have a > choice. > > So do not let the issue 'internally' affect your outward belief. I > always thought of the DPT opponents as able to be classified and > grouped together, akin to your labelling 'us' as DPTers. This is > clearly counter-productive. > > For those who have not gotten a DPT, you have made a choice, a choice > you will live with. And I sincerely hope you made the right coice, > for you. I believe my choice was right. Time will prove one of us > correct. This debate should re-emerge often over the years and will > be exciting to follow. > > Peace > - Simonetti, PT, DPT, MTC > Physical Therapist > > > > >> >> I believe much of the objection comes from a legal standpoint. > Many of the DPTers want to be able to have DPT after their signature, > which the practice acts don't allow. If that was to be allowed their > would be a two tier professional aknowledgement i.e. PT and DPT. >> >> Also many DPTers want to be referred to as Doctors. Unfortunately > for the APTA and educators these students may be prepared > academically for that designation, but not clinically. Doctors do a > much more extensive rotation as med students and then a residency. I > am all in favor for that. >> >> It's also hard to believe PT's can be called Doctors when we are > termed " ancillary services " in the Stark law under " incident to " . >> >> Zerr, PT >> > > > > > > > > > Looking to start your own Practice? > Visit www.InHomeRehab.com. > Bring PTManager to your organization or State Association with a > professional workshop or course - call us at 313 884-8920 to arrange > PTManager encourages participation in your professional association. Join > and participate now! > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 16, 2005 Report Share Posted February 16, 2005 , I congratulate you on EARNING your DPT. If all the initials after your name start to dwarf your name, amybe you just need a longer last name. I do have a question as to why one would use both PT and DPT. That seems redundant unless ,you want one to designate your academic degree, and the other to show you are licensed. All I have to say is if you've earned a designation, you should not be limited from using it to distinguish yourself. You go man! J. Aube, PT,OCS Rehab Professionals of Cleveland, Inc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 16, 2005 Report Share Posted February 16, 2005 , I congratulate you on EARNING your DPT. If all the initials after your name start to dwarf your name, amybe you just need a longer last name. I do have a question as to why one would use both PT and DPT. That seems redundant unless ,you want one to designate your academic degree, and the other to show you are licensed. All I have to say is if you've earned a designation, you should not be limited from using it to distinguish yourself. You go man! J. Aube, PT,OCS Rehab Professionals of Cleveland, Inc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.