Is the graduate of a professional (entry-level) DPT program more competent than the graduate of a professional (entry-level) BSPT or MPT program?
Some APTA members believe that this may be the case because of the augmented didactic component and the extended, more mentored clinical education experience. However, there are insufficient data to demonstrate any correlation between the DPT and higher levels of clinical competence or improved treatment outcomes. Moreover, it would appear that there are no major economic advantages to the DPT. In the absence of compelling data, perhaps the more important question for any physical therapist should be: “How can the physical therapy profession position itself to accommodate the changing expectations for practice and the changing health care environment in a future that is entirely uncertain?” The answer for some physical therapists will include acquiring a “transition” DPT; for others, the DPT will not offer sufficient benefit.
Related Questions
- Does a professional (entry-level) DPT program prepare a graduate to contribute to the professions body of knowledge and/or to clinical research in support of evidence-based practice?
- Is the graduate of a professional (entry-level) DPT program more competent than the graduate of a professional (entry-level) BSPT or MPT program?
- What is the difference between a professional (entry-level) DPT program and a professional (entry-level) MPT program?
