PA vs. PT: A Comprehensive Guide to Physical Assistant and Physical Therapist Roles
Physical assistants (PAs) and physical therapists (PTs) are both healthcare professionals who play vital roles in improving the mobility, function, and well-being of their patients. However, there are key differences between these two professions, including their education, training, and scope of practice.
Education and Training
Physical Assistants (PAs)
- Typically hold a Master’s degree in Physical Assistant Studies
- Complete a 2-year graduate program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Must pass the National Physical Assistant Examination (NPTE)
Physical Therapists (PTs)
- Hold a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) or a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy (MPT)
- Complete a 3- or 4-year graduate program accredited by CAPTE
- Must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
Scope of Practice
Physical Assistants (PAs)
- Work under the supervision of a physical therapist or physician
- Perform tasks such as:
- Assessment and evaluation of patients’ physical impairments
- Development and implementation of treatment plans
- Provision of therapeutic interventions, including exercise, massage, and electrotherapy
- Education and counseling of patients
Physical Therapists (PTs)
- Have independent practice authority in most states
- Can perform all tasks that PAs can do, plus:
- Diagnosis of physical impairments
- Prescription of medical devices, such as braces or crutches
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRIs
Salary and Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical assistants was $112,530 in May 2022. The median annual salary for physical therapists was $95,620.
Both PAs and PTs are expected to see excellent job growth in the coming years. The BLS projects that the employment of PAs will grow by 31% between 2021 and 2031, while the employment of PTs is expected to grow by 18%.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When choosing between a PA and a PT, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Do not confuse PA with MD. PAs are not physicians. They are not licensed to prescribe medication or perform surgery.
- Do not expect a PT to diagnose your condition. PTs can only diagnose physical impairments. If you need a diagnosis, you need to see a physician.
- Do not think that a PA is less qualified than a PT. PAs are highly trained and qualified healthcare professionals. They are capable of providing high-quality care under the supervision of a physician or PT.
How to Choose the Right Professional for You
The best way to choose the right healthcare professional for you is to talk to both a PA and a PT. Explain your symptoms and goals, and see which one you feel more comfortable with.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a PA and a PT?
PAs are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a physician or PT. They perform tasks such as assessment, treatment, and education. PTs have independent practice authority and can perform all tasks that PAs can do, plus diagnosis and prescription of medical devices.
2. Which one is right for me?
The best way to choose between a PA and a PT is to talk to both of them and see which one you feel more comfortable with.
3. How much do PAs and PTs make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physical assistants was $112,530 in May 2022. The median annual salary for physical therapists was $95,620.
4. What is the job outlook for PAs and PTs?
Both PAs and PTs are expected to see excellent job growth in the coming years. The BLS projects that the employment of PAs will grow by 31% between 2021 and 2031, while the employment of PTs is expected to grow by 18%.
5. What are some of the best ways to use PAs and PTs together?
PAs and PTs can work together in a variety of ways to provide comprehensive care to patients. For example, PAs can provide assessment and treatment under the supervision of a PT, while PTs can focus on diagnosis and prescription of medical devices. This team approach can help to improve patient outcomes and reduce costs.
Tables
Table 1: Education and Training
| Profession | Degree | Program Length | Accreditation | Examination |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Assistant | Master’s degree in Physical Assistant Studies | 2 years | Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) | National Physical Assistant Examination (NPTE) |
| Physical Therapist | Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) or Master’s degree in Physical Therapy (MPT) | 3 or 4 years | CAPTE | NPTE |
Table 2: Scope of Practice
| Profession | Supervision | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Assistant | Yes, by a physical therapist or physician | Assessment, treatment, education |
| Physical Therapist | No | Diagnosis, prescription of medical devices, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, assessment, treatment, education |
Table 3: Salary and Employment Outlook
| Profession | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) | Projected Job Growth (2021-2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Assistant | $112,530 | 31% |
| Physical Therapist | $95,620 | 18% |
Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Confusing PA with MD | PAs are not physicians. They are not licensed to prescribe medication or perform surgery. |
| Expecting a PT to diagnose your condition | PTs can only diagnose physical impairments. If you need a diagnosis, you need to see a physician. |
| Thinking that a PA is less qualified than a PT | PAs are highly trained and qualified healthcare professionals. They are capable of providing high-quality care under the supervision of a physician or PT. |
