FAQ

I am a physical therapist who has received part of their academic training for acupuncture and would like to practice the skills that I have learned so far. What are the college regulations surrounding this issue?

As of September 1, 2003 a physical therapist who is enrolled in but has not completed their training in acupuncture may not practice acupuncture until they have successfully completed the program. For further information, consult Clinical Practice Statement #12 on Acupuncture and Intramuscular Stimulation.

If you have not completed your acupuncture training and testing by September 1, 2003 you must stop using acupuncture on clients until you successfully complete your training and examinations.

For information on upcoming acupuncture or IMS courses please contact:

Medical Acupuncture Program, University of Alberta
Teddy Carter
(p) 780-248-1954
(f) 780-248-5845
e-mail: teddycarter@med.ualberta.ca
www.cpl.ualberta.ca/Home/Events/acupuncture.cfm
Download brochure

AFCI
Cheryll Kwok
(p) 416-752-3988
(f) 416-752-4398
e-mail: info@afcinstitute.com
www.afcinstitute.com

ISTOP
(p) 604-264-7867
(f) 604-264-7860
e-mail: istop@istop.org
www.istop.org

Are physical therapists allowed to use the term diagnose?

It is clear that physical therapists can diagnose according to the College’s Bylaws dealing with minimal treatment standards:

Section 56 (1)(iii):

1. Prior to initiating treatment a registrant must: (iii) attempt to obtain relevant medical information concerning the client by establishing a physical therapy diagnosis.

According to section 56 of the College’s Bylaws and the Health Professions Council the use of the term “physical therapy diagnosis” by a physical therapist is correct. If further information is required you are encouraged to contact the College.

Copyright 1998 - College of Physical Therapists of BC - All rights reserved.