Physical Therapists have a definite role as primary care pratitioners especially in family practice settings, where 70-80% of patient visits are musculoskeletal diagnoses. This Certification is for the Physical Therapist currently working in a primary care role or is interested in moving into the primay care field.

The following seminars are offered nationwide. Register with the University of St. Augustine for seminars with the contact source being USA.

Occupational therapists may take the seminars indicated, however a certification in primary care can only be granted to physical therapists.

Primary Care Certification (PCC) Seminars

S1-Introduction to Spinal Evaluation and Manipulation (MT 9201)

This is a 5-day seminar emphasizing interpretation of basic science knowledge toward the development of clinical skills needed for differential evaluation & effective treatment of spinal dysfunction. General principles of functional anatomy, tissue & joint biomechanics, pathology and treatments are applied to clinical examination and treatment. Includes instruction & techniques of evaluating structure, active movements and palpation for condition, position & mobility of the spine. Manipulation techniques are instructed at all levels of the spine except the subcranial area. Supportive treatments, such as exercises & distraction, are instructed and practiced to a limited degree. At the conclusion of the seminar, the student should feel confident to examine & treat most common spinal conditions.

E1-Extremity Evaluation and Manipulation (MT 9210)

This seminar emphasizes the interpretation of basic science knowledge & the development of basic clinical skills which are needed to complete a differential evaluation of extremity dysfunction, then proceeds to treatment. General principles of functional anatomy, tissue & joint biomechanics, pathology, and treatment are presented.

The clinical content of the seminar includes physical examination, with special emphasis on performance of joint mobility and assessment of end-feel. Non-thrust manipulations are instructed & supportive treatments are discussed.

Medical Diagnostics (MT 6500)

With the advent of direct access and the increasing degree of professional responsibility being assumed by physical therapists, there has developed a need for therapists to be aware of those signs and symptoms more representative of disease than dysfunction. The purpose of this seminar is not to learn diagnosis, but to understand the process and some of the techniques that will help safeguard the patient, improve inter-professional communications, and facilitate appropriate referral. Content includes disorders of the cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, gastrointestinal, urogenital, and reproductive organ systems. Instruction will consist of both lectures and laboratory experiences.

Pharmacology (PT 6501)

Topics will include general concepts of pharmacology as applicable to physical therapy, discussion of the classes of commonly used drugs in patinets that present to physical therapy practices, including: (a) therapeutic efects; (b) side effects; (c) clinical uses; and (d) contraindications. We will also present case examples of drug effect and their impact on physical therapy pratice, and strategies for communications of the therapist's concerns to the physician.

Imaging for Physical Therapy (PT 6505)

This seminar provides a broad radiographic presentation of commonly occurring dysfunctions of the spine, pelvis & extremities. The physician provides an elucidation of the diagnostic considerations and provisions of differential diagnosis, with a special emphasis on functional alterations and the relationship of x-ray and other imaging findings to clinical physical therapy.

Managed Care - Success & Survival (PT 6304)

This seminar examines in detail the business & clinical considerations in forging long term managed care relationships that will be beneficial to all parties. The business portion deals with analyzing the local environment & the practice to determine the readiness for sudden influx of managed care.

Primary Care Certification (PT 6900)

Review of seminar material from all prerequisite courses in both didactic and lab settings. Culminates in oral, practical and written exams.

Clinical Triage (PHT 6402 or 6802)

This course is a requirement for DPT and MHSc students in the Primary Care Certification Tract. This course offers a 40-hour experience to develop screening and management skills for the neuro-musculoskeletal patient in a primary care setting. This is an opportunity for physical therapists to shadow the health care practitioner while observing the integration of history and physicals, lab results, radiographs, and medications in the typical primary care practice. This course is not a prerequiste for Primary Care Certification.