Ethical Decision-Making in Physical Therapy |
Principle 7A physical therapist shall seek only such remuneration as is deserved and reasonable for physical therapy services. Physical therapists should carefully study the three parts of Principle 7 since it directly affects the way that the practice of physical therapy is conducted. Most therapists seem to agree with the basic tenet of this principle; that is, never placing the therapist's financial interest above the welfare of the patient. If that is kept as a central ethical guideline, the rest of this principle should seem apparent. It clearly stipulates the manner in which physical therapists should practice regarding their business arrangements, including setting fees and practice arrangements with others. Fees should be reasonable within the limitations of the particular practice as set forth in the Guide. In order to practice within the ethical guidelines of the Code of Ethics, it is advisable to review these stipulated parameters. The second subsection relates to the endorsement of equipment. The patients' interest should always be considered foremost since patients trust physical therapists to make appropriate recommendations about their equipment needs. As long as there is full disclosure regarding any financial interest in a company, it is not considered unethical to have a financial interest in or endorse a specific product company. Finally, if a referring practitioner "derives compensation from the provision of physical therapy," there must be full disclosure, so that the patient understands the financial arrangement of the clinic and retains the right to choose physical therapy provider. The next case includes several ethical issues. How is the patient affected by the therapist's decision? How are we all affected? How do you think that you would respond to the manager? |