An Historical Investigation of Physical Therapy Services at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Relation to Changes in Educational Preparation of the Physical Therapist, 1921-1981
Evans, Vilma Inez
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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/68870
Description
Title
An Historical Investigation of Physical Therapy Services at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Relation to Changes in Educational Preparation of the Physical Therapist, 1921-1981
Author(s)
Evans, Vilma Inez
Issue Date
1983
Department of Study
Education
Discipline
Education
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
Educat.D.
Degree Level
Dissertation
Keyword(s)
Health Sciences, Education
Abstract
The principal purpose of this study is an historical investigation of the establishment of Physical Therapy services at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Danville, Illinois, since its inception. Emphasis is placed on the factors within the hospital that influenced changes in the educational preparation of the physical therapist.
The Physical Therapy service was established at St. Elizabeth Hospital in 1921 and paralleled the growth and development of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The history unfolds notable forces related to change in the educational preparation of the physical therapist and is described from an internal perspective.
The main topics of discussion in this study include the history of Physical Therapy and St. Elizabeth Hospital, the key people in the process, and the forces exerted in the shaping of the profession.
The format for reporting the study is based upon the results of the study itself. The study is divided into three distinct time frames determined by the credentials of the physical therapists and named according to the developmental sequence in human development. This analogy enabled the historical development process to stand out clearly.
The data for the study were collected from documents and records of the American Physical Therapy Association and of St. Elizabeth Hospital as well as from personal interviews and participant observation. The conclusions are based on the data and a discussion of historical events which showed that many forces led to the successful development of both the profession and the Physical Therapy service at St. Elizabeth.
The outstanding factor recognized from this study is that the competencies required of the qualified physical therapist have broadened considerably. This factor has led to the need for increased knowledge, increased expertise, and a change in the educational preparation of the physical therapist. APTA has already approved a policy change requiring the awarding of a postbaccalaureate degree for entry level preparation.
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