DPT 834: Health Policy and Physical Therapy

This course introduces the student to public policymaking in the United States, with an emphasis on current health care policy affecting physical therapy practice specifically and healthcare in general. Students will engage in active learning experiences to develop a working knowledge of public policy and to provide them with skills and resources to be an effective advocate for their patients/clients and the profession. Current state and federal legislative and regulatory issues will be the focus in this course. Students will reflect on and discuss these issues in the context of their current and present clinical experiences in the program. Teaching methodology includes a mix of guided self- directed learning activities and online interactive discussion while on a final full-time internship. Critical thinking skills are emphasized in all activities.