Physical Therapy What is school based physical therapy (PT)? School-based physical therapists work with other professionals to assist children with disabilities to access their education. This includes school activities like sitting, standing in line or at the board, moving in class or through the building. All screens, evaluations, consultations, and interventions are performed by physical therapists licensed by the state of North Carolina. Interventions may include adaptations to school environments, working with a student on motor skills, assistance with identifying and getting special equipment, and collaboration with school staff and other professionals. Children, who qualify for medically prescribed or clinical (out patient) physical therapy, may not qualify for school-based services. A child’s eligibility for services is determined by a multidisciplinary team that includes parents, educators, program facilitators, the student and other special service providers. The team gathers information about a child’s functional abilities and physical development relevant to their education. This information comes from a variety of sources including parents or caregivers, direct observation, medical and teacher reports, assessment tools, and information or input from community agencies. Recommendations for education based services, including physical therapy, are made based upon a thorough review of available information. The team uses this data to develop an individual education plan or IEP and to determine the educational need for physical therapy. For more information, please go to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction site link below: Who provides school based physical therapy? Only physical therapists and physical therapist assistants licensed by the state of North Carolina may provide physical therapy in North Carolina schools. How do I contact the physical therapy program? The physical therapy and occupational therapy program office may be reached at 336-370-2314. The physical therapists serving the schools have offices throughout the county and may be contacted directly. |
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