Physical Therapists as Primary Providers in the Emergency Department

Many rehabilitation courses discuss acute care and Emergency Department (ED) consultation models, but few address the evolving role of the Physical Therapist as a primary provider in the ED. This course bridges the gap between traditional rehabilitation training and the demands of Emergency Department primary provider practice by equipping clinicians with structured medical screening frameworks, red flag identification strategies, and rapid functional mobility assessment techniques.

Through case-based learning and evidence-informed decision-making models, participants will gain confidence inperforming focused ED evaluations, interpreting vital signs and laboratory values, and determining appropriatedisposition. Attendees will leave with practical tools and immediately applicable strategies to improve ED throughput, reduce unnecessary imaging and admissions, and enhance patient safety.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants

Highlights

• Clear, evidence-based strategies that can be immediately integrated into Emergency Department practice, including methods for rapid medical screening, functional mobility evaluation, vital sign interpretation, and safe discharge decision-making
• Interactive learning through case-based discussion to strengthen clinical reasoning and confidence in triage,differential diagnosis, and disposition planning.