When a PTA Crosses Scope of Practice: An Ethics Case Every PT Should Hear

What should a clinician do when they discover an ethical breach in the clinic?

In this episode, members of the AAOMPT Ethics Committee walk through a realistic clinical scenario involving a physical therapy fellow who discovers a physical therapist assistant performing manipulation techniques outside their scope of practice.

When the fellow raises the concern with the clinical director, the issue is dismissed—creating tension, professional risk, and uncertainty for a student observing the situation.

This conversation explores the ethical principles that guide clinical decision-making and the leadership responsibilities that often come with fellowship training.

The panel discusses how clinicians can navigate difficult ethical situations while protecting patients, maintaining professional integrity, and supporting colleagues.

In This Episode

• Ethical responsibilities of physical therapy fellows

• Scope of practice considerations for PTAs

• Patient expectations vs professional standards

• The role of accountability and integrity in clinical practice

• Leadership development through fellowship training

• How students and clinicians can report ethical concerns

• Why ethical issues in healthcare are often underreported