On The DPT

To the Editor: After reading your April and May Editor's Notes and dozens of articles about the professional doctorate in physical therapy (DPT), I have reached a conclusion (and all of my professional colleagues with whom I have discussed the issue with agree): All physical therapists should be recognized as doctors of physical therapy.Why? Because when all physical therapists are recognized as doctors of physical therapy, our profession will once again be regarded with respect! We will evolve from ancillary caregivers to primary caregivers. We will be able to compete on even ground with chiropractors, physicians, and other health care practitioners who currently threaten the livelihood of our profession. Isn't it interesting that a massage therapist can hang out a shingle and treat patients without a referral, but physical therapists cannot (even with a master's degree or a PhD)?…[ ARTICLE][1][ ARTICLE][2] [1]: /lookup/volpage/78/358?iss=4 [2]: /lookup/volpage/78/454?iss=5