Our association consists of professional Physical Therapists managing the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, integumentary and cardiopulmonary rehabilitative needs of patients resulting from the treatment of active cancer disease. This encompasses acute secondary sequela of cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy; long-term secondary sequela of said treatments and palliative care.
Our Mission & Vision
Academy Mission | Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy of APTA advances physical therapist practice to maximize the lifelong health, well-being and function of persons affected by cancer and HIV.
Academy Vision | The Oncology Academy envisions a society where:
- Physical therapists are recognized as practitioners of choice in cancer and HIV rehabilitation.
- Patients have unencumbered access to physical therapist services.
- An abundance of rigorous research informs clinical practice.
- Entry-level practitioners possess a foundational knowledge of oncology rehabilitation.
- Physical therapists are valued as integral partners of the inter-professional oncologic team.
- Culturally diverse physical therapists in cancer and HIV rehabilitation meet the needs of patients in a culturally affirming manner.
- Board-certified physical therapists expand the body of knowledge and advance oncologic practice.
- The Section collaborates with inter-professional coalitions to advance best practice in cancer and HIV rehabilitation throughout the lifespan.
Academy Objectives
To create a forum for persons whose skills and knowledge concerning oncology physical therapy can be enhanced for mutual benefit to society and the profession of physical therapy through:
- Development and improvement of physical therapy education and practice
- Identification, coordinated action, communication, and fellowship to meet the needs of its members.
The functions of the Academy shall be to:
- Provide a forum for exchange of knowledge, ideas, and skills pertaining to the practice of physical therapy in all levels of cancer care.
- Improve oncology patient care by increasing public awareness of the contribution of physical therapy in the care of the patient with cancer and his/her family.
- Provide the Association, physical therapy programs, and the community guidance concerning the involvement of physical therapy in oncological services.
- Promote physical therapist, physician, and other health care professional interest in the positive aspect of oncology rehabilitation.
- Promote the concepts of optimal quality of life through quality of care for those patients with terminal disease.
- Encourage research, promote the development of new knowledge, and foster contributions to the professional literature.
- Conduct programs devoted to oncology issues of interest to members of the Association.
- Provide such services as will further the objectives of the Section.
