Commentary on “Scope and Practices of Physical Therapists Working With Children: Results From an International Online Survey”

“How should I apply this information?” There are many similarities in the scope of practices of pediatric physical therapists among over 75 different countries, despite the varying levels of education required and autonomy provided to pediatric physical therapists. This provides information that could help pediatric physical therapists from different countries collaborate with one another in a clinical or research setting. Half of the participants reported working with populations other than pediatrics. While this could be due to personal preference, it may be out of necessity due to a lack of physical therapist coverage in their country and/or lack of opportunities to specialize through continued education, board specialization, and residency/fellowship education. Clinicians whose time is split among patient populations may have extra challenges with regard to meeting competencies for best practices. Further investigation into the educational opportunities for pediatric physical therapists in specific countries could contribute to the creation of continuing education programs to help pediatric physical therapists carry out best practices and for children who are receiving physical therapy to obtain the best care possible. From a parent perspective, the information about practices in other countries is interesting, but not necessarily relevant or meaningful to parents. “It doesn't explain the outcome benefits for children they work with. That is the real information parents want. They want science-based PT interventions proven to work.” Perhaps this study's findings could serve as a basis for further investigation of the evidence behind the practices used across countries, ensuring a global shift toward more evidence-based practice. “What should I be mindful about when applying this information?” The information was presented in aggregate, so it is not possible to determine more detail about each specific country represented by respondents. Therefore, this work should be interpreted and applied carefully so as not to make any assumptions regarding an individual country's or region's practice patterns or educational opportunities. Jodi Thomas, DPT, DHSc School of Physical Therapy, Texas Woman's University, Dallas, Texas Rianna Silverstein, DPT Beelieve Pediatric Therapy, Fort Worth, Texas Meredith Arthur Parent, Fort Worth, Texas