The Current Status of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy: An Update of the Description of Specialty Practice

Abstract

Purpose: Cardiopulmonary physical therapy (PT) was one of the first 4 specialty areas recognized within the PT profession in 1978 and was the first to certify specialists in 1985. Physical therapy practice in general and specifically cardiovascular and pulmonary (CVP) PT has expanded over these past 40 years. To maintain currency in this specialty, the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) requires that a practice analysis be performed at least every 10 years. Summary of Key Points: This article reports the findings of the 2017 practice analysis in CVP PT, resulting in the 2018 version of the Description of Specialist Practice: CVP. Statement of Conclusion: This report will serve as the foundation for the examination blueprint for ABPTS board certification in CVP PT, curricula in CVP PT residency programs, activities related to specialist certification, and maintenance of specialist certification.