(Optional) Describe the changing roles of physical therapy and occupational therapy within the medical model.

Description should include the following:

• Physical therapy
• The movement away from required physician referrals toward direct patient access to therapy
  • The emerging concept of the physical therapist as a gatekeeper within the medical field
• Occupational therapy
• Increasing involvement in preventive care, as reflective of the general movement of the medical field toward prevention.
• The movement toward working in the community and natural environments vs. more traditional medical setting.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What is meant by the term gatekeeper in the healthcare system? How can a physical therapist serve as a gatekeeper?
• Why is it important that physical and occupational professionals become more involved in prevention?
• How do referrals and reimbursement affect the type and duration of rehabilitative treatment?