Physical Therapy Practices of the US and South America

Abstract

The research for this presentation will explore the differences in the field of physical therapy between the United States and various countries in South America to compare and evaluate the preparation and implementation of physical therapy care, to formulate recommendations for possible improvements and pursue further research. The United States and selected South American countries have starkly different economic, social, and political backgrounds which impact the way in which physical therapy is administered and received. This allows for comparisons to be made between each respective model of physical therapy, creating a running dialog on how these programs can improve and if imitation or collaboration are worthy future endeavors. The United States is at the forefront of research development in the field of physical therapy, while a large majority of South American countries are underdeveloped and progressing at a slower rate. Accordingly, it is expected to find that South American countries struggle in regards to technology and financial allotment in comparison to the US. But what can be done to reduce the gap? How can there be improvement? Are there components of the South American Model which the United States can learn from? Through the evaluation of published scholarly articles and first hand experiences, contrasts and comparisons will be drawn between these two models to better understand their methods and distinguish where both can improve.