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This study was undertaken to define the role and functions of the physical therapist in pediatrics, specifically at the advanced clinical competence level. Questionnaires mailed to all members of the Section on Pediatrics of the American Physical Therapy Association were used to collect the data reported here. Of 109 consultative, evaluation, treatment planning, and implementation tasks, 37 were not considered important to the practice of physical therapy in pediatrics. Of the 72 tasks identified as important, 46 were at entry level and 10 at the advanced level. Sixteen tasks were not clearly defined. This initial survey provides useful data to begin to interpret the physical therapist's role in pediatrics. Validation studies are needed to verify that the identified advanced level responsibilities represent skills necessary for practice in pediatrics at the advanced competence level.

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