A New Home for Academic Physical Therapy: ACAPT's First 7 Years. Issue 3 (2017) - Deusinger, Susan S.
Abstract : Background and Purpose. : The American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) emerged in 2011 as a new entity in the American Physical Therapy (APTA). Since then, ACAPT has been dedicated to enhancing the impact of the academic enterprise in physical therapy as it pursues visions for excellence in education, research, and practice. To frame the context for change in which ACAPT emerged, this position paper briefly traces the history of its 2 organizational precursors. Then, key actions taken in ACAPT's first 7 years are presented as a record of how this new organization has responded to the challenges of a profession in change. Position and Rationale. : Rapid changes in health and health care over the past 50 years have demanded new responses in education that prepares the next generations of physical therapists (PTs). ACAPT was developed to invigorate and unite the academic community under a self‐governing structure within APTA that would be the "home" of innovation and advocacy for all aspects of the academic enterprise. These aspects include teaching and learning, scholarship and research, and service, all of which manifest our collective commitment to excellence. It is only through collective action that the "voice" of the academy can speak to the needs of our ultimate stakeholders ‐ the consumers whose health is our primary concern. Conclusion. : Beyond a historical review, the future of ACAPT rests in creative thought, bold action, and sustained collaboration to meet the imperatives for the future. Although the "voice" of ACAPT may not have resonated the same in all sectors of our community, ACAPT's strategic imperatives remain directed at its founding purpose to unify around excellence in education for PTs. This report constitutes an invitation to the academic community to transform physical therapy education together, and move the profession toward greater effectiveness in health care. Unity is the ideal conclusion.