Course Description:

“Foundations for the Primary Care Therapist: A Hands-On Workshop” is an in-person course designed for therapy professionals interested in enhancing their skills in comprehensive ‘whole health’ evaluation including systems review, medical screening & triage, and early management of patients with a wide variety of clinical presentations. Prior to the in-person course, participants will complete an online self-study pre-course where they will be introduced to the 2025 definition of primary care PT, learn about the role of a physical therapist as a primary care provider and be exposed to various care models. They will also develop an understanding of appropriate intake procedures, enhance their understanding in diagnostic lab values, and be introduced to a novel clinical decision-making framework which will lay the foundation for optimal management. The in-person course, an overview of non-NMSK and/or serious NMSK conditions for each body region, ie. the musculoskeletal ‘mimickers’, will be covered. Participants will be challenged to determine the most appropriate early management pathways for various case presentations, including imaging/lab considerations, evaluating the consequences of delay, and most appropriate setting/professionals to refer to. They will also be introduced to a framework for interdisciplinary communication, and be given the opportunity to practice their communication skills.

By the end of this course, rehab professionals will feel confident and competent serving in first-contact roles with a primary care, whole health mindset