1. RA 5680 - Philippine Physical Therapy Law ⚖️

Key Provisions

Board of Physical Therapy: Under PRC, 3 members appointed by President
Qualifications: Filipino citizen, good moral character, PT graduate, 5 years practice
Licensure Exam: Given by Board; pass all subjects to become RPT
CPD Requirement: Continuing Professional Development for license renewal

Grounds for Revocation/Suspension

Gross negligence or incompetence
Malpractice or conduct unbecoming of PT
Using false credentials or fraud
Practicing without valid license
Substance abuse affecting practice

2. Core Ethical Principles 🧭

Beneficence

Duty to act in the best interest of the patient. Provide care that promotes patient welfare.

Non-maleficence

"Do no harm." Avoid interventions that could injure the patient or worsen their condition.

Autonomy

Respect patient's right to make decisions. Requires informed consent before treatment.

Justice

Fair distribution of resources. Treat all patients equitably regardless of status.

3. Informed Consent & Confidentiality 📝

Elements of Valid Informed Consent

Disclosure: Nature of condition, proposed treatment, risks, benefits, alternatives
Comprehension: Patient understands information given
Voluntariness: Free from coercion or manipulation
Competence: Patient is legally and mentally capable
Consent: Explicit agreement to proceed with treatment

Exceptions to Confidentiality

Court order or subpoena
Reporting communicable diseases (public health)
Suspected abuse (child, elder, domestic)
Duty to warn (imminent danger to others)
Patient consent for release

Pro Tip para sa Board Exam

Remember the 4 core principles: Beneficence (do good), Non-maleficence (do no harm), Autonomy (patient choice), Justice (fairness). For informed consent questions, all 5 elements must be present! Patient ALWAYS has the right to refuse treatment, even if medically indicated. Know RA 5680 provisions about the Board of PT and grounds for license revocation.

Ethics