Code of Ethics for the Physical Therapy Profession

APTA's Code of Ethics, effective January 1, 2026, is a single ethical code for both physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, replacing the separate code for therapists and standards for assistants. It applies across clinical care, consultation, education, research and administration, and to students throughout their programs.

It rests on six ethical principles (respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, veracity and fidelity) and nine ethical commitments: respect, integrity, accountability, maintaining professional relationships, compassion and trust, responsible business and organizational practices, direction and supervision, professional expertise, and societal responsibility.

It does two things: it sets enforceable standards of conduct that APTA's Ethics and Judicial Committee applies to members, and it gives aspirational examples to guide ethical choices. Regulators may also rely on it when assessing conduct. The physical therapist remains responsible for all physical therapist services, and assistants work under the therapist's supervision.