Physiatrist

AAPM&R describes physiatry as physical medicine and rehabilitation: a medical specialty addressing function and quality of life. Physiatrists work in inpatient and outpatient settings and collaborate with rehabilitation professionals. A physiatrist is a physician, not another name for a physical therapist. [1]

ABPMR’s primary pathway describes an MD or DO degree, PM&R residency and certification examinations. ACGME provides specialty training and program-finder resources. This is an orientation to one board pathway, not a complete guide to every physician education or certification route. [2][3]

FSMB publishes state-specific medical licensing requirements. ABPMR also requires an unrestricted license within its certification process. Keep state physician licensure, PM&R training and board certification distinct when verifying a practitioner; this profile has not reviewed every state or procedure. [4][2]

AAPM&R describes multidisciplinary care involving therapists and other professionals. For a referral, frame the functional question, relevant limitations and existing care relationships. Whether a specific assessment, device or procedure is appropriate remains an individual clinical decision. [1]

1. Clarify the functional or rehabilitation question for the physician.
2. Verify physician licensure and the relevant specialty credentials.
3. Agree who will coordinate the plan and communicate follow-up.

Function and practice connections

• Neuro, aging and independence
• Pelvic, heart, lung and cancer rehabilitation
• Assessment, outcomes and pain
• Authority, collaboration and access
• Techniques, evidence and emerging claims

Compare the role

• Physical therapist
• Occupational therapist
• Speech-language pathologist
• Orthotist
• Prosthetist

Explore the activity

• Therapeutic exercise
• Ordering diagnostic imaging
• Ordering laboratory tests

Related pages explain terminology and existing research coverage. A link does not establish this role’s authority to perform an activity.

1. 1. About Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation aapmr.org (official site)

   American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation · Checked October 15, 2026

   Physiatrist is a physician trained in PM&R; functional goals, inpatient/outpatient settings and multidisciplinary care.

2. 2. Primary Certification Overview abpmr.org (official site)

   American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation · Checked October 15, 2026

   MD/DO medical education, PM&R residency, examinations and license requirement within this board-certification pathway.

3. 3. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation acgme.org (official site)

   Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education · Checked October 15, 2026

   Residency/specialty framework, subspecialties and institution/program finder; not undergraduate medical-school accreditation.

4. 4. State Specific Requirements for Initial Medical Licensure fsmb.org (official site)

   Federation of State Medical Boards · Checked October 15, 2026

   State-specific physician licensing requirements; certification and state licensure are different decisions.