The Path to Expertise: Why Bother?
Becoming an expert in physical therapy is no small feat. Many PTs might wonder why they should pursue expertise if it doesn’t immediately result in more money, flexibility, or opportunities. However, the truth is that expertise does lead to these benefits if you look in the right places.
The Scarcity of True Experts
Fewer than 10% of PTs are board-certified specialists, and fewer than 2% are graduates of an accredited residency program. This means that the number of verifiable experts in the field of physical therapy is incredibly small, presenting a significant opportunity for those willing to pursue this path.
The Patient’s Perspective on Expertise
Consider this scenario: If you were a patient seeking care for a concerning diagnosis, would you choose a physician who has just completed their MD and started practicing, one who has completed a residency in your specialty area, or one who has completed both a residency and a fellowship focused on your specific diagnosis? Most likely, you would opt for the physician with the highest verifiable expertise, even if it meant driving farther or paying more.
Becoming the Go-To Expert
If you develop deep and verifiable expertise within a specialty or subspecialty in physical therapy, the next crucial step is ensuring potential patients can find you. Just like in the physician example, patients will travel and pay more to see you because of your recognized expertise.
Excellence: The Key to Freedom
Excellence is the precursor to control over your time, money, and passion. In our organization, we’ve built an ecosystem to support the development and expression of excellence with minimal risk for the experts we help train.
The Freedom of Expertise
It is absolutely possible for expertise to set you free. The first step is to become incredible in your field. The second step is to connect with others who can help you share your expertise with the world and build your success.
Taking the First Steps
For physical therapists aiming to elevate their careers, pursuing expertise is not just about the title—it’s about the freedom and opportunities that come with being a recognized authority. Start by deepening your knowledge, seeking out advanced certifications and residencies, and positioning yourself where your expertise can shine. By doing so, you’ll not only improve patient outcomes but also enhance your professional fulfillment and financial rewards.
Conclusion
Embrace the journey to expertise. It requires dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By becoming a verifiable expert in physical therapy, you open doors to greater opportunities, increased flexibility, and higher earnings. Your patients will seek you out, valuing the exceptional care that only a true expert can provide.
Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know! Contact our PT Success Team at ptlighthouse@thejacksonclinics.com
To learn more about The Jackson Clinics and to explore a career with us, please visit thejacksonclinics.com/careers
