What is the primary purpose of the evaluation in physical therapy?

The primary purpose of the evaluation in physical therapy is to determine a treatment plan and set long-term goals. During the evaluation process, the physical therapist conducts a thorough assessment of the patient's physical condition, movement patterns, and any limitations they may have. This information is crucial as it guides the clinician in creating an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs.

By establishing clear long-term goals, the therapist can outline the outcomes they aim to achieve through therapy, such as improving strength, increasing range of motion, or enhancing functional mobility. These goals are not only essential for guiding treatment but also for measuring progress over time, allowing therapists to adjust the care plan as needed to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

While the other options, like assessing patient satisfaction and calculating reimbursements, do play roles in the broader context of healthcare, they are not the primary focus of a physical therapy evaluation. The essence of the evaluation lies in diagnosing and understanding the patient's condition, which ultimately informs the most effective treatment strategy. Similarly, routine health screenings are not specific to the objectives of physical therapy evaluations, which concentrate more on rehabilitation and recovery.