Why Physical Therapy Specialist Certification Is Worth Your Time

Trying to decide if a specialty certification program is right for you? Consider Dr. Ashley Campbell’s story:

I strive for excellence in everything I do, and my career is no exception! After graduating with my DPT in 2011, I sat down and wrote out my 1, 3, and 5-year goals. One of those goals was to take and pass the Sports Clinical Specialist Board Certification. Due to various personal and financial reasons, residency wasn’t in the cards; however, I created a plan and set out on my quest to become SCS certified.

Along the way I encountered critics and nay-sayers who questioned my pursuit of the SCS. At times it felt like an uphill battle, especially as a young clinician striving to break into the “sports world” without an Athletic Training Certification. Nevertheless, my commitment never waned, and I earned my SCS in 2015. I immediately found myself immersed in a network of professionals who share the same commitment to going above and beyond. The SCS has allowed me to stand out. I certainly feel it was worth the effort!

— Ashley Campbell, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS works at Belmont University School of Physical Therapy as well as specializes in the assessment and treatment of hip pathology at Nashville Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center.

Forge Your Own Path

For those interested in certification you may read or hear things like “it won’t increase your pay” or “it won’t help you get a job”, but you must remember that there is more to a certification than the ability to add letters behind your name. Per Ashley’s story, commitment to a board certification program tells employers, colleagues, and patients that you are willing to go above and beyond what was required or expected. It shows your dedication to your field.

New Opportunities

Board certification also opens new doors to career growth:

• Better Serve Your Patients: Advanced certification widens your scope of practice, letting you give your patients the best care possible.
• Networking Experience: Whether it’s through volunteering at local sporting events to gain sports coverage hours for the SCS, or through a mentorship in preparation for the GCS, each specialty provides numerous opportunities to connect with a wide array of clinicians, caretakers, coaches, etc.
• Stand Out: Board certification hones your skills, allowing you to distinguish yourself from today’s large, saturated, PT market.
• Dedicated Community: Upon earning your certification, you will find yourself amongst a network of professionals who share your dedication.

Whether your specialty is Sports, Orthopedics, or Geriatrics, the opportunity to earn this certification is not one to pass up. A guided, high-quality, preparatory program created and taught by experts in their respective fields is an incredible resource. MedBridge offers a comprehensive selection of industry-leading Certification Prep Programs designed for physical therapists, as well as over 1,500 physical therapy courses that span specialties and settings. Take advantage today!