Shop HTCC CHTs Login Here
 
         
   
 

Practice Analysis

 

Specifications for the Hand Therapy Certification Examination are based on the results of a practice analysis study, which is performed periodically by credentialing groups to learn about changes and trends within a profession.

First Practice Analysis in 1985
The first Practice Analysis (then known as a Role Delineation Study) was performed by the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) in 1985 and was written up in the Journal of Hand Therapy in 1987. Based on the results of that study, ASHT membership voted to develop a certification program oriented toward the tasks and activities performed by hand therapists (measure ROM, test strength, etc.). HTCC incorporated as a separate body in 1989 in order to develop the certification program.

Second Practice Analysis in 1994
The second Practice Analysis was conducted by HTCC in 1994 and published in the Journal of Hand Therapy in 1996. The new study tried to find out more about the theory and knowledge that serves as the underpinning of hand therapy; as a result, the knowledge domains were changed to reflect the professional behaviors of a hand therapist (assess patients, plan treatment, etc.).

Third Practice Analysis in 2001
The primary rationale for performing the analysis in 2000-2001 was to update the current profiles of practice, including domains, tasks, knowledge, and skills, as well as the profiles of diagnostic categories and therapeutic procedures implemented across all settings in which hand therapists are employed. The results of this practice analysis led to:

  • Revision of the existing test blueprint of the Hand Therapy Certification Examination.
  • Refinement of the definition and scope of hand therapy that had been based on the original role-delineation study in 1985.
  • Revision of HTCC policies regarding accrual of work experience hours that can be used for certification or recertification eligibility.
  • More detailed information about competencies in hand therapy.

The results of the practice analysis were published in the July-Sept 2002 issue of the Journal of Hand Therapy.

An article about competencies in Hand Therapy was published in the Jan-Mar 2003 issue of the Journal of Hand Therapy.

Click here to download a PDF of the complete Practice Analysis article

Click here for more information about Competencies in Hand Therapy

 

 
     
Site Help
 
      Copyright, Hand Therapy Certification Commission, Inc.Email HTCCHTCC Home  
Forms Contact HTCC Site Map Links Policy Statements Published Materials Site Help