Certification Application Deadline: October 15 Examination Administered: October 23 to November 11
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Please click on the link to download handouts from the Philadelphia Hand Symposium and HTCC's Exam Prep Panel.
The results of the 2022 Examination Preparation Survey are now available. The results of the survey can be found in the "Resources" section of the HTCC website under "Publications".
The results of HTCC's Salary and Benefits Survey are now available for download. CHTs can download the report in the CHT Portal. Non-CHTs can purchase the results in the HTCC store for $75.
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Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb, which includes the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder girdle. It is a merging of occupational therapy and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the structure of the upper limb with function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment, planning and treatment, hand therapists provide therapeutic interventions to prevent dysfunction, restore function and/or reverse the progression of pathology of the upper limb in order to enhance an individual’s ability to execute tasks and to participate fully in life situations.
They bring to their work a commitment and dedication to reach and maintain the highest standards in the profession. CHTs are certified or licensed occupational therapists or physical therapists who, through advanced education, clinical experience, and independent study, have become proficient in the treatment of pathological upper limb conditions resulting from trauma, disease, or congenital or acquired deformity. A CHT has a minimum of three years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy, and has successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper limb rehabilitation. Because of changes in the profession, every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.
The CHT (certified hand therapist) to a hand surgeon is not a commodity or luxury. They are absolutely part of the process of patient healing. They cannot be removed from the process. We see patients together. We work together. We communicate in real--time. My connection with my hand therapist is as an inseparable team.
My goal to become a CHT is driven by a desire to be an expert in my field, an aspiration for advanced competency to promote maximal patient care, and a personal dedication to hand therapy.
HTCC has established a clear framework that delineates the core skills, knowledge, and judgment required to deliver safe and ethical treatment. Maintaining my CHT credential confirms competency in this specialized area and my ongoing commitment to excellence in the practice of hand rehabilitation through life-long learning.
Regardless of the surgeon's diagnostic acumen, technical competency, or level of enthusiasm for an excellent post-operative outcome, the final functional result is only 50% in the hands of the surgeon. Responsibility for the remaining 50% rests on the CHTs with whom we work daily. Reconstructive hand surgery is a pas de deux between surgeon and therapist, guiding the patient to the best possible restoration of function.
While non-CHTs are often experienced and well-trained, I feel that it is necessary to have a standard level of care and the certification process to ensure quality. In my experience, those with CHT certification are more experienced, more knowledgeable about anatomy, and are willing to work outside the box with complex patients.