Certification

Rehabilitation of the burn survivor is complex and requires a specialized set of knowledge, skills and experience. The mission of the ABA BT-C program is to promote and recognize specialization for occupational and physical therapists with expertise in burn rehabilitation. Achieving BT-C certification demonstrates to patients, employers, professional peers and the public that a therapist has specialized knowledge and skill in burn rehabilitation and a devotion to professional development and continued education in this area of practice.

In Spring 2018, BT-C certification will be available to occupational and physical therapists who demonstrate expertise in burn rehabilitation through a portfolio application and peer-review process. Minimum criteria must be met prior to eligibility for application:

• Criteria 1 – Possess an occupational therapy or physical therapy license in good standing with the state/territory/country licensing agency.
• Criteria 2 – Graduated from a World Federation of Occupational Therapists or World Confederation for Physical Therapy recognized educational program.
• Criteria 3 – Have worked with the burn injured population for a minimum of 2 years.
• Criteria 4 – Have worked 4000 hours in direct patient care with the burn population in the 5 years prior to application date.

To achieve BT-C certification, an applicant must demonstrate advanced critical thinking, analysis and specialty knowledge for defined Specialty Practice Objectives in various domains of burn rehabilitation practice. The applicant will use Evidence Forms to demonstrate his/her breadth, depth and focused knowledge and skill in burn rehabilitation. The certification is valid for five years.

Why pursue certification?

• Offers professional recognition and validation for advanced specialty knowledge, skills, and experience in burn rehabilitation.
• Establishes a foundation for continuing education, professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Provides a focused and meaningful professional development goal based on competency standards.
• Demonstrates commitment to the practice of burn therapy and to the rehabilitation of burn survivors
• Provides access to a network of professionals with similar interest and expertise in burn rehabilitation