Abstract

A sense of professional identity, the perception of the profession in society are important factors of professional development, provide the motivation to remain in this occupation. In the paper systemisation of the knowledge concerning the development of the profession of physiotherapist in Poland has been attempted. Analysis of the available archival texts and national literature allowed to identify the test group in the context of the formation of its professional identity. The following processes were tracked formation of the first training centres for the motor rehabilitation and creating an teaching standards, program of specialisation for physiotherapists. Introduction of the term „physiotherapy in place of the functioning of the term „motor rehabilitation has initiated changes within the domain of legislative activities. In accordance with the Bologna Declaration new levels of education were created, which resulted in the acquisition of certain skills and professional titles. The changes also affected the area associated with specialization. This level of training is being actively undertaken by physiotherapists. Currently 26 centers have been accredited in which the specialization program is carried out by about 400 physiotherapists.

Key words:

physiotherapy, learning standards, professional development, history