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The oncologic specialty area within the physical therapy profession includes the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, integumentary, and cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitative needs of patients living with and beyond cancer and other chronic illnesses, including HIV. This encompasses acute secondary sequelae of treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy as well as long-term secondary sequelae of treatments and palliative care.
In 2016 the APTA House of Delegates approved board certification in the area of oncologic physical therapy. The first oncology specialist certification examination was administered in 2019. As of June 2024, ABPTS has certified 216 oncology specialists.
“As part of the first cohort to complete the Oncology Board Certification through ABPTS, I feel this has greatly enhanced my practice and ability to serve individuals undergoing treatment for cancer. These individuals face many challenges, including pain, fatigue, neuropathy, lymphedema, strength and ROM deficits, and decline in functional ability/mobility. Advanced clinical knowledge and skills are needed to address these side effects.”
– Paula K. Stout, PT, DPT, board-certified oncologic clinical specialist
Application Requirements
Review general application requirements, as well as requirements per practice specialty area.
Review RequirementsFees and Deadlines
Review application and examination fees and deadlines. Spoiler alert - APTA members save big!
Access Fee ScheduleReady?
All candidates are required to review the Examination Candidate Guide prior to submission through the online application portal.
Set . . .
The "Description of Specialty Practice" for each specialty area serves as the basis for the specialist certification exams and is a valuable aid in determining your readiness for specialist certification.
Go!
Start your application, check your status with the online application portal. Please allow up to six weeks for the initial application review following online submission.
Application Resources
Examination Resources
The Role of the Oncologic Specialty Panel
ABPTS Specialty Panels develop minimum eligibility requirements for certification and recertification in a specialty area based on ABPTS guidelines, and when required screen applicants for eligibility to sit for exams and for recertification. Specialty Panel members are responsible for developing the examination instruments in consultation with the ABPTS testing agency and approved consultants.
Access the specialty panel roster.
ABPTS Approved CEUs
View courses that have been approved by this ABPTS Specialty Panel in the APTA Learning Center.