The primary care specialty area within the physical therapy profession includes the treatment of comprehensive wellness, triage, diagnostic, and management services within primary care pathways for individuals with physical and functional needs. The board-certified clinical specialist in primary care demonstrates expert knowledge and skill in triage and management (including focused interventions) of conditions affecting physical function across all body systems, as well as advanced awareness of, and responsibility to, population health and systems of health care.

In 2025 the APTA House of Delegates approved board certification in the area of primary care. The first primary care specialist certification examination is expected to be administered in 2028 or 2029.