FIONNUALA TANSEY,
Madam, - Having read the various letters to you over the past few weeks on the differences between physiotherapists and physical therapists, I think Seamus Rodgers's statement (January 7th) that the "Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists has chosen to attempt to discredit the Irish Association of Physical Therapists" was not stated or implied by the ISCP and is not true.
Both bodies are trying to inform the public that there are differences between the two groups and their members despite the fact that the names "physiotherapist" and "physical therapist", in language terms, are the same.
The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists is a body which is officially recognised by the Department of Education and members of the ISCP have specialised physiotherapy degrees or the equivalent. In Ireland there are granted by UCD, Trinity College and the Royal College of Surgeons. Chartered physiotherapists are the only physiotherapists recognised for employment by the health boards throughout the country and many work in the area of private practice.
I hope this helps to clarify the difference for your readers. - Yours, etc.,
FIONNUALA TANSEY,
M.I.S.C.P.,
former director of the ISCP,
Rock Road,
Booterstown,
Co Dublin.