Smart Goal Setting in Physical Therapy

Abstract

Topicality. SMART format has been a common method of setting goalsin the rehabilitation process. That is why the study of establishing SMART goals is included in the physical therapy curriculum. The experience demonstrates the need of simple and clear interpretation of SMART format to prepare physical therapists. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to analyze existing approaches of SMART goals formulations to choose one of the basic definitions of SMART format for educational needs and practice, and to offer a clear interpretation of selected definition. Method. Twenty different formulations of SMART format for general use and physical therapy were analyzed. The most common determinations have been identified and selected. Systemic analysis of definition combinations including links between them and the specific of physical therapy was performed. Results. In the selection of a SMARTformat the following problems were identified, such as the large number of options, the repetition of the definitions based on their content, contradiction and inaccuracy and different interpretation of the same definitions.