I agree with ATTIreland in the need for better recognition and higher standards accepted for specialisation. Currently this is happening in a number of countries. In NZ we are currently going through a review of what a specialist physio means. Routes to specialisation can be well defined both through academic qualifications and through steps outlined by a body responsible for specialisation

Interestingly the move towards a Doctorate in Physiotherapy as an entry level qualification tugs us in the opposite direction – primarily being a better generalist. Here we are being expected to be better generalists and to be able to manage the challenges of primary practice.

So may be there will continue to be a place for a well qualified generalist. It seems to me that much of the different areas of physiotherapy have more in common. I good graduate physiotherapist should be able to apply their skills to just about any given area providing they take measures including (but not limited to):

* Acquaint themselves with the background knowledge of the area of practice:

* Know how to access and evaluate the best available evidence for the area of practice

* Know their limitations and seek help from specialist physios who they can consult with

Such a generalist is not an expert in the area of practice and should not be seen that way. However there are numerous jobs available where a generalist knowledge base is sought, not a specialist. Jobs where physios have to deal with a wide variety of patient conditions.

I think there is room for both but on both accounts the standard of practice is crucial