HB163 Summary

• Expands authorized referral sources for physical therapy to include licensed assistants to physicians (with valid supervisory agreements), licensed certified registered nurse practitioners (in valid collaborative practice agreements), and licensed chiropractors, in addition to physicians and dentists.

• Creates new Section 34-24-210.1 allowing physical therapists to perform initial evaluations and screenings without referral to determine need for physical therapy services.

• Permits physical therapists to provide treatment without referral in five specific circumstances: children with diagnosed developmental disabilities, home health agency patients, nursing home patients, wellness/conditioning activities for injury prevention, and previously diagnosed conditions (within 90 days) after notifying the diagnosing provider.

• Requires physical therapists treating previously diagnosed conditions without referral to provide a plan of care to the diagnosing health care provider within 15 days of beginning treatment.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.