HB50 Summary

• Eliminates the requirement that licensed physical therapists obtain a referral from a physician, dentist, chiropractor, physician assistant, or certified registered nurse practitioner before performing physical therapy.

• Allows licensed physical therapists to perform initial evaluations, consultations, and screening services without a referral, and permits them to perform physical therapy services directly to patients.

• Maintains exceptions for physical therapy services in specified settings including developmental disability cases, home health care, nursing homes, wellness and injury prevention programs, and treatment of previously diagnosed conditions within 90 days.

• Adds protections allowing physical therapists employed by or under contract with physicians to avoid disciplinary action for conduct arising from those employment relationships or physician referrals.

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