HB145 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 full physical therapy services without a referral, except physical therapist assistants must still work under the direction of a licensed physical therapist.

• Maintains existing exceptions for physical therapy services in limited circumstances: developmental disability care, home health care, nursing homes, wellness/injury prevention settings, and previously diagnosed conditions (within 90 days).

• Clarifies that physical therapists employed by or contracted with physicians or physician groups are not subject to disciplinary action based solely on those employment or referral relationships.

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