SB104 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 physical therapists to perform initial evaluations, consultations, and full physical therapy services directly to patients without a referral, except physical therapist assistants must still practice under a licensed physical therapist's direction.

• Maintains exceptions for physical therapy services to children with developmental disabilities, home health patients, nursing home patients, wellness/injury prevention programs, and patients with conditions diagnosed within the preceding 90 days (with provider notification).

• Clarifies that physical therapists employed by or under contract with physicians are not subject to disciplinary action based solely on such employment or financial relationships and referrals from those physicians.

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