AL SB237

Licensed physical therapists may perform initial evaluations and screenings without a referral to determine the need for physical therapy services.

Physical therapists may provide services without referral in six categories: developmental disabilities in children, home health care patients, nursing home patients, wellness/injury prevention activities, previously diagnosed conditions (within 120 days), and medically stable individuals for up to 30 calendar days.

After 30 days of treatment without a referral, a physical therapist must obtain a referral from a licensed physician, dentist, chiropractor, physician assistant, or certified registered nurse practitioner unless the patient shows measurable or functional improvement.

For previously diagnosed conditions, the physical therapist must notify the diagnosing health care provider and submit a plan of care within 15 days of beginning treatment.

The bill does not require health insurance plans, HMOs, PPOs, or other health care payers to cover or reimburse physical therapy services provided under these direct-access provisions.

The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.