SB13 Summary

• Amends Alabama Code Section 34-24-210.1 to expand when licensed physical therapists may practice without a physician referral or prescription.

• Allows physical therapists to perform initial evaluations and provide services without referral for seven categories of patients, including those with previously diagnosed conditions within 120 days, chronic conditions under active management, and patients receiving conditioning or wellness services.

• Adds a new category (7) permitting treatment without referral for patients seeking to restore strength, endurance, coordination, or range of motion, provided they do not initially present with new-onset pain, illness, or injury.

• Extends the timeframe for previously diagnosed conditions from 90 days to 120 days and requires physical therapists to notify the diagnosing health care provider of their plan of care within 15 days of intervention.

• Clarifies that the act does not require health benefit plans or insurance carriers to cover or reimburse physical therapy services provided under these expanded provisions; becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and governor approval.