IL SB2153

Expands telehealth options for initial physical therapy evaluations by allowing them when the patient has a referral from a health care professional, has an established relationship with the physical therapist, or when the therapist can facilitate an in-person examination if needed

Removes the previous requirement that telehealth be used only as an exception requiring clinical justification and documentation of hardship (such as geographical or weather conditions)

Requires physical therapists providing telehealth to have the capacity to provide or facilitate a referral to in-person care within Illinois, and patients must be able to request in-person care at any point during treatment

Allows physical therapists and physical therapist assistants treating Illinois patients via telehealth to practice only if licensed or authorized in Illinois, within their established scope of practice

Authorizes the Department to exempt physical therapists providing services through the Illinois Early Intervention Program, individualized education programs, or Section 504 plans through school systems from telehealth restrictions to address service delays