The bill HB232 amends Sections 34-24-191 and 34-24-210.1 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to broaden the practice scope for licensed physical therapists. It allows these professionals to conduct initial screenings for non-work-related injuries, diseases, or conditions without requiring a referral, except for patients with work-related injuries. Key insertions include the definition of "physical therapy referrer," the establishment of minimum educational requirements for physical therapists, and the introduction of limitations on the number of patient visits that can occur without a referral. The bill also mandates minimum professional liability insurance for physical therapists and prohibits them from referring to themselves as doctors or physicians. Notably, it deletes the previous requirement for physical therapy to be practiced only upon referral from licensed professionals, enhancing flexibility in practice.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions under which physical therapists can treat patients without a referral, such as cases involving children with developmental disabilities and patients with chronic conditions diagnosed within the last 120 days. It establishes a 30-day or 11-visit limit for treatment without a referral and mandates immediate referral to other health care providers upon measurable deterioration of a patient's condition. The bill also clarifies that physical therapy referrers will not be held civilly liable for actions taken by physical therapists without a referral and requires physical therapists treating patients without a referral to maintain professional liability insurance. The provisions of this act will take effect on June 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-24-191, 34-24-210
Engrossed: 34-24-191, 34-24-210
Enrolled: 34-24-191, 34-24-210