If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes regarding the authority of physical therapists to order imaging. Under the proposed changes, the existing language that limits physical therapists to ordering "musculoskeletal imaging consisting of plain film radiographs" would be removed, allowing them to order a broader range of imaging types. Additionally, the bill specifies that physical therapists can only order imaging for patients with whom they have an established physical therapist-patient relationship and for whom there is a clinical need, reinforcing the requirement for a direct relationship between the therapist and the patient.

The bill also clarifies the reporting requirements for physical therapists regarding imaging results. It mandates that physical therapists must report the results of all imaging tests they order to the patient's healthcare practitioner of record within seven days of receiving the results. If the patient lacks a healthcare practitioner of record, the physical therapist is required to refer the patient to an appropriate healthcare provider if there are indications of conditions that may exceed the physical therapist's scope of practice. These updates aim to enhance the clarity and scope of practice for physical therapists while ensuring patient safety and continuity of care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-2041.01
House Engrossed Version: 32-2041.01