This bill amends the supervision requirements for physical therapist assistants in Louisiana. It changes the terminology from "physical therapist assistants" to "therapy supportive personnel" and increases the maximum number of individuals a physical therapist can supervise from five to six. The bill also removes the previous requirement for documented conferences between physical therapists and assistants, allowing for more flexibility in supervision. Additionally, it specifies that a supervising physical therapist must treat and reassess patients at least every twelfth treatment day or every thirty days, rather than every sixth treatment day.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that physical therapist assistants are not responsible for interpreting or implementing referrals, performing evaluations, or making major modifications to treatment programs. It emphasizes the supervising physical therapist's responsibility for patient care and their availability through telecommunication. Overall, the changes aim to streamline the supervision process while ensuring patient safety and care quality.

Statutes affected:
HB159 Original: 37:2418(F)(1)
HB159 Engrossed: 37:2418(F)(1)
HB159 Enrolled: 37:2418(F)(1)
HB159 Act 65: 37:2418(F)(1)