This bill amends various provisions related to the practice of physical therapy in Minnesota, focusing on updating definitions, supervision requirements, and disciplinary actions. It expands the definition of "physical therapy" to encompass evaluation, diagnosis, and wellness education, while introducing new terms such as "student physical therapist" and "student physical therapist assistant." The bill modifies supervision requirements, allowing physical therapists to supervise assistants remotely, as long as they are accessible via telecommunications. It also clarifies the responsibilities of physical therapists in directing students and assistants, ensuring they maintain direct patient contact during treatment sessions. Additionally, the bill introduces criminal penalties for unauthorized practice and emphasizes the necessity of licensure for those providing physical therapy services, while updating disciplinary actions to include gross negligence.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies conditions under which physical therapists can provide treatment without a referral, allowing them to do so when collaborating with licensed healthcare professionals in good standing. It specifies that the 90-day limitation on treatment without a referral does not apply to services focused on prevention, wellness, education, or exercise. New provisions regarding violations classify individuals or business entities that breach these regulations as guilty of a gross misdemeanor, with potential civil penalties up to $10,000 for each violation. The bill also empowers the Board of Physical Therapy to seek injunctions against violators and repeals certain outdated sections of Minnesota Statutes, streamlining the legal framework surrounding physical therapy practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148.65, 148.706, 148.75, 148.76