The bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to expand the scope of practice for physical therapists regarding diagnostic imaging. Specifically, it updates the definition of the "practice of physical therapy" to include the ability for physical therapists to order musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging, which was previously limited to plain film radiographs. The new language clarifies that physical therapists can order this imaging if they hold a clinical doctorate degree in physical therapy or have completed a board-approved formal medical imaging training program.

Additionally, the bill mandates that physical therapists who order diagnostic imaging must report the results to the patient's designated specialty or primary care provider within seven days of receiving the images, ensuring better coordination of care. Exceptions to this reporting requirement are provided for cases where the patient lacks a designated provider or when the provider has already received the images from the healthcare professional who performed or interpreted them.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 43-26.1-01, 43-26.1-11.1
Adopted by the Senate Human Services Committee: 43-26.1-01, 43-26.1-11.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 43-26.1-01, 43-26.1-11.1