The bill amends Section 5-40-23 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-40, which pertains to the practice of physical therapists. The amendment allows licensed physical therapists to order diagnostic imaging to be performed and interpreted by other licensed healthcare professionals. It also requires that any diagnostic imaging tests ordered by a physical therapist must be reported to the patient's primary care physician within seven days of receiving the results, unless the patient does not have a primary care physician. Additionally, managed healthcare plans are mandated to provide a utilization report to the general assembly by September 1, 2022, and annually thereafter.

The bill includes a sunset provision, which initially set the authorization for physical therapists to order diagnostic imaging to expire on December 31, 2023. However, this bill extends the sunset date, allowing the practice to continue until December 31, 2025. The act will take effect immediately upon passage. The explanation provided by the legislative council clarifies that the act's purpose is to prohibit physical therapists from ordering diagnostic imaging as an authorized practice after December 31, 2025.

Statutes affected:
5013: 5-40-23