The bill amends Section 5-40-23 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-40, which pertains to "Physical Therapists." It allows licensed physical therapists to order diagnostic imaging, which must be performed and interpreted by other licensed healthcare professionals. The bill mandates that physical therapists report the results of any diagnostic imaging tests to the patient's designated primary care physician within seven days, unless the patient does not have a primary care physician. Additionally, managed healthcare plans are required to provide a utilization report to the General Assembly annually, starting September 1, 2022.

Significantly, the bill removes the provision that would have prohibited physical therapists from ordering diagnostic imaging after December 31, 2025, thereby allowing them to continue this practice indefinitely unless further legislative action is taken. This change aims to enhance the role of physical therapists in patient care by enabling them to utilize diagnostic imaging as part of their authorized practice. The act will take effect upon its passage.

Statutes affected:
198: 5-40-23