The bill amends the Occupations Code to enhance the authority of physical therapists in Texas to treat patients without requiring a referral. Specifically, it removes previous stipulations that a physical therapist must have been licensed for at least one year, possess professional liability insurance, and either hold a doctoral degree in physical therapy or complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education in differential diagnosis. The revised language allows physical therapists to treat patients for injuries or conditions as described in Section 453.005 without these prior conditions.

Additionally, the bill updates the heading of Section 453.302 to reflect a focus on the provision of emergency medical care rather than treating patients without a referral. It clarifies that physical therapists may provide emergency medical care in urgent situations to the best of their ability, without needing a referral from another practitioner. The bill also repeals several provisions of the Occupations Code that are no longer applicable under the new regulations. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 453.301, Occupations Code 453.302 (Occupations Code 453)