Bill > HB2583

This bill modifies Arizona's laws regarding physical therapists' ability to order medical imaging, expanding and clarifying their existing rights and responsibilities. Previously, physical therapists could only order musculoskeletal plain film radiographs, but the bill removes that specific limitation, allowing them to order a broader range of imaging tests. The bill requires that such imaging be performed by a healthcare practitioner authorized to do so and interpreted by a licensed physician trained in radiology. Physical therapists are now required to report imaging test results within seven days to the patient's healthcare practitioner of record or referring practitioner. If a patient lacks a healthcare practitioner, the physical therapist must refer the patient to an appropriate provider if they identify potential symptoms or conditions beyond their professional scope. Importantly, the bill adds a new provision stipulating that physical therapists can only order imaging for patients with whom they have an established therapeutic relationship and when there is a clear clinical necessity for the test. These changes aim to provide physical therapists with more diagnostic flexibility while ensuring appropriate patient care and referral protocols.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82417