Bill > SB197

This bill modifies the Physical Therapy Practice Act to eliminate the concept of a "certificate of authorization" for physical therapists practicing without a referral, instead incorporating those provisions directly into the licensing and practice requirements. The bill updates several key areas: it removes references to the separate certificate of authorization, streamlines the requirements for physical therapists to practice without a referral, and updates continuing education standards. The changes include allowing physical therapists to treat patients without a referral for up to 60 days (increased from 30 days), maintaining professional liability insurance requirements, and ensuring that physical therapists have passed appropriate examinations and maintained good standing. The bill also updates the Right-to-Know Law reference and clarifies that physical therapists practicing without a referral still have limitations, such as consulting with or referring patients to physicians for certain complex medical conditions. These modifications aim to provide more flexibility for physical therapists while maintaining professional standards and patient safety.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=197