Bill > SB0144

This bill modifies Michigan's laws regarding physical therapy practice, primarily focusing on removing the previous requirement for a prescription from a healthcare professional for physical therapy treatment. The bill expands the definition of "practice of physical therapy" to include more detailed descriptions of evaluation, testing, and intervention processes, while clarifying that physical therapists cannot diagnose medical conditions outside their scope of practice. It allows physical therapists to treat patients with or without a referral from a healthcare professional, but imposes new requirements for communication and consultation with healthcare professionals. When treating patients without a referral, physical therapists must now refer patients to appropriate healthcare professionals if symptoms exceed physical therapy's scope, consult with healthcare professionals if treatment is not progressing as expected, and inform patients about potential financial liability. The bill also broadens the definition of "healthcare professional" and provides more flexibility for physical therapists in treating patients, while maintaining professional standards of care and communication. The changes will take effect 180 days after the bill is enacted into law, giving healthcare providers time to adapt to the new regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0144