SB 5248 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

Declares that it is the purpose of this act to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, and to provide for state administrative control, supervision, licensure, and regulation of the practice of physical therapy.

Declares an intent that only individuals who meet and maintain prescribed standards of competence and conduct be allowed to engage in the practice of physical therapy as defined and authorized by chapter 18.74 RCW.

Declares that physical therapists are responsible for patient care given by assistive personnel under their supervision. A physical therapist may delegate to assistive personnel and supervise selected acts, tasks, or procedures that fall within the scope of physical therapy practice but do not exceed the education or training of the assistive personnel.

Declares that nothing in this act may be construed to prohibit other licensed health care providers from using the services of physical therapist assistants, physical therapist aides, or other assistive personnel as long as the licensed health care provider is responsible for the activities of such assistants, aides, and other personnel and provides appropriate supervision.