SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5382

BYSenators Bauer, Benitz, Kreidler, McCaslin, Kiskaddon and Conner

Revising the treatment authority of physical therapists.

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 3, 1987; March 4, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Wojahn, Chairman; Stratton, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Deccio, Johnson, Kiskaddon, Kreidler, Tanner.

Senate Staff:Jean Meyn (786-7472)

                  March 18, 1987

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 17, 1987

BACKGROUND:

Currently, physical therapists may evaluate a patient without the referral or consultation of a physician but they cannot treat the individual.  Proponents believe that patients should have direct access to physical therapists for treatment.

In 1985 the Executive Committee of the State Health Coordinating Council supported an identical bill.  They concluded that public health and safety would not be jeopardized, that quality of care may be improved with quicker access and that costs may decrease because the mandatory consultation with a physician would be eliminated.

SUMMARY:

The requirement of consultation by a physician prior to treatment by a physical therapist is removed.

Fiscal Note:      requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Dottie Nelson, Washington State Physical Therapy Association; Dr. Rebecca Sullivan, M.D., Puyallup; Jill Floberg, physical therapist, Olympia; Dr. Ward Miles, M.D., State Health Coordinating Council; Dr. David Butters, D.C., United Chiropractors of Washington; Dr. Gerald Clum, D.C., United Chiropractors of Washington; Dr. Richard Hoffmeister, M.D., Washington State Orthopedic Association; Mike Ryherd, State Medical Association; Gail Sage-Bundy, Washington State Orthopedic Association