HB 1137-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

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 it is unlawful for any person to practice or in any manner hold himself or herself out to practice physical therapy or designate himself or herself as a physical therapist, unless he or she is licensed in accordance with this act.

Requires a physical therapist to refer persons under his or her care to appropriate health care practitioners if the physical therapist has reasonable cause to believe symptoms or conditions are present that require services beyond the scope of practice under this chapter or when physical therapy is contraindicated.

Provides that a physical therapist may perform electroneuromyographic examinations for the purpose of testing neuromuscular function only by referral from an authorized health care practitioner and only upon demonstration of further education and training in electroneuromyographic examinations as established by rule. Within two years after July 1, 2005, the secretary shall waive the requirement for further education and training for those physical therapists licensed under this chapter who perform electroneuromyographic examinations.

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.