HF2689

Purpose of the Bill

This legislative bill is designed to modify the existing statutes in Minnesota that govern the practice of physical therapy. It aims to update licensing and supervision requirements, clarify the scope of practice for physical therapists and assistants, and introduce criminal penalties for prohibited conduct.

Main Provisions

• Definition and Scope of Physical Therapy: The bill amends the definition of physical therapy in Minnesota to include evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and documentation, among other services, while explicitly stating that it does not include the practice of medicine or chiropractic.
• Supervision Requirements: The bill specifies supervision requirements for student physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. Licensed physical therapists can supervise up to two assistants and must have direct patient contact during every second treatment session administered by students.
• Delegation of Duties: Clarifies which patient treatment procedures can be delegated to assistants, ensuring crucial tasks remain the responsibility of licensed therapists.
• Disciplinary Actions: Updates the grounds for disciplinary actions against physical therapists, which can include suspension, revocation of license, fines, and other penalties for violations such as fraud or assisting in the overuse of physical therapy.
• Prohibited Conduct: Sets out what constitutes prohibited activities for those involved in physical therapy. This includes practicing without a license or inadequately supervising support personnel. Violations are classified as a gross misdemeanor.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Repeal of Previous Provisions: The bill repeals certain outdated sections of the current law, specifically definitions and violations related to the practice of physical therapy, as these have been revised and integrated into the updated provisions.
• Telecommunications for Supervision: The bill clarifies that supervision via telecommunications is not acceptable unless it is within the facility, reinforcing physical presence requirements.
• Expanded Disciplinary Grounds: Adds specific behaviors that could lead to disciplinary action, including practicing under the influence, failure to consult with health care providers, fraudulent licensure practices, and the inappropriate delegation of duties.

Relevant Terms

physical therapy, supervision, physical therapist assistant, direct onsite supervision, licensed physical therapist, delegation of duties, disciplinary action, gross misdemeanor, prohibited conduct, telecommunications, fraud, unprofessional conduct, licensure.