SB2153: PHYSICAL THERAPY TELEHEALTH

Legislative Summary

Amends the Illinois Physical Therapy Act. In provisions concerning telehealth services, provides that physical therapists may use telehealth to perform an initial physical therapy evaluation if certain criteria are met. Removes language providing that initial physical therapy evaluations without a referral or established diagnosis may only be performed by a licensed physical therapist and cannot be performed via telehealth unless necessary to address a documented hardship. Provides that a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant may require a patient to undergo an in-person visit instead of providing telehealth services. Removes language providing that the use of telehealth as a primary means of delivering physical therapy must be an exception and documentation must support the clinical justification. Provides that a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant may engage in the practice of telehealth services in this State to the extent of the physical therapist's or the physical therapist assistant's scope of practice as established in the Act and consistent with the standards of care for in-person services. Provides that the provisions concerning telehealth services shall not be construed to authorize the delivery of physical therapy services in a setting or in a manner not otherwise authorized by law. Provides that a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant working under the general supervision of a physical therapist treating a patient located in the State through telehealth services must be licensed or authorized to practice physical therapy in the State. Provides that the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation may, in consultation with the Department of Human Services and the Department of Early Childhood, exempt physical therapists and physical therapist assistants providing physical therapy services as part of the Illinois Early Intervention Program, an individualized education program, or a federal Section 504 plan through a school system from the amendatory provisions by rule to address service delays. Provides that nothing in the amendatory provisions shall be construed to allow noncompliance with any requirements under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Early Intervention Services System Act, the Department of Early Childhood Act, or any other State or federal law or rules. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.