This article will explore the use of imaging by California physical therapists. With the passing of AB 1000 allowing “direct access” to California physical therapists in 2014, and technological advances in all types of imaging, physical therapy and imaging seem to be a match made in heaven. In fact, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (“CAPTE”) requires imaging to be included in the curriculum of all doctorate of physical therapy programs. Show As the American Physical Therapy Association notes: Physical therapists have been using imaging in practice, research and education for decades. Recent advances in imaging technology such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound imaging has opened new opportunities to further incorporate imaging to physical therapist practice, research and education. Ultrasound has moved from the radiology suite to the point-of-care and into the hands of physical therapists. Physical therapists are finding new and innovative way to use imaging. The goal of this site is to highlight all expanding possibilities of imaging with physical therapy to evaluate and manage injury and disease and study human movement. Expanding the knowledge and availability of imaging in physical therapist practice will better inform patient management. This website is a resource for clinicians, students, clients, caregivers, and researchers to stay current on the emerging trends and uses of imaging in physical therapy. Based upon the above, it seems that physical therapists in California should, therefore, embrace diagnostic imaging. So why should they avoid the temptation to order and review imaging in California? The answer is the California Physical Therapy Practice Act. California Physical Therapy Practice Act The Physical Therapy Practice Act (“Act”) remains the main impediment to integrating imaging into a physical therapist’s practice in California. The scope of physical therapy practice still contains an express prohibition against diagnosis and limit on x-rays: Physical therapy means the art and science of physical or corrective rehabilitation or physical or corrective treatment of any bodily or mental condition of any person by the use of physical, chemical, and other properties of heat, light, water, electricity, sound, massage, and active, passive, and resistive exercise, and shall
include physical therapy evaluation, treatment planning, instruction and consultative services. The practice of physical therapy includes the promotion and maintenance of physical fitness to enhance the bodily movement related health and wellness of individuals through the use of physical therapy interventions. The use of roentgen rays and radioactive materials, for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, and the use of electricity for surgical purposes, including cauterization, are not
authorized under the term “physical therapy” as used in this chapter, and a license issued pursuant to this chapter does not authorize the diagnosis of disease. Use Caution Regarding Imaging While a physical therapist cannot
take x-rays (unless certified as an x-ray technician) and cannot use them to diagnose or even treat, he or she can order them. But what then does the physical therapist do with them? The Board has not retreated from the 1965 Attorney General’s opinion which clearly states that Business and Professions Code section 2660 prohibits a physical therapist from diagnosing. Conclusion – – – – – – – – – – – – – Can physical therapists order imaging in Florida?APTA supports the ability of physical therapists to order appropriate tests as part of their diagnostic process. This includes ordering imaging studies that are performed and interpreted by other health professionals, as well as performing or interpreting selected imaging or other studies.
Can physical therapists order imaging in California?Despite the enormous benefits to patients and the practice of physical therapy from diagnostic imaging, California law, namely the Act, has not evolved sufficiently to allow physical therapists to order and freely use imaging in their practice without significant risk.
Can a physical therapist order imaging in Ohio?When indicated, physical therapists order appropriate tests, including but not limited to imaging and other studies, that are performed and interpreted by other health professionals. Physical therapists may also perform or interpret selected imaging or other studies. ...
Can a Pt order imaging in Colorado?Currently, only Colorado, Wisconsin, and Utah expressly allow PTs to order imaging under certain conditions.
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