New Bill Enables Physical Therapists to Serve in Locum Tenens Assignments
Physical therapists have long been recognized as critical members of medical recovery teams, but until now they have not enjoyed a privilege that physicians, dentist, chiropractors and optometrists possess: the ability to serve in locum tenens assignments. A new bill entitled the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. If passed, this law would enable physical therapists to temporarily replace a colleague and treat Medicare patients with expectation of compensation from Medicare. Physical therapists are essential for the restoration of optimal physical function following an injury, illness or surgical procedure. Without continuing physical therapy during the recuperative phase, a patient could lose some or all of their functionality, dramatically diminishing their quality of life. Physical therapists that must take time…