Section 40.171. Functions of physical therapist assistants

(a) A physical therapist assistant may perform only activities for which the physical therapist assistant has received formal education and training, including the following activities:

(1) Providing patient-care services as specified in the patient’s plan of care.

(2) Modifying treatment techniques as indicated in the patient’s plan of care.

(3) Responding to acute changes in the patient’s physiological state.

(4) Performing selected tests and measurements consistent with the physical therapist assistant’s formal education and training.

(b) Physical therapist assistants may not interpret referrals or tests, perform evaluation procedures, initiate treatment programs, assume responsibility for planning patient care or perform activities which require the formal education or training and the skill and knowledge of a licensed physical therapist.

(c) Patient care services performed by a physical therapist assistant under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist shall be on the basis of not more than three physical therapist assistants for a licensed physical therapist.

(d) The initial patient contact shall be made by a licensed physical therapist for evaluation of the patient and establishment of a plan of care.

The provisions of this § 40.171 adopted July 24, 1992, effective July 25, 1992, 22 Pa.B. 3872; amended October 16, 1992, effective July 25, 1992, 22 Pa.B. 5163; amended December 21, 2012, effective December 22, 2012, 42 Pa.B. 7652. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (333460).

Notation

Authority

The provisions of this § 40.171 amended under 3(a) of the Physical Therapy Practice Act (63 P. S. § 1303(a)); and section 16 of the act of July 4, 2008 (P. L. 293, No. 38).

Cross References

This section cited in 49 Pa. Code § 40.52 (relating to unprofessional conduct; physical therapists); and 49 Pa. Code § 40.181 (relating to refusal, suspension or revocation of certification).