The original instrument was prepared by Christine Arbo Peck. The following digest,
which does not constitute a part of the legislative instrument, was prepared by Nancy
Vicknair.
DIGEST
SB 291 Reengrossed 2016 Regular Session Mills
Present law provides that except under certain circumstances as specified in present law, physical
therapy treatment may only be implemented based on the prescription or referral of a person licensed
to practice medicine, surgery, dentistry, podiatry, or chiropractic.
Proposed law revises present law to provide that a physical therapist may render physical therapy
treatment with or without a type of prescription or referral provided for in present law.
Proposed law requires a physical therapist to provide notice to the health care provider of the
patient’s choice within 15 days of implementing physical therapy treatment. Also requires a physical
therapist to refer the patient to an appropriate health care provider if after 30 business days of
implementing such treatment the patient has not made measurable or functional improvement.
Proposed law repeals provisions of present law which become inapplicable pursuant to proposed
law.
Effective upon signature of the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Amends R.S. 37:2418(B); repeals R.S. 37:2418(C) and (D))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Senate Floor Amendments to engrossed bill
1. Requires a physical therapist to notify the health care provider of the patient's choice
within 15 days of implementing treatment.
2. Requires a physical therapist to refer a patient to an appropriate health care provider
if after 30 business days of implementing treatment the patient has not made
measurable or functional improvement.