Relative to the duration of physical therapy.
The removal of the 25-day referral requirement could significantly impact the practice of physical therapy in New Hampshire. Supporters claim that this change will streamline the treatment process by allowing therapists to retain patients for longer periods without the obligation to refer, which may be necessary for patients requiring extended therapy. It acknowledges the expertise of physical therapists and promotes a more integrated approach to patient care. Moreover, it is expected to reduce unnecessary referrals to other healthcare providers, which can be costly and time-consuming.
House Bill 188 aims to amend the existing Physical Therapy Practice Act in New Hampshire by removing the stipulation that physical therapists must refer patients to other health care providers if there is no documented improvement after 25 days of treatment. This change is seen as a move to grant physical therapists greater autonomy in managing their patients' treatment plans without being compelled to seek additional interventions prematurely. Proponents of the bill argue that it empowers therapists to make decisions based on their professional judgment concerning their patients' ongoing needs, potentially leading to more personalized and effective care.
Ultimately, HB 188 represents a significant shift in how physical therapy is regulated in New Hampshire, aligning with broader trends toward increased autonomy for healthcare practitioners. As the healthcare landscape evolves, ongoing evaluations of the practical impacts of this bill will be essential, particularly regarding patient outcomes and the balance between therapist independence and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Despite the support for HB 188, there are concerns and opposition primarily from some healthcare advocates and groups that believe removing this referral mandate could lead to challenges in ensuring appropriate care. Critics argue that without the requirement for referrals, some patients may not receive timely interventions from other necessary specialists, especially those that may require additional medical attention beyond physical therapy. There is fear that this could undermine patient safety and comprehensive treatment plans by fostering a reliance on therapist discretion without sufficient oversight.