Texas House Bill HB4099

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/7/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/29/25
• Voted on by House: 5/16/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/26/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/28/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to the treatment of a patient by a physical therapist without a referral.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4099 is expected to have a significant impact on state law governing healthcare practices, particularly in the realm of physical therapy. Under this bill, the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners is required to establish new rules by December 1, 2025, to detail the operational aspects of this legislative change. The ability for therapists to provide direct treatment could lead to positive changes in patient care, with potential reductions in treatment delays and associated healthcare costs. This could mark a shift toward more patient-centered practices, fostering an environment that values accessibility and timely intervention in physical health.

Summary

House Bill 4099 aims to streamline the treatment process for patients by allowing physical therapists to treat patients for up to 30 consecutive days without needing a referral from a physician. The change is designed to improve patient access to physical therapy services and enhance the efficiency of patient care within the healthcare system. By reducing barriers to initial treatment, the bill seeks to promote timely interventions and advance patient recovery outcomes. It repeals the previous referral requirements that limited physical therapists' autonomy to manage care effectively within the first month of treatment.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 4099 appears to be predominantly supportive, particularly among healthcare advocates and physical therapy professionals who view the bill as a progressive step toward modernizing treatment protocols. They argue that eliminating referral requirements will empower physical therapists and improve patient access to necessary services. However, some concerns were raised regarding the potential risks of therapists making treatment decisions without prior physician oversight, suggesting a need for balanced regulations to ensure patient safety and care quality.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4099 include debates on the implications of deregulating referral requirements for physical therapy. Opponents of the bill may voice worries about the adequacy of training for physical therapists in certain complex cases and the potential for inappropriate treatments being administered without medical oversight. Balancing the need for accessible patient care with safeguards for patient safety represents a key challenge. Nevertheless, the passage of this bill marks a pivotal moment in Texas healthcare legislation, reflecting ongoing modifications in how health services are delivered in the state.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 453. Physical Therapists
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