Delaware lawmakers are considering legislation that would significantly extend how long physical therapists can treat patients without requiring a doctor’s referral.
Senate Bill 110 proposes changing current state law to allow physical therapy treatment for up to 90 days before a physician consultation becomes mandatory. Under existing regulations, physical therapists must obtain a doctor’s referral after treating a patient for 30 days.
The proposed change aims to improve patient access to physical therapy services and ensure uninterrupted care, according to the bill’s language. Physical therapists would continue operating under their established professional training and expertise guidelines.
The legislation also addresses administrative matters by updating license renewal and reactivation procedures for physical therapists and athletic trainers. These changes would align the licensing process with standards used by other professional regulatory boards in Delaware and the Division of Professional Regulation.
The bill specifically targets Title 24 of the Delaware Code, which governs the Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers.
