Removes limits on licensed physical therapists treating patients without a referral

This bill removes the previous limit on how long a licensed physical therapist can treat a patient without a doctor's referral. It allows therapists to provide care directly to patients who do not have a referral from a physician, dentist, podiatrist, nurse practitioner, or midwife. Under the new rules, therapists must refer patients if symptoms suggest conditions outside their scope, maintain communication with the patient's primary care provider if one exists, and inform patients in writing that insurance may not cover the treatment without a referral. The law also requires therapists to keep a signed record of this notice in the patient's file.