Relating to physical therapy; and prescribing an effective date.

Added new Section 5 authorizing physical therapists to perform dry needling and requiring the Board to adopt rules establishing training requirements for this service.

Added new definition of 'consultation' in ORS 688.010 to clarify what constitutes professional consultation between physical therapists and other healthcare providers.

Revised the bill summary to remove references to prescribing durable medical equipment and administering vaccines, while adding dry needling and requiring reporters to report claims against physical therapists to the Board.

Added a new operative date of July 1, 2027 for the bill's provisions.

Added requirement for specified reporters to report claims against physical therapists to the Board, and clarified reporting requirements for examination violations to the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

Added requirement for fingerprinting when requesting criminal records checks for license applicants, employees, or those under investigation under ORS 181A.195.

Added authority for physical therapists to prescribe durable medical equipment to patients.

Added authority for physical therapists to administer vaccines to persons 7+ years old, 3+ years old with Governor/DOEM authorization, or 6+ months old for influenza vaccines.

Added authority for physical therapists and assistants to provide services via telehealth.

Modified reinstatement procedures for revoked/suspended licenses to include specific requirements like meeting initial licensure standards and completing consent order conditions.

Added definition of 'competence' in ORS 688.010 to clarify required knowledge, skills and behaviors for effective, safe, ethical and legal practice.