What is required if physical therapy treatment is needed for a patient beyond 30 days for a condition not previously assessed?

In the context of Florida laws governing physical therapy practice, when a patient requires physical therapy treatment beyond 30 days for a condition that has not been previously assessed, it is essential for a practitioner of record to review and sign the plan of care. This requirement ensures that there is ongoing oversight and accountability in the patient's treatment. It serves to verify that the therapy being provided continues to align with the patient’s evolving needs and that the treatment strategies employed are appropriate and effective.

The requirement for the review and signature helps maintain a consistent standard of care and safeguards patient safety. Regularly updating the plan of care with an authorized professional also facilitates communication among the healthcare team, which is crucial for delivering high-quality patient-centered care.

While reassessments and new patient intakes may be part of the overall process in different contexts, the specific regulatory requirement focuses on the need for the practitioner of record to validate a continued plan for care after the initial assessment period has lapsed. Similarly, requiring a physician's prescription for further treatment is not necessary in this case, as the established protocol in Florida emphasizes the role of the practitioner of record in this particular situation.