When is the requirement for a PT to have a practitioner of record review and sign a treatment plan not applicable?

The requirement for a physical therapist (PT) to have a practitioner of record review and sign a treatment plan is not applicable when a patient has been examined by a physician licensed in another state. This situation indicates that the patient has already undergone an assessment by a qualified medical professional, thus meeting an essential criterion for establishing a treatment plan. The jurisdictional boundaries that exist in physical therapy do not impede the recognition of evaluations conducted by out-of-state practitioners, as long as they are valid and align with the standard of care.

In contrast, other scenarios may necessitate a practitioner of record's involvement. For example, if a patient has not been examined by any physician, a signed treatment plan by a practitioner is crucial to ensure that the PT is operating within appropriate medical guidelines. Similarly, in a rehabilitation facility, where a multidisciplinary approach to patient care is common, a practitioner’s review ensures that treatment is aligned with the overall care strategy. Chronic conditions, while they may not require an immediate intervention from a practitioner of record, generally still benefit from the oversight that informs longer-term treatment plans.