Who can issue a temporary permit to an applicant?

The ability to issue a temporary permit to an applicant is vested in the board, which is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the practice of physical therapy in Florida. The board has the authority to establish rules and decide on applications related to licensure, including the granting of temporary permits, which allow individuals to practice under certain conditions while they fulfill specific requirements for permanent licensure.

The Department of Health, while it handles many administrative functions related to health licensing, does not have the direct authority to issue temporary permits; these are specifically governed by the board. The applicant's supervisor or any licensed physical therapist is not authorized to issue permits, as they do not possess the regulatory power that is the responsibility of the board. Therefore, it is the board that carries the legal authority to ensure that permits are issued in accordance with set standards and regulations, thereby safeguarding the public and maintaining professional standards within the practice.