Wisconsin Administrative Code Physical Therapy Examining Board
The Wisconsin Administrative Code for the Physical Therapy Examining Board (PT) is extensive and governs the licensure, practice, and conduct of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the state. The Board's primary purpose is to protect the public by ensuring that physical therapy services are provided by competent and ethical professionals.
These rules are found under Agency PT in the Wisconsin Administrative Code. Here's a breakdown of the key chapters:
Chapter PT 1 - License And Compact Privilege To Practice Physical Therapy:
Outlines the requirements for obtaining a license to practice physical therapy or as a physical therapist assistant in Wisconsin.
Covers definitions, licensure requirements for various applicant types (e.g., graduates of approved programs, foreign-trained individuals).
Addresses the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, which allows licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants from participating states to practice in Wisconsin under a "compact privilege."
Chapter PT 2 - Examinations:
Details the examination requirements for licensure, including the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and the Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Code examination (jurisprudence exam).
Specifies conditions under which an oral examination may be required.
Sets passing scores and procedures for examinations.
Chapter PT 3 - Temporary Licenses:
Establishes the rules for issuing temporary licenses to qualified individuals, typically while they are awaiting completion of examination requirements or full licensure.
Chapter PT 4 - Locum Tenens License:
Governs the issuance of a locum tenens license, which allows a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant to practice in Wisconsin for a limited period under specific circumstances.
Chapter PT 5 - Physical Therapist Assistants, Unlicensed Personnel, And Students:
Crucially defines the scope of practice and supervision requirements for physical therapist assistants (PTAs).
Outlines the permissible duties and levels of supervision for unlicensed personnel who assist in physical therapy.
Addresses the supervision of physical therapy students during their clinical education.
Chapter PT 6 - Referrals:
Addresses the requirements for referrals for physical therapy services, including direct access provisions and when a referral from another healthcare professional is necessary.
Chapter PT 7 - Unprofessional Conduct:
Defines what constitutes unprofessional conduct for licensees, which can lead to disciplinary action. This often includes violations related to patient care, ethical behavior, confidentiality, advertising, and compliance with laws and regulations.
Chapter PT 8 - Biennial License Renewal:
Details the procedures and requirements for the biennial renewal of physical therapist and physical therapist assistant licenses.
Chapter PT 9 - Continuing Education:
Specifies the continuing education requirements that licensees must meet to maintain their licenses, including the number of hours, types of acceptable activities, and record-keeping.
Chapter PT 10 - Ordering X-Rays:
Addresses the authority of physical therapists to order X-rays, including any limitations or requirements for such orders.
Underlying Legal Authority:
The Physical Therapy Examining Board is created under Wis. Stat. § 15.045(7r) and derives its authority from Wis. Stat. ch. 448, Subchapter III, which specifically governs the practice of physical therapy. These statutes provide the overarching legal framework, and the administrative rules in Agency PT provide the detailed regulations for implementation and enforcement.
The Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) oversees the Physical Therapy Examining Board and its functions.
These administrative rules are vital for anyone practicing or seeking to practice physical therapy in Wisconsin, as they define the legal boundaries of the profession and the standards of care expected. You can find the full text of these rules on the Wisconsin Legislature's website or through legal information resources like Justia Regulations or Cornell Law School's Legal Information Institute. The DSPS website for the Physical Therapy Examining Board also provides valuable information and links to these rules.
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