Relates to physical therapist assistants

More flexible supervision for physical therapist assistants

New York allows licensed physical therapist assistants to work without their supervising licensed physical therapist being physically present. Supervision must remain continuous. The therapist must be available to consult with the assistant or patient within a reasonable time under state regulations. Assistants perform only assigned patient-related tasks, not evaluation, testing, interpretation, care planning, or changes to a care plan. The existing cap remains: no more than four assistants per therapist, with the commissioner setting the exact ratio and adjustments. Hospitals can employ assistants within their allowed duties under hospital-designated therapists. The cap does not apply in hospitals when adequate supervision protects public health and safety. The commissioner's regulations govern these supervision rules. These rules take effect one year after enactment.