8209.1 A physical therapy assistant may perform physical therapy functions only in accordance with this section.

8209.2 A physical therapy assistant may perform the following functions under the direct supervision of a physical therapist:

1. (a) Use of therapeutic exercise, mechanical traction, therapeutic massage, compression, heat, cold, ultraviolet, water, and electricity;
2. (b) Measurement and adjustment of crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs, and instruction in their use and care;
3. (c) Instruction, motivation, and assistance to patients and others in improving pulmonary function, learning, and functional activities such as pre-ambulation, transfer, ambulation and daily living activities, and the use and care of orthoses, prostheses, and supportive devices;
4. (d) Modification of treatment procedures as indicated by patient response and within the limits specified in the plan of care, and reported orally or in writing to the physical therapist; and
5. (e) Participation in routine administrative procedures required for a physical therapist service.

8209.3 A physical therapy assistant may not perform the following:

1. (a) Interpret referrals;
2. (b) Perform evaluation procedures;
3. (c) Initiate or adjust treatment programs; or
4. (d) Assume responsibility for planning patient care.

8209.4 A licensed physical therapist shall be fully responsible for any actions by a physical therapy assistant performing physical therapist functions while under the physical therapist's supervision.

8209.5 A licensed physical therapist shall perform the final evaluation for a patient who has been treated throughout the patient's history by a physical therapy assistant.

8209.6 A physical therapist shall provide direct supervision to no more than three (3)

physical therapist subordinates at any one time.

8209.7 A physical therapist shall ensure the qualifications of all physical therapy assistants under his or her supervision.

8209.8 Before a patient is treated by a physical therapy assistant, a licensed physical therapist shall evaluate the patient and formulate initial and ongoing treatment goals and plans.

8209.9 Pursuant to § 8209.8, a licensed physical therapist shall reevaluate each patient being treated by a physical therapy assistant by the seventh (7th) visit and every seventh (7th) visit thereafter.

8209.10 Support personnel shall only perform routine assigned tasks under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist or a licensed physical therapy assistant, who shall only assign those tasks or activities that are nondiscretionary and do not require the exercise of profession judgment.

8209.11 A physical therapy assistant shall comply with the standards of ethical and professional conduct established by the recognized professional program which is approved by the Board, as they may be amended or republished from time to time.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 8802 (August 15, 2008); as corrected by Errata Notice published at 57 DCR 11097 (November 26, 2010).