Virginia Law

A. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or respiratory therapy services shall be provided according to the medical plan of care by or under the direction of an appropriately qualified therapist currently licensed in Virginia and may include, but are not limited to:

1. Assessing client needs or admission for service as appropriate;

2. Implementing a medical plan of care and revising as necessary;

3. Initiating appropriate preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative techniques according to the medical plan of care;

4. Educating the client and family regarding treatment modalities and use of equipment and devices;

5. Providing consultation to other health care professionals;

6. Communicating with the physician and other health care professionals regarding changes in the client's needs;

7. Supervising therapy assistants and home attendants as appropriate; and

8. Preparing clinical notes.

B. Therapy assistants may be used to provide therapy services.

1. The occupational therapy assistant shall be currently certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and shall practice under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.

2. The physical therapy assistant shall be currently licensed by the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy and shall practice under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

C. Duties of therapy assistants shall be within their scope of practice and may include, but are not limited to:

1. Performing services planned, delegated, and supervised by the appropriately licensed therapist; and

2. Preparing clinical notes.

D. Supervision of services shall be provided as often as necessary as determined by the client's needs, the assessment of the licensed therapist, and the organization's written policies not to exceed 90 days.