Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 490 - RULES OF GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
Georgia Compilation of Rules and Regulations
Department 490 — Rules of Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy
Overview and Purpose
Department 490 outlines the rules, regulations, and standards established by the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy.
The Board’s primary responsibility is to regulate the practice of physical therapy within Georgia to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
These rules govern the licensing, practice standards, disciplinary procedures, and continuing education for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Georgia.
Key Provisions and Functions
1. Licensing and Registration
Requirements for Licensure:
Graduation from an accredited physical therapy educational program.
Successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
Submission of a completed application with fees.
Background checks and verification of good moral character.
Temporary Licenses:
May be issued under certain conditions, such as for recent graduates awaiting exam results.
Licensure by Endorsement:
Allows physical therapists licensed in other states to obtain licensure in Georgia under specified conditions.
2. Scope of Practice
Defines what activities are considered the practice of physical therapy in Georgia, including:
Evaluation, assessment, and treatment of physical dysfunction.
Therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities.
Supervision of physical therapist assistants.
Specifies activities that are outside the scope and prohibited for physical therapists.
3. Standards of Professional Conduct
Establishes ethical and professional standards for licensees.
Prohibits:
Fraudulent or deceptive practices.
Practicing while impaired or under the influence.
Violations of patient confidentiality.
Requires adherence to state laws and board rules governing physical therapy practice.
4. Continuing Education
License renewal requires completion of a minimum number of continuing education hours.
Specifies approved types of continuing education and documentation requirements.
Continuing education ensures that practitioners maintain current knowledge and skills.
5. Disciplinary Procedures
Details grounds for disciplinary action, including:
Professional misconduct.
Incompetence or negligence.
Criminal convictions related to practice.
Procedures for investigations, hearings, and appeals are outlined.
Possible sanctions include reprimand, probation, suspension, or revocation of license.
6. Physical Therapist Assistants
Rules governing the licensure, supervision, and scope of practice for physical therapist assistants.
Specifies the ratio of assistants to therapists and requirements for supervision.
7. Renewal and Reinstatement
Requirements and deadlines for renewal of licenses.
Procedures for reinstatement after license expiration or disciplinary action.
Importance of Department 490
Ensures that physical therapists and assistants in Georgia are qualified, competent, and adhere to professional standards.
Protects patients by regulating the quality and scope of physical therapy services.
Provides a clear framework for licensing, practice, and discipline.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Requirements for initial and endorsement licensure |
| Scope of Practice | Defines allowed physical therapy practices |
| Professional Conduct | Ethical standards and prohibited behaviors |
| Continuing Education | Mandatory CE hours for license renewal |
| Disciplinary Actions | Grounds and procedures for discipline |
| Assistants | Rules for licensure and supervision of PT assistants |
| Renewal/Reinstatement | Procedures and requirements for maintaining and restoring licensure |
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