Ohio Administrative Code Title 4755:2 - Physical Therapy
Ohio Administrative Code – Title 4755:2 (Physical Therapy)
This section of the Ohio Administrative Code sets out the rules and regulations for physical therapy practice in Ohio. It is part of the laws enforced by the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board (commonly called the OTPTAT Board). Let’s break it down in detail:
🏥 1. Purpose of Title 4755:2
This title provides a legal framework to:
Ensure safe, ethical, and competent physical therapy services in Ohio.
Regulate licensing, conduct, and discipline of physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs).
Protect the public from unqualified or unethical practice.
📜 2. Key Provisions in Title 4755:2
Here are the major areas it covers:
✅ Licensing and Certification
Eligibility Requirements:
A candidate must graduate from an accredited physical therapy program.
Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE).
Meet state-specific requirements like jurisprudence exams (testing knowledge of Ohio laws).
Renewal:
Licenses must be renewed every two years.
Continuing education is required for renewal (often specific credit hours approved by the board).
Temporary Permits:
New graduates may be issued temporary permits while awaiting full licensure.
✅ Standards of Practice
Physical therapists must provide care that:
Meets professional standards.
Respects patient dignity and confidentiality (HIPAA compliance).
Is evidence-based and within their scope of practice.
PTAs may only provide services under the supervision of a licensed PT.
✅ Code of Ethical Conduct
PTs and PTAs must:
Avoid conflicts of interest.
Not engage in fraud, misrepresentation, or sexual misconduct.
Report colleagues who are violating laws or putting patients at risk.
✅ Disciplinary Actions
The board can take action against license holders for:
Practicing without a license.
Substance abuse affecting patient care.
Gross negligence or incompetence.
Criminal convictions relevant to practice.
Penalties may include:
Fines.
Suspension or revocation of license.
Mandatory rehabilitation programs.
✅ Scope of Practice
PTs are allowed to:
Evaluate, diagnose (in a PT context), and create treatment plans.
Perform therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and use physical modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
PTAs assist in treatments but cannot create or alter treatment plans independently.
📝 3. Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain competence:
PTs and PTAs must complete a set number of continuing education units (CEUs) every two years.
CEUs must be board-approved and often include ethics and jurisprudence training.
🔒 4. Enforcement
The OTPTAT Board is responsible for:
Investigating complaints against PTs/PTAs.
Holding hearings for disciplinary matters.
Publishing sanctions to maintain public trust and safety.
📌 Summary
Title 4755:2 regulates every aspect of physical therapy in Ohio—licensing, standards, ethics, and discipline—to ensure only qualified, competent, and ethical professionals provide care. It protects both practitioners and the public, supporting high-quality health care in the state.
RELATED Blog
0 comments