Massachusetts SD 1880: An Act relative to physical therapy

Bill Text

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SENATE DOCKET, NO. 1880 FILED ON: 1/16/2025
SENATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. 215

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
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PRESENTED BY:
John J. Cronin
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To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in General
Court assembled:
The undersigned legislators and/or citizens respectfully petition for the adoption of the accompanying bill:
An Act relative to physical therapy.
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PETITION OF:

NAME: DISTRICT/ADDRESS:
John J. Cronin Worcester and Middlesex
Paul McMurtry 11th Norfolk 10/30/2025
Jason M. Lewis Fifth Middlesex 10/30/2025
Brian W. Murray 10th Worcester 11/5/2025
Ryan C. Fattman Worcester and Hampden 11/6/2025

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SENATE DOCKET, NO. 1880 FILED ON: 1/16/2025
SENATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. 215
By Mr. Cronin, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 215) of John J. Cronin for
legislation updating the definition of physical therapy. Consumer Protection and Professional
Licensure.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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In the One Hundred and Ninety-Fourth General Court
(2025-2026)
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An Act relative to physical therapy.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority
of the same, as follows:

1 Section 23A of Chapter 112 of the General Laws is hereby amended by striking out the
2 definition of “physical therapy” and inserting the following:-
3 ''Physical therapy'', a health profession that utilizes the application of scientific principles
4 for the identification, prevention, remediation, habilitation, and rehabilitation of acute or
5 prolonged physical dysfunction thereby promoting optimal health and function. Physical therapy
6 practice is evaluation, prevention, treatment, management, and education related to neurological,
7 musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, integumentary, and respiratory functions. Such evaluation shall
8 include but is not limited to the administration and interpretation of tests and measures, including
9 diagnostic imaging, electrodiagnostic and electrophysiological tests and measures, as an aid to
10 the diagnosis and the creation of patient management plans. Such treatment shall include but is
11 not limited to the use of therapeutic exercise, physical activities, traction, mobilization,
12 functional and endurance training, bronchopulmonary care, postural drainage, splinting and

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13 bracing, massage, heat, cold, water, radiant energy, light, electricity or sound. Such education
14 shall include teaching both patient and family physical therapy procedures as part of a patient's
15 ongoing program. Such management shall include authorization to directly recommend and
16 prescribe durable medical equipment to patients. Physical therapy also shall include the
17 delegating of selective forms of treatment to physical therapist assistants and physical therapy
18 aides; provided, however, that the physical therapist so delegating shall assume the responsibility
19 for the care of the patient and the supervision of the physical therapist assistant or physical
20 therapy aide.
21 Physical therapy shall also include the providing of consultation services for health,
22 educational, and community agencies.”