Wis. Admin. Code PT — Physical Therapy Examining Board

Chapter PT 1 LICENSE AND COMPACT PRIVILEGE TO PRACTICE PHYSICAL THERAPY

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 1.01 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-1.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 1.01}

(1) The rules in this chapter are adopted by the physical therapy examining board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 448.53 (1), and 448.986 (3), Stats.

(2) The rules in this chapter are adopted to govern the issuance of licenses to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants under ss. 448.53, 448.535, 448.54, and 448.55, Stats., and the granting of compact privileges under subch. IX of ch. 448, Stats.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am., Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 03-020: am. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: r. and recr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 20-056: am. Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 1.02 Definitions {#sec-pt-1.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 1.02}

As used in chs. PT 1 to 9:

(1) “Board” means the physical therapy examining board.

(3) “Client” means a person who has contracted for, who receives, and or who has previously received or contracted for, the professional services of a physical therapist, a physical therapist assistant, student or temporary licensee, whether the physical therapist, student or temporary licensee is paid or unpaid for the service, and regardless of where such services occur. If a client is a person under age 18, the client’s parent or legal guardian are also clients.

(4) “Direct, immediate, on-premises supervision” means face-to-face contact between the supervisor and the person being supervised, as necessary, with the supervisor physically present in the same building when the service is performed by the person being supervised.

(5) “Direct, immediate, one-to-one supervision” means one-to-one supervision with face-to-face contact between the person being supervised and the supervisor. The supervisor may assist the person being supervised as necessary.

(6) “FSBPT” means the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

(7) “General supervision” means direct, on-premises contact between a supervisor, and a physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, student or temporary licensee being supervised, as necessary. Between direct contacts, a supervisor is required to maintain indirect, off-premises telecommunication contact such that the person being supervised can, within 24 hours, establish direct telecommunication with a supervisor.

(8) “Informed consent” means a client’s voluntary, knowing and understood agreement to the service to be provided by the physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, temporary licensee, candidate for reentry, or student. Informed consent requires, at a minimum, that the licensee has provided information about reasonable alternate modes of diagnosis and treatment, and the risks and benefits of each, that a reasonable person in the client’s position would need before making an informed decision concerning the mode of treatment or diagnosis.

(a) Informed consent may ordinarily be documented by the written signature of the client, the client’s guardian or the client’s power of attorney for healthcare, or in the alternative by a notation in the patient’s health care record as defined in s. 146.81 (4), Stats. If circumstances prevent signed documentation by the client, the licensee may document verbal consent within the patient’s health care record.

(b) A client may withdraw informed consent verbally or in writing at any time before a service is completed.

(c) Informed consent shall include an understanding that the client may, upon request, have a chaperone present while services are provided.

(d) No service or part of a service may be provided without the client’s informed consent or after informed consent has been withdrawn.

(e) No service or part of a service may be provided without informing the client of the general nature of the costs associated with the service provided or contact information for the entity who can address billing concerns.

(9) “Intimate parts” has the meaning given in s. 939.22 (19), Stats.

(10) “License” means any license, permit, certificate or registration issued by the board.

(11) “Licensee” means any person validly possessing any license granted and issued to that person by the board.

(11e) “Physical therapist” has the meaning given in s. 448.50 (3), Stats.

(11m) “Physical therapist assistant” has the meaning given in s. 448.50 (3m), Stats.

(11n) “Physical therapist assistant student” means a person enrolled in a physical therapist assistant educational program approved by the board who performs physical therapy procedures and related tasks consistent with the person’s education, training, and experience under the direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a physical therapist or under the supervision of a physical therapist assistant as authorized by s. PT 5.03 (2).

(11r) “Physical therapist student” means a person enrolled in a physical therapist educational program approved by the board who performs physical therapy procedures and related tasks consistent with the person’s education, training, and experience under the direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a physical therapist.

(11s) “Physical therapy” has the meaning given in s. 448.50 (4), Stats.

(11w) “Student” means a physical therapist student or physical therapist assistant student.

(12) “Supervisor” means a person holding a regular license as a physical therapist issued under s. 448.53 (1), Stats., or a physical therapist compact privilege granted by the board who is competent to coordinate, direct, and inspect the accomplishments of another physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, student, or temporary licensee. “Supervisor” does not include a person holding a license issued under ch. PT 3 or 4.

(12m) “Telehealth” has the meaning given in s. 440.01 (1) (hm), Stats.

(13) “Temporary licensee” means a graduate of a physical therapy school or program who has met the requirements for and who has been granted a temporary license to practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant as provided in ch. PT 3.

(14) “Unlicensed personnel” means a person other than a physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, or student who performs patient related tasks consistent with the person’s education, training and experience under the direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a physical therapist.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; r. (5), cr. (6), Register, April, 2000, No. 532, eff. 5-1-00; CR 03-020: am. (intro.), (2) and (6) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: am. (1), renum. (2), (3), (4) to be (6), (10), (11), cr. (2) to (5), renum. (6) to be (14), cr. (7) to (9), (12), (13) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 15-027: r. (2) Register January 2016 No. 721, eff. 2-1-16; CR 20-055 cr. (11c), (11g), (11n), (11r) (11w), am. (12), (14) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; CR 20-056: cr. (11e), (11m), (11s), am. (12) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; merger of (11c), (11g), (12) treatments by CR 20-055 and (11e), (11m), (12) treatments by CR 20-056 made under s. 13.92 (4) (bm), Stats., and correction in numbering of (11c), (11g) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 1., Stats., Register June 2021 No. 786; CR 25-089: cr. (12m) Register June 2026 No. 846, eff. 7-1-26.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 1.03 Licensure requirements {#sec-pt-1.03 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 1.03}

(1) Except as provided under subs. (3) and (4), every person applying for any class of license to provide physical therapy services shall submit to the board all of the following:

(a) A completed and verified application form provided by the board and the fees specified in s. 440.05 (1), Stats.

Note: Application forms are available from the department of safety and professional services’ website at www.dsps.wi.gov.

(c) For a physical therapist, verified documentary evidence of graduation from a school of physical therapy; for a physical therapist assistant, verified documentary evidence of satisfactory completion of a physical therapist assistant educational program approved by the board.

(d) In the case of a graduate of a foreign school of physical therapy or physical therapist assistant educational program, verification of educational equivalency to a board-approved school of physical therapy or physical therapist assistant educational program. The verification required under this paragraph shall be obtained from a board-approved foreign graduate evaluation service, based upon submission to the evaluation service of all of the following material:

1. A verified copy of transcripts from the schools from which secondary education was obtained.

2. A verified copy of the diploma from the school or educational program at which professional physical therapy or physical therapist assistant training was completed.

3. A record of the number of class hours spent in each subject, for both preprofessional and professional courses. For subjects which include laboratory and discussion sections, the hours must be described in hours per lecture, hours per laboratory, and hours per discussion per week. Information must include whether subjects have been taken at basic entry or advanced levels.

4. A syllabus that describes the material covered in each subject completed.

(e) Evidence of successful completion of the examinations specified in ch. PT 2.

(2) If an applicant is a graduate of a school of physical therapy or a physical therapist assistant educational program not approved by the board, the board shall determine whether the applicant’s educational training is equivalent to that specified in sub. (1) (c). In lieu of its own evaluations, the board may use evaluations prepared by a board-approved evaluation service. The cost of an evaluation shall be paid by the applicant.

Note: The board periodically reviews and approves foreign graduate evaluation services. A list of board-approved evaluation services is available upon request by calling (608) 266-2112.

(3) The board may waive the requirement under sub. (1) (c) for an applicant who establishes, to the satisfaction of the board, all of the following:

(a) The applicant is a graduate of a physical therapy school or a physical therapist assistant educational program.

(b) The applicant is licensed as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant by another licensing jurisdiction in the United States.

(c) The jurisdiction in which the applicant is licensed required the applicant to be a graduate of a school or educational program approved by the licensing jurisdiction or of a school or educational program that the licensing jurisdiction evaluated for educational equivalency.

(d) The applicant has actively practiced as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, under the license issued by the other licensing jurisdiction in the United States, for at least 3 years immediately preceding the date of application.

Note: The board approves those schools of physical therapy and physical therapist assistant educational programs that are at the time of the applicant’s graduation recognized and approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

(4) A reciprocal license to provide physical therapy services shall be granted to a service member, a former service member, or the spouse of a service member or former service member who the board determines meets all of the requirements under s. 440.09 (2), Stats. Subject to s. 440.09 (2m), Stats., the board may request verification necessary to make a determination under this subsection.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; r. (1) (b), am. (2) and (3) (intro.), Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 03-020: am. (1) (intro.), (c), (d) (intro.), 2., (2), (3) (a) to (d), Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: am. (1) (c) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 15-027: am. (title), (1) (intro.), (a), cr. (1) (e) Register January 2016 No. 721, eff. 2-1-16; CR 20-054: am. (1) (intro.), (d) (intro.), 3., 4., (3) (a) to (d), cr. (4) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; correction in (4) made under s. 35.17, Stats., Register June 2021 No. 786.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 1.04 Compact privilege requirements {#sec-pt-1.04 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 1.04}

Every person applying for a compact privilege shall submit to the board all of the following:

(1) A completed application form provided by the board.

(2) The fee specified in s. 448.985 (3) (d), Stats.

(3) Evidence of successful completion of the examination specified in s. PT 2.01 (6) (c).

Note: An application for a compact privilege may be obtained from the department of safety and professional services’ website at www.dsps.wi.gov.

History

• CR 20-056: cr. Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Chapter PT 2 EXAMINATIONS

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 2.001 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-2.001 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 2.001}

(1) The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 448.53 (1) and 448.54, Stats.

(2) The rules in this chapter are adopted to govern examination of applicants for licensure of physical therapist and physical therapist assistants under ss. 448.53, 448.535, 448.54, and 448.55, Stats.

Note: The examination requirement for a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant compact privilege is under s. PT 1.04.

History

• CR 12-002: cr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 2.01 Panel review of applications; examinations required {#sec-pt-2.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 2.01}

(1) All applicants shall complete written examinations. In addition, an applicant may be required to complete an oral examination if the applicant:

(a) Has a medical condition which in any way impairs or limits the applicant’s ability to practice physical therapy with reasonable skill and safety.

(b) Uses chemical substances so as to impair in any way the applicant’s ability to practice physical therapy with reasonable skill and safety.

(c) Has been diagnosed as suffering from pedophilia, exhibitionism or voyeurism.

(d) Has within the past 2 years engaged in the illegal use of controlled substances.

(e) Has been subject to adverse formal action during the course of physical therapy education, postgraduate training, hospital practice, or other physical therapy employment.

(f) Has been disciplined or had licensure denied by a licensing or regulatory authority in Wisconsin or another jurisdiction.

(g) Has been convicted of a crime the circumstances of which substantially relate to the practice of physical therapy.

(h) Has not practiced as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant for a period of 3 years prior to application, unless the applicant has been graduated from a school of physical therapy or a physical therapist assistant educational program within that period.

(i) Has been graduated from a physical therapy school or a physical therapist assistant educational program not approved by the board.

(j) Has voluntarily limited the scope of his or her practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant after being the subject of an investigation by a credentialing authority or employer.

(2) An application filed under s. PT 1.03 for an applicant meeting any condition under sub. (1) (a) to (j) shall be reviewed by an application review panel consisting of at least 2 board members designated by the chairperson of the board. The panel shall determine whether the applicant is required to complete an oral examination.

(3) All examinations shall be conducted in the English language.

(4) Where both written and oral examinations are required, they shall be scored separately and the applicant shall achieve a passing grade on all examinations to qualify for a license.

(5) The board shall notify each applicant required to complete an oral examination of the time and place scheduled for that applicant’s examination. Failure of an applicant to appear for examination as scheduled may void the applicant’s application and require the applicant to reapply for licensure unless prior scheduling arrangements have been made with the board by the applicant.

(6)

(a) The score required to pass each written physical therapy or physical therapist assistant examination shall be based on the board’s determination of the level of examination performance required for minimum acceptable competence in the profession and on the reliability of the examination. The passing grade shall be established prior to giving the examination.

(b) The passing scores for the national physical therapy examination and the national physical therapist assistant examination are those scores recommended by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

(c) To pass the examination on statutes and rules, the applicant shall receive a score determined by the board to represent minimum competence to practice after consultation with subject matter experts who have received a representative sample of the examination questions and available candidate performance statistics.

(7) Members of the board shall conduct oral examinations of each candidate and are scored as pass or fail.

(8) Any applicant who is a graduate of a school for physical therapists or an educational program for physical therapist assistants in which English is not the primary language of communication shall take and pass each of the following in order to qualify for a license:

(a) The test of English as a foreign language as administered by the Educational Testing Service.

(b) The test of written English as administered by the Educational Testing Service.

(c) The test of spoken English as administered by the Educational Testing Service.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am. (6) (a), r. and recr. (6) (b) and (c), Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; am. (8) (intro.), cr. (8) (a) to (c); Register, April, 2000, No. 532, eff. 5-1-00; CR 03-020: am. (1) (h), (i), (6) (a), (b) and (8) (intro.) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: cr. (1) (j) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 15-027: am. (5) Register January 2016 No. 721, eff. 2-1-16; CR 17-091: am. (2), (4), (5), (8) (a) to (c) Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 2.02 Conduct of examinations {#sec-pt-2.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 2.02}

At the start of the examinations, applicants shall be provided with the rules of conduct to be followed during the course of the examinations. Any violation of these rules of conduct by any applicant may be cause for the board to withhold the applicant’s grade and to find after a hearing that the applicant has failed the examination.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am. Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 2.03 Failure and reexamination {#sec-pt-2.03 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 2.03}

An applicant who fails to achieve a passing grade on the examination on statutes and rules may retake the examination upon submission of a reexamination fee.

Note: A list of all current examination and reexamination fees may be obtained at no charge from the Office of Examinations, Department of Safety and Professional Services, 1400 East Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 8366, Madison, WI 53708 or by email at dsps@wisconsin.gov.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; CR 17-091: am. Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Chapter PT 3 TEMPORARY LICENSES

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 3.001 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-3.001 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 3.001}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2) and 448.53 (2), and 448.55 (3), Stats., and govern the various classes of temporary licenses to practice physical therapy.

History

• CR 12-002: cr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 3.01 Temporary license to practice under supervision, initial licensure {#sec-pt-3.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 3.01}

(1) An applicant for a regular license to practice as a physical therapist may apply to the board for a temporary license to practice as a physical therapist under supervision. An applicant for a temporary license under this subsection shall meet all of the following requirements:

(a) The applicant has not previously been licensed or granted a compact privilege to practice in this state as a physical therapist.

(b) The applicant is a graduate of an approved school of physical therapy.

(c) The applicant has applied to take the national physical therapist examination and is awaiting results.

(d) The applicant is not required to take an oral examination under s. PT 2.01 (1).

(1g) An applicant for a regular license to practice as a physical therapist assistant may apply to the board for a temporary license to practice as a physical therapist assistant under supervision. An applicant for a temporary license under this subdivision shall meet all of the following requirements:

(a) The applicant has not previously been licensed or granted a compact privilege to practice in this state as a physical therapist assistant.

(b) The applicant is a graduate of an approved physical therapist assistant educational program.

(c) The applicant has applied to take the national physical therapist assistant examination and is awaiting results.

(d) The applicant is not required to take an oral examination under s. PT 2.01 (1).

(1r) The applications and required documents for a regular license and for a temporary license may be reviewed by 2 members of the board, and upon the finding by the 2 members that the applicant is qualified for admission to examination for a regular license, the board, acting through the 2 members, may issue a temporary license to practice under supervision.

(2) The required fees specified in s. 440.05 (6), Stats., shall accompany the application for a temporary license to practice under supervision.

Note: Application forms are available from the department of safety and professional services’ website at www.dsps.wi.gov.

(3) The holder of a temporary license to practice physical therapy under supervision may practice physical therapy, provided the entire practice is under the direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a physical therapist.

(4) The holder of a temporary license to practice as a physical therapist assistant under supervision may provide physical therapy in a manner consistent with the physical therapist assistant’s education, training and experience, provided the entire practice is under the direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a physical therapist.

(5) The duration of a temporary license to practice physical therapy under supervision granted under this section shall be for a period of 3 months or until the holder receives failing examination results, whichever is sooner, unless the board grants an extension of the temporary license. A temporary license may be renewed for a period of 3 months, and may be renewed a second time for a period of 3 months for reasons of hardship. Practice under a temporary license may not exceed 9 months total duration.

(6) A physical therapist providing supervision under sub. (3) or (4) may supervise no more than a combined total of 4 physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who hold temporary licenses. This number shall be reduced by the number of physical therapist assistants and unlicensed personnel being supervised by the physical therapist under ss. PT 5.01 and 5.02 (2) (k).

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; r. and recr. (4), Register, September, 1996, No. 489, eff. 10-1-96; am. (2), Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; r. (5), Register, April, 2000, No. 532, eff. 5-1-00; CR 03-020: am. (1) and (3), renum. (4) to be (5) and am., cr. (6) and (7) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 08-049: am. (5) Register November 2008 No. 635, eff. 12-1-08; CR 12-002: am. (1), (4), r. (7) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 20-056: renum. (1) to (1) (intro.) and am., cr. (1) (a) to (d), (1g), (1r), am. (3) to (6) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; correction in (1) (intro.) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 7., Stats., Register June 2021 No. 786.

Chapter PT 4 LOCUM TENENS LICENSE

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 4.001 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-4.001 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 4.001}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2), 448.53 (2), and (3), Stats., and govern locum tenens licenses.

History

• CR 12-002: cr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 4.01 Locum tenens license {#sec-pt-4.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 4.01}

(1) A person who holds a valid license to practice physical therapy issued by another licensing jurisdiction of the United States may apply to the board for a locum tenens license to practice physical therapy and shall submit to the board all of the following:

(a) A completed and verified application form.

Note: Application forms are available from the department of safety and professional services’ website at www.dsps.wi.gov.

(b) A letter of recommendation from a physician or supervisor or present employer stating the applicant’s professional capabilities.

(c) A verified photostatic copy of a license to practice physical therapy issued to the applicant by another licensing jurisdiction of the United States.

(d) A letter requesting the applicant’s services from a physical therapist licensed under s. 448.53 (1), Stats., an individual who holds a physical therapist compact privilege granted by the board, or an organization or facility located in this state.

(e) The required fees specified in s. 440.05 (6), Stats.

(2) The application and documentary evidence submitted by the applicant shall be reviewed by a member of the board, and upon the finding of the member that the applicant is qualified, the board, acting through the member, may issue a locum tenens license to practice physical therapy to the applicant.

(3) The holder of a locum tenens license to practice physical therapy may practice physical therapy as defined in s. 448.56 (1), Stats., providing the practice is confined to the geographical area for which the license is issued.

(4) Except as otherwise ordered by the board, a locum tenens license to practice physical therapy shall expire 90 days from the date of its issuance. For cause shown to its satisfaction, the board may issue a locum tenens license for a period not to exceed 12 months. The locum tenens license is not renewable.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am. (1) (e), Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98.; r. (1) (d), Register, April, 2000, No. 532, eff. 5-1-00; CR 03-020: cr. (1) (d) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: am. (4) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 20-056: am. (1) (d) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Chapter PT 5 PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS, UNLICENSED PERSONNEL, AND STUDENTS

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 5.001 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-5.001 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 5.001}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2), 448.52 (1m) (c), and 448.56 (6), Stats., and govern the practice and supervision of physical therapist assistants and the supervision of unlicensed personnel, physical therapist students, and physical therapist assistant students.

History

• CR 12-002: cr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 20-055: am. Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 5.01 Practice and supervision of physical therapist assistants {#sec-pt-5.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 5.01}

(1) A physical therapist assistant shall assist a physical therapist in the practice of physical therapy under the general supervision of a physical therapist.

(2) In providing general supervision, the physical therapist shall do all of the following:

(a) Have primary responsibility for physical therapy care rendered by the physical therapist assistant.

(b) Have direct face-to-face contact with the physical therapist assistant at least every 14 calendar days. Electronic face-to-face communications may be used to fulfill this requirement. Audio-only telephone, email messages, text messages, facsimile transmission, mail or parcel service are not considered acceptable electronic communications.

(c) Remain accessible to telecommunications in the interim between direct contacts while the physical therapist assistant is providing patient care.

(d) Establish a written policy and procedure for written and oral communication. This policy and procedure shall include a specific description of the supervisory activities undertaken for the physical therapist assistant as well as a description of the manner by which the physical therapist shall manage all aspects of patient care. The amount of supervision shall be appropriate to the setting and the services provided.

(e) Provide initial patient examination, evaluation and interpretation of referrals and create the initial patient record for every patient the physical therapist treats.

(f) Develop and revise as appropriate a written patient treatment plan and program.

(g) Delegate appropriate portions of the treatment plan and program to the physical therapist assistant consistent with the physical therapist assistant’s education, training and experience.

(h) Provide assessment and reevaluation of each patient at a minimum of one time per calendar month or every tenth treatment day, whichever is sooner, and adjust the treatment plan as appropriate. The assessment and reevaluation may be conducted via telehealth if all of the following conditions are met:

1. The supervising physical therapist, using professional judgment, determines and documents the clinical reasons for utilizing telehealth as an appropriate modality based on the patient’s condition and circumstances.

2. The patient or the patient’s legal guardian has provided informed consent that is specific to the use of telehealth for these services.

3. The supervising physical therapist provides the telehealth assessment and reevaluation in real time allowing for interactive communication between the physical therapist and the patient.

4. The supervising physical therapist determines that any person assisting the patient at the remote location during a telehealth session is capable of safely providing the necessary assistance.

(i) Coordinate discharge plan decisions and the final assessment with the physical therapist assistant.

(j) Limit the number of physical therapist assistants practicing under general supervision to a number appropriate to the setting in which physical therapy is administered, to ensure that all patients under the care of the physical therapist receive services that are consistent with accepted standards of care and consistent with all other requirements under this chapter. No physical therapist may at any time supervise more than 2 physical therapist assistants full-time equivalents practicing under general supervision.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 20-055: am. (1) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; CR 20-056: am. (1) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; merger of (1) treatments by CR 20-055 and 20-056 made under s. 13.92 (4) (bm), Stats., Register June 2021 No. 786; EmR2128: emerg. am. (2) (b), (h), eff. 11-24-21; CR 21-079: am. (2) (b), (h) Register June 2022 No. 798, eff. 7-1-22; CR 25-089: renum. (2) (h) to (2) (h) (intro.) and am., cr. (2) (h) 1. to 4. Register June 2026 No. 846, eff. 7-1-26.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 5.02 Supervision of unlicensed personnel {#sec-pt-5.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 5.02}

(1) A physical therapist shall provide direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of unlicensed personnel at all times. The physical therapist may not direct unlicensed personnel to perform tasks that require the decision-making or problem-solving skills of a physical therapist, including patient examination, evaluation, diagnosis, or determination of therapeutic intervention.

(2) In providing direct, immediate, on-premises supervision, the physical therapist shall do all of the following:

(a) Retain full professional responsibility for patient related tasks performed.

(b) Be available at all times for direction and supervision with the person performing related tasks.

(c) Evaluate the effectiveness of patient related tasks performed by those under direct supervision by assessing persons for whom tasks have been performed prior to and following performance of the tasks.

(d) Routinely evaluate the effectiveness of patient related tasks performed by those under direct supervision by observing and monitoring persons receiving such tasks.

(e) Determine the competence of personnel to perform assigned tasks based upon education, training, and experience.

(f) Verify the competence of unlicensed personnel with written documentation of continued competence in the assigned tasks.

(g) Perform initial patient examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis, interpret referrals, develop and revise as appropriate a written patient treatment plan and program for each patient, and create and maintain a patient record for every patient the physical therapist treats.

(h) Provide interpretation of objective tests, measurements, and other data in developing and revising a physical therapy diagnosis, assessment, and treatment plan.

(i) Direct unlicensed personnel to provide appropriate patient related tasks consistent with the education, training, and experience of the person supervised. Direction should list specific patient related tasks, including dosage, magnitude, repetitions, settings, length of time, and any other parameters necessary for the performance of the patient related tasks.

(j) Limit the number of unlicensed personnel providing patient related tasks under direct supervision to a number appropriate to the setting in which physical therapy is administered, to ensure that all patients under the care of the physical therapist receive services that are consistent with accepted standards of care and consistent with all other requirements under this chapter.

(k) The total number of physical therapist assistants providing physical therapy services and unlicensed personnel performing patient related tasks under supervision may not exceed a combined total of 4. This number shall be reduced by the number of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants holding temporary licenses who are being supervised under s. PT 3.01 (6).

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 20-055: am. (1), (2) (intro.), (e), (g), (h) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; CR 20-056: am. (1), (2) (intro.) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; merger of (1), (2) (intro.) treatments by CR 20-055 and 20-056 made under s. 13.92 (4) (bm), Stats., Register June 2021 No. 786.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 5.03 Supervision of students {#sec-pt-5.03 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 5.03}

(1) Except as provided under sub. (2), a physical therapist shall provide direct, immediate, on-premises supervision of a student at all times.

(2)

(a) A physical therapist providing supervision of a physical therapist assistant student under sub. (1) may delegate that supervision to a physical therapist assistant. The delegating physical therapist shall, as required under s. PT 5.01, provide general supervision of the physical therapist assistant supervising the physical therapist assistant student.

(b) A physical therapist assistant supervising a physical therapist assistant student under par. (a) shall provide face-to-face contact with the student, as necessary, and be physically present in the same building when a service is performed by the student.

(3) A physical therapist supervising a student under sub. (1) shall retain full professional responsibility for all physical therapy procedures and related tasks performed by the student, and shall delegate treatment plans and programs to the student in a manner consistent with the student’s education, training, and experience.

(4) A physical therapist delegating supervision of a physical therapist assistant student to a physical therapist assistant under sub. (2) shall retain full professional responsibility for all physical therapy procedures and related tasks performed by the physical therapist assistant and by the physical therapist assistant student, and shall delegate treatment plans and programs to the physical therapist assistant student in a manner consistent with the student’s education, training, and experience.

History

• CR 20-055: cr. Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Chapter PT 6 REFERRALS

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 6.001 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-6.001 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 6.001}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2), and 448.56 (1m) (b), Stats., and govern referrals.

History

• CR 12-002: cr. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 6.01 Referrals {#sec-pt-6.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 6.01}

(1) In addition to the services excepted from written referral under s. 448.56, Stats., a written referral is not required to provide the following services, related to the work, home, leisure, recreational and educational environments:

(a) Conditioning.

(b) Injury prevention and application of biomechanics.

(c) Treatment of musculoskeletal injuries with the exception of acute fractures or soft tissue avulsions.

(2) A physical therapist providing physical therapy services pursuant to a referral under s. 448.56 (1), Stats., shall communicate with the referring physician, chiropractor, dentist or podiatrist as necessary to ensure continuity of care.

(3) A physical therapist providing physical therapy services to a patient shall refer the patient to a physician, chiropractor, dentist, podiatrist or other health care practitioner under s. 448.56 (1m), Stats., to receive required health care services which are beyond the scope of practice of physical therapy.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am. Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 03-020: renum. to be (1) (intro.) and am., cr. (1) (a) to (c), (2) and (3) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04.

Chapter PT 7 UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 7.01 Authority and intent {#sec-pt-7.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 7.01}

(1) The definitions of this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.085 (5) (b) and 448.527, Stats., to establish the standards of ethical conduct by physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.

(2) Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are guided by values of accountability, altruism, compassion, caring, excellence, integrity, professional duty, and responsibility. As representatives of the physical therapy profession, they are obligated to empower, educate, and enable patients to facilitate greater independence, health, wellness, and enhanced quality of life. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants must therefore act, at all times, with honesty, compliance with the law, reasonable judgment, competence, and respect for the patient’s dignity.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; CR 03-020: am. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 13-007: renum. to (1) and am., cr. (2) Register November 2013 No. 695, eff. 12-1-13.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 7.02 Definitions {#sec-pt-7.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 7.02}

For the purposes of these rules:

(1) “Negligence in the practice of physical therapy” means an act performed without the care and skill of a reasonable physical therapist or physical therapist assistant who performs the act in question, whether or not the negligent care results in actual harm to the patient.

(2) “Patient health care record” has the meaning given in s. 146.81 (4), Stats.

(3) “Sexual contact” has the meaning given in s. 948.01 (5), Stats.

(4) “Sexually explicit conduct” has the meaning given in s. 948.01 (7), Stats.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; correction in (18) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 7., Stats.; Register, June, 1998, No. 510; CR 03-020: am. (1), cr. (19), (20) and (21) Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 13-007: r. and recr. Register November 2013 No. 695, eff. 12-1-13.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 7.025 Unprofessional conduct {#sec-pt-7.025 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 7.025}

The term “unprofessional conduct” is defined to include violating, aiding, abetting, or conspiring to engage in any of the following:

(1) Violating s. 448.57 (2) (a) to (g), Stats., other provision of chs. 440 and 448, Stats., or any provision of a board order.

(2) Any physical therapist committing any act that constitutes a violation of the “Code of Ethics,” effective July 1, 2010, as approved by the American Physical Therapy Association and herein incorporated by reference.

Note: Copies of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Code of Ethics may be obtained electronically at www.apta.org/ethics.

(3) Any physical therapist assistant committing any act that constitutes a violation of the “Standards of Ethical Conduct,” effective July 1, 2010, as approved by the American Physical Therapy Association and herein incorporated by reference.

Note: Copies of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Standards of Ethical Conduct may be obtained electronically at www.apta.org/ethics.

(4) Engaging in fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation in applying for or procuring a license or compact privilege to practice physical therapy, in connection with applying for or procuring periodic renewal of a license, or in otherwise maintaining licensure or a compact privilege.

(5) Failing to complete continuing competence requirements within the time period established by law.

(6) Permitting or assisting any person to perform acts constituting the practice of physical therapy without sufficient qualifications, necessary credentials, adequate informed consent, or adequate supervision as required under chs. PT 3 and 5. The physical therapist is responsible for determining whether general, direct, or one-on-one supervision is necessary to protect the patient from unacceptable risk of harm. The physical therapist retains responsibility for delegated or supervised acts, unless the board determines that the delegate knowingly and willfully violated the supervisor’s direction or instruction.

(7) Engaging in any act of fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation, including acts of omission, to the board or any person acting on the board’s behalf, including Department of Safety and Professional Services personnel.

(8) Any practice or conduct that falls below the standard of minimal competence within the profession that results in unacceptable risk of harm to the patient, regardless of whether injury results.

(9) Negligence in the practice of physical therapy, regardless of whether injury results.

(10) Practicing as a physical therapist or working as a physical therapist assistant when physical or mental abilities are impaired by the use of controlled substances or other habit-forming drugs, chemicals or alcohol, or by other causes.

(11) Practicing physical therapy with a mental or physical condition that impairs the ability of the licensee to practice within the standard of minimal competence or without exposing the patient to an unacceptable risk of harm.

(12) Performing any act constituting the practice of physical therapy on any patient without the patient’s informed consent or after the patient has withdrawn informed consent, whether verbally or in writing, or either of the following:

(a) Failure to document informed consent.

(b) Failure to inform the patient that any act of physical therapy may or will be performed by unlicensed personnel.

(13) Practicing beyond the scope of any professional credential issued by the board or any other state or federal agency.

(14) Knowingly, negligently, or recklessly making any statement, written or oral, in the course of the practice of physical therapy or as a physical therapist assistant, which is likely to deceive, defraud, mislead, or create an unacceptable risk of harm to the patient or the public or both.

(15) Divulging a privileged communication or other confidential patient health care information except as required or permitted by state or federal law.

(16) Engaging in sexually explicit conduct, sexual contact, exposure, gratification, or other sexual behavior with or in the presence of a patient, a patient’s immediate family member, or a person responsible for the patient’s welfare. For the purposes of this subsection all of the following may apply:

(a) Sexual motivation may be determined from the totality of the circumstances and is presumed when the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant has contact with a patient’s intimate parts without legitimate professional justification for doing so.

(b) An adult receiving treatment shall continue to be a patient for 6 months after the termination of professional services.

(c) If the person receiving treatment is a minor, the person shall continue to be a patient for the purposes of this paragraph for 2 years after termination of services or for 2 years after the patient reaches the age of majority, whichever is longer.

(d) It is a violation of this paragraph for a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant to engage in any sexual contact or conduct with or in the presence of a patient or former patient who lacks the ability to consent for any reason, including age, medication, or psychological or cognitive disability.

(17) Illegal or unethical business practices, including either of the following:

(a) Fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation in obtaining or attempting to obtain any fee or third-party reimbursement.

(b) Engaging in uninvited, in–person solicitation of actual or potential patients who, because of their particular circumstances, are vulnerable to undue influence.

(18) Providing treatment intervention unwarranted by the condition of the patient or continuing treatment beyond the point of reasonable benefit.

(19) Violation or conviction of any federal or state law, including criminal law, which is therefore substantially related to the practice of physical therapy and which bars any of the following conduct:

(a) Theft or fraud.

(b) Violence.

(c) Sexual contact with a patient, patient’s guardian or family member, or any act performed in the presence of a patient, patient’s guardian or family member, for the purposes of sexual gratification.

(d) Victimization of children, elderly, or other vulnerable person.

(e) Any crime occurring in the course of the practice of physical therapy by a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant, or in any place in which physical therapy is practiced.

(f) Conclusive evidence of a violation of this subsection shall be a certified copy of any document demonstrating the entry of a guilty plea, nolo contendere plea, alford plea, or entrance into a deferred prosecution agreement, with or without being expunged, pertaining to a crime substantially related to the practice of physical therapy.

(20) Violation or conviction of any federal or state law or rule that is substantially related to the practice of physical therapy. For the purposes of this subsection the following may apply:

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law, a certified copy of a relevant decision by a state or federal court or agency charged with making legal determinations relevant to this paragraph is conclusive evidence of its findings of facts and conclusions of law.

(b) Under this paragraph, the department has the burden of proving that the act is substantially related to the practice of physical therapy.

(21) Failure to establish and maintain accurate and timely patient health care records as required by law and professional standards. Patient health care records are presumed to be untimely if not completed and signed within 60 days of the date of service.

(22) Failure to timely transfer patient health records to any person or practitioner authorized by law to procure the patient health care records. Failure to comply with any lawful request for patient health care records within 30 days of receipt of the request is presumed to be a violation of this subsection.

(23) Having any credential pertaining to the practice of physical therapy result in adverse action by any agency of this or another state, or by any agency or authority within the federal government, which results in any disciplinary action, including limitation, restriction, suspension, revocation, or any other disciplinary action. This paragraph applies whether the adverse action results in temporary or permanent limitation, restriction, suspension, revocation, or disciplinary action. This paragraph applies whether or not the adverse action is accompanied by findings of negligence or unprofessional conduct.

(24) Failure, within 30 days, to report to the board any adverse action, whether final or temporary, taken against the licensee’s authority to practice physical therapy as follows:

(a) Any adverse action by another licensing or credentialing jurisdiction concerned with the practice of physical therapy.

(b) Any adverse action by any division of the state or federal government that results in limitation or loss of authority to perform any act constituting the practice of physical therapy or as a physical therapist assistant.

(25) Failure, within 30 days, to report to the board any voluntary agreement to limit, restrict, or relinquish the practice of physical therapy or as a physical therapist assistant entered into with any court or agency of any state or federal government.

(26) Failure to report to the board any incident in which the licensee has direct knowledge of reasonable cause to suspect that a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant has committed any unprofessional, incompetent, or illegal act in violation of state or federal statute, administrative rule, or orders of the board. Reports shall be made within the time necessary to protect patients from further unacceptable risk of harm, but no more than 30 days after the required reporter obtained knowledge of the act.

History

• CR 13-007: cr. Register November 2013 No. 695, eff. 12-1-13; corrections in (6), (23) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 6., Stats., Register November 2013 No. 695; CR 20-055: am. (6) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21; CR 20-056: am. (4) Register June 2021 No. 786, eff. 7-1-21.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 7.03 Complaints {#sec-pt-7.03 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 7.03}

Procedures and requirements for filing complaints with the board are set forth in ch. SPS 2.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; correction made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 7., Stats., Register November 2011 No. 671.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 7.04 Self-audits {#sec-pt-7.04 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 7.04}

The board shall biennially review and evaluate its performance in carrying out its responsibilities under this chapter and in other areas over which the board exercises its independent authority, as defined in s. 440.035, Stats.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04.

Chapter PT 8 BIENNIAL LICENSE RENEWAL

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 8.01 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-8.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 8.01}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2) and 448.53, Stats., and govern biennial renewal of licensees of the board.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am., Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 03-020: am. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 8.02 Renewal required; method of renewal {#sec-pt-8.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 8.02}

Each licensee shall renew his or her license biennially with the department. Each licensee shall complete a renewal application form and return it with the required fee to the department prior to the next succeeding March 1.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; am., Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 13-007: am. Register November 2013 No. 695, eff. 12-1-13; CR 15-027: am. Register January 2016 No. 721, eff. 2-1-16.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 8.05 Requirements for late renewal and reinstatement {#sec-pt-8.05 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 8.05}

A license shall expire if it is not renewed by March 1 of each odd-numbered year, except for temporary licenses granted pursuant to ch. PT 3. A licensee who allows their license to expire may apply to the board to renew or reinstate their license by completing one of the following:

(1) Renewal before 5 years. If the licensee applies for renewal of the license less than 5 years after its expiration, the license shall be renewed upon payment of the renewal fee and completion of the continuing education requirements specified in ch. PT 9.

(2) Renewal after 5 years or more. If the licensee applies for renewal of the license more than 5 years after its expiration, the board shall make inquiry as it finds necessary to determine whether the applicant is competent to practice under the license in this state, and shall impose any reasonable conditions on renewal of the license, including oral examination, as the board deems appropriate. All applicants under this paragraph shall be required to pass the open book examination on statutes and rules, which is the same examination given to initial applicants. This section does not apply to licensees who have unmet disciplinary requirements or whose licenses have been surrendered or revoked.

(3) Reinstatement. A licensee who has unmet disciplinary requirements and failed to renew within 5 years of the renewal date or whose license has been surrendered or revoked, may apply to have the license reinstated in accordance with all of the following:

(a) Evidence of the completion of the requirements under s. PT 8.05 (2).

(b) Evidence of completion of disciplinary requirements, if applicable.

(c) Evidence of rehabilitation or change in circumstances warranting reinstatement of the license.

History

• Cr. Register, September, 1995, No. 477, eff. 10-1-95; r. (1), renum. (2) (intro.), (a) and (b) to be (intro.), (1) and (2), Register, June, 1998, No. 510, eff. 7-1-98; CR 12-002: am. (intro.) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 15-027: r. and recr. Register January 2016 No. 721, eff. 2-1-16.

Chapter PT 9 CONTINUING EDUCATION

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 9.01 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-9.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 9.01}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b), 227.11 (2) and 448.55 (3), Stats., and govern required biennial continuing education of licensees of the board.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 12-002: am. Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 9.02 Definitions {#sec-pt-9.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 9.02}

In this chapter:

(1) “Contact hour” means not less than 50 minutes a licensee spends in actual attendance at or completion of acceptable continuing education.

(2) “Continuing education” means planned, organized learning activities designed to maintain, improve, or expand a licensee’s knowledge and skills relevant to the enhancement of practice, education, or theory development to improve the safety and welfare of the public.

(4) “Licensee” means a person licensed to practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in this state.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 08-049: r. and recr. (1), r. (3) Register November 2008 No. 635, eff. 12-1-08; CR 12-002: cr. (1m), (5) Register August 2012 No. 680, eff. 9-1-12; CR 17-091: r. (1m), (5) Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 9.03 Continuing education requirements {#sec-pt-9.03 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 9.03}

(1) Unless granted a postponement or waiver under sub. (8), every physical therapist shall complete at least 30 hours of board-approved continuing education in each biennial registration period, as specified in s. 448.55 (3), Stats. Four of the required 30 hours shall be in the area of ethics, jurisprudence, or both.

(2) Unless granted a postponement or waiver under sub. (8), every physical therapist assistant shall complete at least 20 hours of board-approved continuing education in each biennial registration period, as specified in s. 448.55 (3), Stats. Four of the required 20 hours shall be in the area of ethics, jurisprudence, or both.

(3) Continuing education hours may apply only to the registration period in which the hours are acquired. If a license has lapsed, the board may grant permission to apply continuing education hours acquired after lapse of the license to a previous biennial period of licensure during which required continuing education was not acquired. In no case may continuing education hours be applied to more than one biennial period.

(4) Unless granted a postponement or waiver under sub. (8), a licensee who fails to meet the continuing education requirements by the renewal deadline shall cease and desist from practice.

(5) During the time between initial licensure and commencement of a full 2-year licensure period new licensees shall not be required to meet continuing education requirements.

(6) Applicants from other states applying for a license to practice as a physical therapist under s. 448.53 (3), Stats., shall submit proof of completion of at least 30 hours of continuing education approved by the board within 2 years prior to application.

(7) Applicants from other states applying for a license to practice as a physical therapist assistant under s. 448.53 (3), Stats., shall submit proof of completion of at least 20 hours of continuing education approved by the board within 2 years prior to application.

(8) A licensee may apply to the board for a postponement or waiver of the requirements of this section on grounds of prolonged illness or disability, or on other grounds constituting extreme hardship. The board shall consider each application individually on its merits, and the board may grant a postponement, partial waiver or total waiver as deemed appropriate.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 08-049: am. (1) and (2) Register November 2008 No. 635, eff. 12-1-08; CR 17-091: am. (1), (2) Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 9.04 Standards for approval {#sec-pt-9.04 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 9.04}

(1) To be approved for credit, a continuing education program shall meet all of the following criteria:

(a) The program constitutes an organized program of learning that contributes directly to the licensee’s knowledge, skill, behavior, and abilities related to the practice of physical therapy.

(b) The program pertains to subject matters which integrally relate to the practice of the profession.

(c) The program is conducted by individuals who have specialized education, training or experience by reason of which the individuals should be considered qualified concerning the subject matter of the activity or program.

(d) The program fulfills pre-established goals and objectives.

(e) The program provides proof of attendance by licensees.

(2) An activity described in Table PT 9.04 may qualify for continuing education hours. To be approved for credit, the activity shall integrally relate to the practice of the profession.

(3) None of the following activities qualify for continuing education hours:

(a) Meetings for the purpose of policy decisions.

(b) Non-educational meetings at annual association, chapter or organization meetings.

(c) Entertainment or recreational meetings or activities.

(d) Visiting exhibits.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 08-049: renum. (2) (intro.) to be (2) and am., r. (2) (a) to (c), Table 9.04-1 and Table 9.04-2, cr. Table 9.04 Register November 2008 No. 635, eff. 12-1-08; CR 17-091: am. (1) (a), (2), Table 9.04 lines (a), (h), (i), (j), (L), (n), (p), (r), (t), (3) (intro.) Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 9.05 Certification and audit of continuing education requirements {#sec-pt-9.05 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 9.05}

Applicants for renewal shall certify completion of required continuing education hours. The board shall audit any licensee who is under investigation by the board for alleged misconduct.

History

• CR 03-020: cr. Register April 2004 No. 580, eff. 5-1-04; CR 17-091: am. Register June 2018 No. 750, eff. 7-1-18.

Chapter PT 10 ORDERING X-RAYS

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 10.01 Authority and purpose {#sec-pt-10.01 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 10.01}

The rules in this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.08 (5) (b) and 448.56 (7) (a), Stats., and specify the qualifications a physical therapist must satisfy to order x-rays.

Note: See also s. 448.56 (7) (b), Stats., relating to coordination of care with the patient’s primary care physician or an appropriate health care practitioner.

History

• CR 16-089: cr. Register July 2017 No. 739, eff. 8-1-17.

Wis. Admin. Code § PT 10.02 Qualifications {#sec-pt-10.02 omnilex-key=us-wi-regs-official--agency-pt--PT 10.02}

A physical therapist may order x-rays to be performed by qualified persons if the physical therapist satisfies one of the following qualifications:

(1) The physical therapist holds an entry level clinical doctorate or transitional clinical doctoral degree in physical therapy from a college or university that has a physical therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education or a successor organization.

(2) The physical therapist has been issued a specialty certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. The clinical practice hours leading to the specialty certification shall include training in the practice of ordering x-rays. A specialty certification issued by a national organization other than the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties satisfies the qualification under this subsection if the certification program meets the criteria under sub. (4) (a) to (f).

(3) The physical therapist has completed a residency or fellowship accredited by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education. The residency or fellowship shall include training in the practice of ordering x-rays. Completion of a residency or fellowship accredited by a national organization other than the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education satisfies the qualification under this subsection if the residency or fellowship program meets the criteria under sub. (4) (a) to (f).

(4) The physical therapist has successfully completed a formal x-ray ordering training program meeting all of the following criteria:

(a) The program constitutes an organized program of learning which contributes directly to the professional competency of a licensee to order x-rays.

(b) The program pertains to subject matters which integrally relate to the practice of ordering x-rays.

(c) The program is conducted by individuals who have specialized education, training, or experience by reason of which the individuals should be considered qualified concerning the practice of ordering x-rays. This shall include demonstrated physician involvement in the development or presentation of the program.

(d) The program fulfills pre-established goals and objectives.

(e) The program provides proof of attendance by licensees.

(f) The program includes a final examination or other assessment of a licensees’ competency to order x-rays.

History

• CR 16-089: cr. Register July 2017 No. 739, eff. 8-1-17.