The state of Arizona has revised an existing statute to expand the power of physical therapists (PTs) to order diagnostic imaging.
Approved by Gov. Katie Hobbs on May 13, Arizona House Bill (HB) 2583 broadens the types of medical imaging that PTs can order. The existing statute specified only musculoskeletal imaging consisting of plain film radiographs, but it now shows no limitations.
HB 2583 also specifies that imaging shall be performed by a healthcare practitioner who is authorized to perform the imaging and shall be interpreted by a physician who is licensed and trained in radiology interpretation. The bill noted that a physical therapist may order imaging only for a patient with whom the PT has a physical therapist-patient relationship and for whom there is a clinical need.
The American College of Radiology highlighted this bill on May 21 as part of its scope of practice series update.
