Does the physical therapist need to be on-site (in the office suite) to supervise the PTA/COTA? Can the therapist supervise and treat simultaneously?
The answer to this question varies depending on the practice setting. In the private practice setting, the therapist must provide direct supervision, which means that the PT must be in the office suite when the PTA provides services to a Medicare beneficiary. The PT can supervise the PTA and treat another patient at the same time. In all other outpatient therapy settings, general supervision (meaning the PT is available by telecommunication) is required, except where state law requires a more stringent level of supervision. In this case the state supervision requirements must be followed. The following language is included in the CMS Medicare Manuals: A physical therapist must supervise PTAs. The level and frequency of supervision differs by setting (and by state or local law). General supervision is required for PTAs in all settings except private practice (which requires direct supervision) unless state practice requirements are more stringent, in which case state or local requiremen
Related Questions
- Does the physical therapist need to be on-site (in the office suite) to supervise the PTA/COTA? Can the therapist supervise and treat simultaneously?
- What if the additional services are offered in a chiropractic office are provided by a licensed physical therapist?
- Is the State of Florida currently licensing foreign educated physical therapist assistants (PTA)?
