Consultation by Telehealth - A PT renders professional or expert opinion or advice to another PT or professional health care provider via electronic communications or computer technology from a distant location. The patient's written or verbal consent will be obtained and documented prior to such consultation. All records used or resulting from a consultation by means of telehealth are part of a patient's record and are subject to applicable confidentiality requirements.

Competence - The application of knowledge, skills, and behaviors required to function effectively, safely, ethically, and legally within the context of the patient's or client's environment.

Direct Supervision - The supervising PT is physically present on the premises and immediately available for direction and supervision, has direct contact with the patient during each visit, and completes all components of care requiring skilled therapy services. Telehealth does not meet the requirement for direct supervision.

Electronic Communications- The science and technology of communication over a distance by electronic transmission of impulses, including activities involving or using electronic communications to store, organize, send, retrieve, and convey information.

General Supervision - The supervising PT is onsite and present where services are provided or is immediately available to the PTA being supervised by means of electronic communications, maintains continual involvement in the appropriate aspects of patient care, and has primary responsibility for all patient care services rendered by a PTA.

Onsite Supervision - The supervising PT is onsite and present in the department or facility where services are provided, is immediately available to the individual being supervised, and maintains continued involvement in appropriate aspects of each treatment session in which a s/PT or a s/PTA is involved in components of care.

Physical Therapist - An individual licensed in North Dakota to practice physical therapy.

Physical Therapist Assistant - An individual licensed in North Dakota and who assists the PT in selected components of physical therapy intervention.

Physical Therapy Aide - An individual trained under the direction of a PT who performs designated and supervised routine tasks related to physical therapy.

Restricted License - A PT or PTA means a license on which the board places restrictions or conditions, or both, as to scope of practice, place of practice, supervision of practice, duration of licensed status, or type or condition of patient or client to whom the licensee may provide services.

Student - An individual who is currently engaged in the fulfillment of a physical therapy or physical therapist assistant educational program approved by the board.

Supportive Personnel - PTAs and aides working in a physical therapy setting.

Reference

N.D. Cent. Code § 43-26.1-01