What are the different levels of supervision?

“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.

“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.

“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.

What are the responsibilities of PTs under the act?

A physical therapist is responsible for managing all aspects of the physical therapy care of each patient under his or her care.

Are there specific tasks that cannot be delegated?

Performance of the 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.

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

Reference

Wis. Stat. 448.56

Wis. Admin. Code Trans. PT 1.02

Wis. Admin. Code Trans. PT 5.01