§ 5-40-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1) "Boardâ€� means the board of physical therapy established by § 5-40-2.
(2) "Department� means the department of health.
(3) "Diagnostic imaging� means techniques used to capture an image of a body part. For
purposes of this chapter, diagnostic imaging shall include basic radiological imaging,
commonly referred to as x-ray imaging, but shall not include other methodologies such
as computer topography scan, ultrasound, bone scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
or positron emission tomography scan.
(4) "Examination� means an examination approved by the department in consultation with
the board.
(5) "License� means a license issued by the department to practice physical therapy.
(6) "Physical therapist� means an individual who is licensed by the department to practice
physical therapy.
(7) "Physical therapist assistant� means an individual who is licensed by the department
to assist in the practice of physical therapy under the supervision of a physical
therapist.
(8) "Physical therapy� means the care and services provided by or under the direction
and supervision of a physical therapist who is licensed pursuant to this chapter.
(9) "Practice of physical therapy� means:
(i)(A) Examination, evaluation, treatment, and instruction of patients/clients to detect,
assess, prevent, correct, alleviate, and limit physical disability, physical dysfunction,
and pain from injury, disease, and any other bodily conditions;
(B) Administration, interpretation, and evaluation of tests and measurements of bodily
functions and structures;
(C) The planning, administration, evaluation, and modification of treatment and instruction,
including the use of physical measures, activities, and devices, for preventive and
therapeutic purposes;
(D) The provision of consultative, educational, and other advisory services for the purpose
of reducing the incidence and severity of physical disability, physical dysfunction,
and pain; and
(E) Ordering diagnostic imaging and studies that are performed and interpreted by other
licensed healthcare professionals pursuant to the provisions of § 5-40-23.
(ii) The practice of physical therapy does not include the practice of medicine as defined
in chapter 37 of this title.
(10) "Supervision� means that a licensed physical therapist is at all times responsible
for supportive personnel and students.