(1) A person licensed under this Article as a physical therapist may evaluate and treat human ailments by physical therapy. The evaluation shall be the physical therapist’s assessment of a patient’s problem and shall include a physical therapy diagnosis. If a patient’s problem is outside the scope of physical therapy, the therapist shall consult with a person licensed to practice medicine. If a patient, at any time, requires further medical evaluation or diagnostic testing, that patient shall be referred to an authorized health care practitioner.

(2) Direct referral of a patient by an authorized health care practitioner may be by telephone, letter or in person; provided, however, if the instructions are oral, the physical therapist may administer treatment accordingly, but must make a record describing the nature of the treatment, the date administered, the name of the person receiving the treatment and the name of the referring authorized health care practitioner.

(b) Physical Therapy Assistant.

(1) A physical therapy assistant is not an independent practitioner and works under the indirect supervision of the physical therapist.

(2) A physical therapy assistant will follow the treatment program set by the physical therapist, and may progress the exercise program in conjunction with the treatment goals.

(c) Physical Therapy Technician. The physical therapy technician will carry out tasks as delegated by the physical therapist; all patient care will be under the direct supervision of the physical therapist.