West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 16 - Physical Therapy
West Virginia Code of State Rules – Agency 16: Physical Therapy
Overview:
Agency 16 of the West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) governs the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy. This board regulates the licensure, practice, standards, and discipline of physical therapists (PTs), physical therapist assistants (PTAs), and related professionals in the state. These rules are authorized by W. Va. Code §30-20.
Key Areas Covered Under Agency 16 Rules:
The rules are organized in Title 16 of the CSR and are typically structured by series (e.g., 16-1, 16-2, etc.), each addressing a specific regulatory function. Here's a breakdown of the most relevant ones:
🔹 §16-1: Licensure of Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants
Initial Licensure:
Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program.
Passage of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
Criminal background checks.
Temporary Permits: May be issued to applicants awaiting exam results.
Reciprocity: Allows PTs and PTAs licensed in other states to apply for West Virginia licensure under specific conditions.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed biennially.
🔹 §16-2: Continuing Education
Licensed PTs and PTAs must complete continuing education (CE) for license renewal.
Typically 24 hours every two years (subject to updates).
Approved courses may include in-person seminars, online classes, or college courses.
Includes ethics or jurisprudence-related content.
🔹 §16-3: Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct
Establishes a code of professional and ethical behavior for PTs and PTAs.
Includes:
Patient confidentiality (HIPAA compliance).
Informed consent.
Professional boundaries.
Avoidance of fraud, misrepresentation, and abuse of position.
🔹 §16-4: Disciplinary Procedures
Lists grounds for disciplinary action, including:
Fraud or deceit in obtaining a license.
Substance abuse or mental incompetence.
Conviction of a felony.
Violation of practice standards or board orders.
Procedures for:
Filing complaints.
Investigations and hearings.
Suspension, revocation, fines, or probation.
🔹 §16-5: Supervision of Physical Therapist Assistants
Outlines the supervisory relationship between PTs and PTAs.
PTs must evaluate the patient and establish the treatment plan.
PTAs carry out delegated tasks under supervision.
Specifies limits on PTA autonomy and documentation responsibilities.
🔹 §16-6: Practice Without Referral (Direct Access)
Allows direct access to PT services without a physician referral, with limitations.
PTs must meet specific qualifications (e.g., certain CE requirements).
Conditions or duration of treatment may be restricted.
PT must refer the patient if signs of conditions beyond the PT scope are present.
🔹 §16-7: Telehealth and Remote Practice
May include provisions for telehealth services if enabled by recent rules.
Regulates how PTs provide care remotely, ensuring compliance with:
HIPAA standards.
State licensure.
Proper documentation and follow-up.
Legal Authority:
West Virginia Code §30-20 – Physical Therapy Practice Act.
Rules issued by the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy.
Board Website:
https://www.wvbopt.com – For applications, CEU tracking, license verification, and updated rules.
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