Are PTAs allowed to make alterations to a physical therapy plan of care in Ohio?

In Ohio, physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are not authorized to make alterations to a physical therapy plan of care independently. The law requires that any changes to the plan must be made under the supervision and direction of a licensed physical therapist. This ensures that the patient receives consistent and safe care aligned with the therapist's overall treatment goals.

PTAs play a crucial role in the implementation of the treatment plan as designed by the physical therapist, but they lack the authority to modify it without guidance. The requirement for a physical therapist’s direction emphasizes the collaborative nature of the healthcare team in physical therapy. This structure ensures that treatment remains evidence-based and under the oversight of a licensed professional who is responsible for the overall plan of care.

Understanding this distinction is particularly important in ensuring compliance with practice regulations and protecting patient safety. Thus, the answer reflects a core principle in the legal framework governing the practice of physical therapy in Ohio.