What action should a PT take if a patient is evaluated without a referral?

When a physical therapist (PT) evaluates a patient without a referral, it is crucial for the PT to ensure that proper communication with the healthcare system is maintained. Notifying the appropriate medical provider within five business days is important because it aligns with the legal and ethical framework governing physical therapy practice. This action helps in maintaining continuity of care, ensuring that the patient's primary care physician or other relevant providers are aware of the evaluation and findings.

By doing so, the PT informs those providers about the services rendered, which can foster better collaboration regarding the patient’s overall treatment plan. This also adheres to the state regulations that may require PTs to communicate evaluations conducted without referrals, helping to protect the patient's safety and well-being.

In contrast, merely documenting the evaluation does not fulfill the obligation to inform the healthcare system about the patient's status, which could lead to gaps in communication. Similarly, notifying the family or referring to a specialist could be helpful actions, but they do not substitute for the requirement to inform the appropriate medical provider within the specified timeframe.