Section 81. Requirements for direct access certification

A. An applicant for certification to provide services to patients without a referral as specified in § 54.1-3482.1 of the Code of Virginia shall hold an active, unrestricted license as a physical therapist in Virginia and shall submit evidence satisfactory to the board that he has one of the following qualifications:

1. Completion of a transitional program in physical therapy as recognized by the board; or

2. At least three years of postlicensure, active practice with evidence of 15 contact hours of continuing education in medical screening or differential diagnosis, including passage of a postcourse examination. The required continuing education shall be offered by a provider or sponsor listed as approved by the board in 18VAC112-20-131 and may be face-to-face or online education courses.

B. In addition to the evidence of qualification for certification required in subsection A of this section, an applicant seeking direct access certification shall submit to the board:

1. A completed application as provided by the board;

2. Any additional documentation as may be required by the board to determine eligibility of the applicant; and

3. The application fee as specified in 18VAC112-20-27.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 25, Issue 18, eff. June 10, 2009; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 03, eff. November 4, 2015.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-3482.1 of the Code of Virginia.