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HB 2583

physical therapists; imaging; laboratory tests

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Selina Bliss

Arizona HB 2583 permits licensed physical therapists to independently order and interpret imaging and laboratory tests without physician referral, expanding scope of practice.

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 2583

Legislative bill overview

HB 2583 expands the scope of practice for licensed physical therapists in Arizona by authorizing them to order and interpret certain imaging studies and laboratory tests without requiring a physician referral or supervision. This legislative change allows physical therapists to operate more independently in diagnostic decision-making within their clinical domains.

Why is this important

This bill affects healthcare access and costs by potentially reducing the need for physician consultations before physical therapy patients receive imaging or lab work, which could streamline care pathways and reduce wait times. It also represents a significant shift in professional autonomy and responsibility for physical therapists, who now bear direct accountability for ordering decisions that were previously physician-gatekept. The change impacts insurance reimbursement structures, patient choice in provider selection, and the traditional hierarchical relationships between physicians and allied health professionals.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient safety and oversight: Physicians traditionally order imaging and labs based on comprehensive medical history; removing this layer raises questions about whether physical therapists have sufficient diagnostic training to avoid unnecessary or inappropriate testing
  • Professional scope creep: Medical organizations may argue this blurs professional boundaries and represents encroachment on physician expertise, potentially leading to competitive turf wars
  • Insurance and liability implications: Unclear how insurers will cover these independently-ordered tests and whether malpractice liability shifts entirely to physical therapists for ordering decisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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