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HB 1231

Physical Therapists Perform Sports Physicals

2026 Regular Session

Colorado bill would allow licensed physical therapists to independently perform and medically clear athletes for sports participation, expanding access but raising physician scope-of-practice concerns.

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Bill Summary · HB 1231

Legislative bill overview

HB 1231 would authorize licensed physical therapists to independently perform and clear athletes for sports participation through sports physicals. Currently in Colorado, these physicals typically require a physician or other credentialed medical provider. The bill aims to expand the pool of qualified professionals who can conduct these evaluations.

Why is this important

Sports physicals are standard requirements for youth and adult athletic participation, and expanding who can perform them could reduce wait times and increase accessibility, particularly in rural or underserved areas. However, this also touches on scope-of-practice regulations and healthcare quality assurance—determining whether physical therapists have sufficient training to identify cardiac conditions, neurological issues, and other serious health concerns that might contraindicate athletic participation.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Physicians may argue that medical diagnosis and clearance decisions require full MD/DO training, while PT advocates counter that sports physicals are standardized, routine assessments within their expertise
  • Liability and safety standards: Questions about whether physical therapists' education adequately covers identification of serious conditions (cardiac arrhythmias, uncontrolled hypertension, seizure disorders) that could cause sudden cardiac death or injury during sports
  • Insurance and reimbursement: Changes to which providers insurers will reimburse for sports physicals, potentially affecting both patients' access and healthcare provider revenue streams

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

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