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SB 2153

PHYSICAL THERAPY TELEHEALTH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Cristina Castro and 2 co-sponsors

Illinois law now permits physical therapists to deliver telehealth services, expanding remote access to therapy consultations and treatments effective immediately.

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Bill Summary · SB 2153

Legislative bill overview

SB 2153 authorizes physical therapists in Illinois to provide telehealth services to patients, expanding access to remote physical therapy treatment. The bill removes barriers to virtual consultations, evaluations, and certain therapeutic interventions that were previously restricted to in-person care. It became effective immediately upon the governor's approval on August 15, 2025.

Why is this important

This legislation increases healthcare accessibility for patients in rural areas, those with mobility limitations, and individuals with transportation challenges. It also reduces costs for patients and providers while potentially improving treatment compliance through more convenient access to physical therapy services.

Potential points of contention

  • Quality and safety concerns: Physical therapy often requires hands-on assessment and treatment; telehealth limitations for palpation, manual therapy, and precise movement evaluation could compromise care quality in some cases
  • Licensure and state boundaries: Unclear regulations about whether Illinois-licensed physical therapists can treat out-of-state patients, or vice versa, which could create legal ambiguities
  • Insurance reimbursement gaps: Not all insurance plans cover telehealth physical therapy at the same rates as in-person visits, potentially creating inequitable access based on coverage type
  • Initial evaluation requirements: Whether patients can be evaluated entirely remotely or require at least one in-person assessment before telehealth treatment commences remains potentially undefined

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

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