When is a physical therapist required to be employed or consulted?

A physical therapist is required to be employed or consulted specifically when a physician orders physical therapy for a resident. This stipulation is rooted in healthcare regulations and standards of practice, which emphasize that interventions involving physical therapy should be based on medical necessity and a physician's evaluation.

The involvement of a physical therapist ensures that the treatment aligns with the individual needs of the resident, as determined by a qualified medical professional. This order initiates the therapeutic process, providing residents with appropriate care tailored to their specific conditions or rehabilitation goals.

While skilled nursing facilities might often have physical therapists on staff due to the nature of the care provided, this requirement hinges on the physician's directive, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare for effective patient outcomes.