54.1-3473 - Definitions. - Virginia Statutes

§ 54.1-3473. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Board" means the Board of Physical Therapy.

"Physical therapist" means any person licensed by the Board to engage inthe practice of physical therapy.

"Physical therapist assistant" means any person licensed by the Board toassist a physical therapist in the practice of physical therapy.

"Practice of physical therapy" means that branch of the healing arts thatis concerned with, upon medical referral and direction, the evaluation,testing, treatment, reeducation and rehabilitation by physical, mechanical orelectronic measures and procedures of individuals who, because of trauma,disease or birth defect, present physical and emotional disorders. Thepractice of physical therapy also includes the administration,interpretation, documentation, and evaluation of tests and measurements ofbodily functions and structures within the scope of practice of the physicaltherapist. However, the practice of physical therapy does not include themedical diagnosis of disease or injury, the use of Roentgen rays and radiumfor diagnostic or therapeutic purposes or the use of electricity for shocktherapy and surgical purposes including cauterization.

(2000, c. 688; 2001, c. 858.)