Bill Would Allow Physical Therapists to Serve as Treating Physician

A bill moving through the Montana Legislature would classify physical therapists as physicians to treat compensable workplace injuries. The Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs Committee on Wednesday voted 11-0 to pass SB 109, by Sen. Greg Hertz, R-Polson. The bill would amend the statutory definition of "treating physician" to include physical therapists. Treating physicians coordinate care for injured workers. They also determine maximum medical improvement, impose medical restrictions on return-to-work and determine whether a job offer is compatible with a returning work...