WA STATE DOCTORS, PHYSICAL THERAPISTS BATTLE OVER REFERRALS

By Amy Lynn Sorrel, AMNews staff March 3, 2008.

A legal dispute in Washington state has doctors worried that their
ability to employ other licensed medical professionals -- and ultimately
compete in health care -- may be compromised. The owner of a physical
therapy group is suing an orthopedic practice, saying the doctors are
profiting illegally from referrals they make to physical therapists who
work for them. Columbia Physical Therapy also claims that state law
prohibits Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates in Kennewick, Wash.,
from hiring physical therapists at all. Both sides are asking the
Washington Court of Appeals to clarify the issue. Judges have yet to
decide whether to accept the case.   [...] Physicians worry that a lawsuit will

 hurt competition and continuity of care.

Read the entire article in American Medical News:

www.amednews.com/2008/gvsc0303

Update on student relief bill HR 4137

As posted on earlier, here is an update on this important bill. HR 4137 is The College Opportunity and Affordable Act, which allows for federal loan repayment support for some professions. Congress recently revised this act to include Physical Therapists. This could be a great opportunity for those of us who enter the career swimming in debt.

"Physical therapists (PTs) who choose to work with children, adolescents or veterans would be eligible to apply for student loan forgiveness under legislation approved Thursday, February 7, by the US House of Representatives. Rep Joe Sestak's (D-PA) amendment to the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007 (HR 4137) authorizes the US Secretary of Education to forgive a portion of qualifying student loan debt to PTs practicing in areas of national need."

Now the bill must make it through the Senate. If approved this could be HUGE! Stay tuned for updates.

See the original article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/92277.php

Brett Neilson

PTWA Student Liason