New York, USA

Physical therapists in New York must adhere to specific telehealth laws and regulations to provide remote care while ensuring patient safety and compliance with state laws. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) permits licensed physical therapists to use telehealth as a platform for delivering care, provided they fulfill all licensure requirements and abide by state practice standards. Physical therapists must obtain informed consent from patients before initiating telehealth services. This includes explaining the nature of telehealth, its limitations, and risks, as well as patient rights. Telehealth services must be delivered via secure and encrypted platforms to ensure the confidentiality and security of patient information. Physical therapists are required to verify that telehealth is appropriate for their patients’ conditions, needs, and goals, and to ensure that the patient has access to the technology necessary for effective treatment. Additionally, documentation plays a key role, with therapists needing to provide comprehensive records detailing the rationale for telehealth use, session notes, treatment outcomes, and patient progress. The New York telehealth laws emphasize maintaining the same quality of care as in-person visits, ensuring that telehealth does not compromise patient care. These regulations aim to facilitate the effective use of telehealth, allowing physical therapists to serve patients more flexibly without deviating from professional and legal standards.