Relating to the authority of a physical therapist to treat a patient without a referral.

HB 4727 allows Texas physical therapists to treat patients for injuries or conditions without a physician referral, effective September 1, 2025. To qualify, therapists must have at least one year of licensure, professional liability insurance, and either a doctoral degree in physical therapy from an accredited program or 30 hours of continuing education in differential diagnosis. The bill also clarifies that physical therapists may provide emergency medical care without a referral during emergencies. It repeals prior requirements that previously mandated referrals for certain treatments under the Occupations Code. This directly affects physical therapists and their patients by expanding direct access to care.