Physical Therapist Legislation Takes Heat From Opponents

Physical therapists are protesting a bill -- AB 783, by Assembly member Mary Hayashi (D-Hayward) -- that would allow physicians and medical corporations to employ licensed physical therapists. Opponents say the measure could wind up adding to treatment costs and lead to conflict-of-interest issues because physicians could refer patients to therapists in their own practice. Proponents of the measure say it would help formalize the relationship between physicians and physical therapists.

• "Physical Therapists Criticize Bill in Assembly" (Amaro, Merced Sun-Star, 4/13).