Oregon Board of Physical Therapy gains authority to investigate misconduct complaints

Oregon's House Bill 3824, introduced on April 14, 2025, aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the state. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding professional conduct, particularly in cases of misconduct and the safety of patients.

Key provisions of HB 3824 empower the Oregon Board of Physical Therapy to take decisive actions against practitioners under investigation. This includes the ability to suspend licenses or restrict practice pending investigations, as well as requiring evaluations for mental, physical, or chemical dependency issues when there are reasonable grounds to suspect a therapist's ability to practice safely. The bill also outlines procedures for handling complaints, allowing for both disciplinary and nondisciplinary actions, such as issuing confidential advisory letters to practitioners when necessary.

Notably, the bill addresses the sensitive issue of sexual misconduct, clarifying that sexual contact between a therapist and a patient, even after the professional relationship has ended, may be considered misconduct if it exploits the trust inherent in the therapist-patient dynamic.

The introduction of HB 3824 has sparked discussions among stakeholders, including physical therapy professionals and patient advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is a crucial step toward ensuring patient safety and maintaining high professional standards within the field. However, some practitioners express concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications of mandatory evaluations, fearing it may lead to unnecessary scrutiny of their practices.

The economic implications of the bill could be significant, as stricter regulations may lead to increased operational costs for physical therapy practices. Conversely, enhanced patient safety measures could foster greater public trust in physical therapy services, potentially expanding the patient base.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its outcomes will likely shape the future of physical therapy regulation in Oregon. If passed, HB 3824 could set a precedent for similar legislative efforts in other states, emphasizing the importance of accountability and patient protection in healthcare professions.