Question: Does the telecommunication waiver for off-site (virtual) supervision of assistants apply to physical and occupational therapy private practices?
Answer: Yes, virtual supervision of PTAs and OTAs absolutely applies to both physical and occupational therapy private practices, respectively.
Question: Do physical and/or occupational therapists have to utilize AV communication vehicles throughout the PTA/OTA treatment session of a Medicare patient?
Answer: No, the therapists just have to be readily available as they would be if the treatment rendered by the PTA/OTA under the General Supervision requirements (like Rehab Agencies). The key difference is that under the Pandemic Waiver readily available requires that the therapists in private practice use both audio and visual technology. A phone is acceptable if it has video capabilities.
For the complete article please refer to SIPA Issue 317.