Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act of 2025

Bill 119 HR 1517, also known as the "Locum Tenens for Physical Therapists Act," aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include physical therapists as eligible providers for locum tenens arrangements under Medicare.

Locum tenens arrangements allow healthcare providers to temporarily fill in for other providers who are unable to work due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. Currently, only certain healthcare providers, such as physicians and nurse practitioners, are allowed to participate in locum tenens arrangements under Medicare.

If passed, this bill would expand the list of eligible providers to include physical therapists. This would allow physical therapists to provide care to Medicare beneficiaries in situations where the regular provider is unavailable. Supporters of the bill argue that including physical therapists in locum tenens arrangements would help ensure continuity of care for Medicare beneficiaries and improve access to physical therapy services. Additionally, it would provide more flexibility for physical therapists to fill in for their colleagues when needed. Overall, the "Locum Tenens for Physical Therapists Act" seeks to address a gap in Medicare coverage and improve access to care for beneficiaries. It will be important to monitor the progress of this bill as it moves through the legislative process.