Under ILPA, which statement best describes PT's ability to evaluate and plan treatment?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. PT must always diagnose before treatment
• D. PT cannot establish a treatment plan without physician input

Answer: (A)

Under ILPA, physical therapists can independently assess a patient and formulate a treatment plan based on that evaluation, without needing a physician referral. This direct-access capability means you can start evaluating the problem, identify a plan of care, and initiate treatment within your scope. If red flags or conditions beyond PT scope appear, referral to a physician is appropriate. So the statement that a PT can evaluate and plan treatment under ILPA is true. The other options would misstate the role, since a PT does not have to wait for physician input to begin care, and they can establish a treatment plan within their scope (with referral if needed).