Senate committee will consider allowing physical therapists to treat concussions

Physical therapists in North Carolina could be closer to holding the legal authority to care for student-athletes who are in concussion protocol.

The Senate Rules Committee is expected to consider House Bill 928 on Wednesday afternoon. The bill seeks to add licensed physical therapists to the list of medical professionals who are allowed to care for and clear student-athletes who exhibit symptoms of a concussion.

State law requires a middle or high school student-athlete who has concussion symptoms to be removed from play and be evaluated by a medical professional. They must be cleared before they’re allowed to return.

Right now, physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, licensed athletic trainers, and neuropsychologists who are trained in concussion management and work with a physician are all permitted to evaluate student-athletes with possible concussions.

If HB 928 passes, licensed physical therapists will be added to the list. Physical therapists often serve as first responders on the sidelines of middle and high school sporting events, either in a supporting role to a licensed athletic trainer or in place of one if a school doesn’t have a trainer on staff.

The bill, which was introduced by Rep. Carla D. Cunningham (D-Mecklenburg), has bipartisan support. It passed the House by a vote of 100-11 in May.

The Senate Rules Committee is scheduled to meet at 2 p.m. on Wednesday. If the bill passes the committee, it will go to the full Senate for consideration.

A favorable vote in the full Senate will send the bill to Gov. Josh Stein (D) for a signature or veto. If it becomes law, it will take effect immediately.