Washington state doctors, physical therapists battle over referrals
February 25th, 2008 Posted by: Dr. Dobson
A legal dispute in Washington state has doctors worried that their ability to employ other licensed medical professionals — and ultimately compete in health care — may be compromised.
The owner of a physical therapy group is suing an orthopedic practice, saying the doctors are profiting illegally from referrals they make to physical therapists who work for them. Columbia Physical Therapy also claims that state law prohibits Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates in Kennewick, Wash., from hiring physical therapists at all. Both sides are asking the Washington Court of Appeals to clarify the issue. Judges have yet to decide whether to accept the case.
Popularity: unranked [?]
Tags: Washington, state, doctors, physical, therapists, battle, referrals