Maryland Physical Therapy Practice Act and Regulations
Statutory framework
Maryland physical therapy is governed primarily by the Health Occupations Article, Title 13 (Physical Therapy), and the Board of Physical Therapy Examiners' regulations in COMAR 10.38.01. The Act creates the Board, defines physical therapy and physical therapist assistant, sets licensure qualifications, authorizes discipline, and makes unlicensed practice unlawful. The Board may adopt regulations, investigate complaints, conduct hearings, impose sanctions, and audit continuing education. The Act also restricts titles: only a licensee may use 'physical therapist,' 'PT,' 'physical therapist assistant,' or 'PTA' in a way that implies licensure.
Licensure mechanics
A Maryland PT or PTA license is required before practice. Applications require education, examination, and good moral character; the Board may deny licensure for specified misconduct. Licenses renew biennially, and renewal is conditioned on completing the Board's continuing education requirement, generally 30 contact hours per two-year cycle, subject to current COMAR subject-specific rules. Late renewal, lapsed practice, and CE audits are common regulatory issues. A licensee must notify the Board of certain changes, such as address changes or disciplinary actions in another jurisdiction, as required by statute and regulation.
Worked example
A PT lets her Maryland license lapse on June 30 while continuing to treat patients for two weeks. She argues she did not get the renewal notice. The Board's analysis does not turn on notice: practicing after expiration is unlicensed practice, regardless of intent. She faces discipline and must apply for reinstatement under the applicable regulations; her CE must still be documented.
Traps
- Assuming a national certification or another state's license authorizes Maryland practice.
- Treating CE as optional until audit; keep certificates and completion dates.
- Confusing Board certification with licensure; Maryland issues licenses.
- Ignoring title restrictions when supervising students or aides.