In what manner must a physical therapist notify a referring practitioner about the assessment results?

A physical therapist is required to notify a referring practitioner about assessment results in writing to ensure clear and documented communication about the patient’s condition, treatment plan, and progress. This written notification serves various important purposes, including maintaining accurate medical records, providing a formal means for the referring practitioner to review the findings, and ensuring that all parties involved in the patient's care have access to necessary information for further treatment decisions.

While verbal communication, electronic means, or phone calls might be used as adjunct methods to relay information or discuss immediate concerns, they do not provide the same level of documentation and accountability that written communication offers. In a professional healthcare setting, proper documentation is critical for compliance with legal standards and for fostering effective coordination of care among healthcare providers.