91 comments
1. On November 1, 2022, The Board of Physical Therapy issued Guidance Document:112-14 - “Guidance on Electromyography (“EMG”), Sharp Debridement, and Removal of Sutures, Staples, or Surgical Drains and the Practice of Physical Therapy,” that holds in relevant part:
Electromyography (“EMG”) EMG is an invasive procedure and requires referral and direction from a licensed practitioner, in accordance with Virginia Code § 54.1-3482.
Sharp Debridement Sharp debridement is an invasive procedure and requires referral and direction from a licensed practitioner, in accordance with Virginia Code § 54.1-3482.
Sutures, Staples, or Surgical Drains The removal of sutures or staples is an invasive procedure and requires referral and direction from a licensed practitioner, in accordance with Virginia Code § 54.1-3482.
2. On March 21, 2023, the Governor of Virginia approved unlimited direct access, to include dry needling, removing the requirement for physical therapists to obtain a prescription. Therefore, dry needling is no longer considered an “invasive procedure” within the practice of Physical Therapy
3. Va. Code §54.1-3482. Practice of physical therapy; certain experience and referrals required; physical therapist assistants states in relevant part:
D. Invasive procedures within the scope of practice of physical therapy shall at all times be performed only under the referral and direction of a licensed Doctor of Medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, podiatry, or dental surgery, a licensed nurse practitioner practicing in accordance with the provisions of § 54.1-2957, or a licensed physician assistant acting under the supervision of a licensed physician.
4. 18 VAC l 12-20-170(B)(3) Confidentiality and practitioner-patient communication provides in relevant part: B. Communication with patients
3. Before any invasive procedure is performed, informed consent shall be obtained from the patient and documented in accordance with the policies of the health care entity. Practitioners shall inform patients of the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the recommended invasive procedure that a reasonably prudent practitioner in similar practice in Virginia would tell a patient. In the instance of a minor or a patient who is incapable of making an informed decision on his own behalf or is incapable of communicating such a decision due to a physical or mental disorder, the legally authorized person available to give consent shall be informed and the consent documented.
5. As of the date if this filing, the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy has promulgated no amendments to the administrative code to define “invasive procedure” other than its November 2022 Guidance Document 112-14, supra. See for example: Virginia Emergency Medical Services Regulations' definition of an "invasive procedure" is at 12VAC5-31-10 and the Virginia Board of Medicine's definition of “invasive procedure” is at 18VAC85-140-150(A)(3)(c).
6. Is Pelvic Floor Therapy an invasive procedure in the practice of Physical Therapy? The APTA and the VPTA's pelvic health documentation gives guidance on how the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Administrative Process Act should be outlined, including but not limited to, is pelvic floor therapy within the scope of practice for physical therapy, and if a student PT or PTA can perform pelvic floor therapy without pelvic floor certification or without the appropriate entry level degrees required for graduation and licensure.
7. Does the practice of Pelvic Floor Therapy require certification, licensure or a minimum number of hours of training in the practice of Physical Therapy?
8. What is the standard of care for Pelvic Floor Therapy in the practice of Physical Therapy?
DID YOU KNOW, on March 15, 2022, The Virginia Board of Physical Therapy (BoPT) issued an Order declaring for the first time that “pelvic floor therapy was an invasive procedure” and therefore, it was governed by Va. Code §54.1-3482. Practice of physical therapy; certain experience and referrals required; physical therapist assistants holds in relevant part:
D. Invasive procedures within the scope of practice of physical therapy shall at all times be performed only under the referral and direction of a licensed Doctor of Medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, podiatry, or dental surgery, a licensed nurse practitioner practicing in accordance with the provisions of § 54.1-2957, or a licensed physician assistant acting under the supervision of a licensed physician.
DID YOU KNOW, the Board PROMULGATED THAT “NEW REGULATION” on March 15, 2022, APPLIED IT TO ONLY ONE VIRGINIA LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST, RETROACTIVELY to 2015, and SUSPENDED HIS LICENSE TO PRACTICE.
DID YOU KNOW, on February 23, 2023, the Henrico County Circuit Court issued an opinion, and on March 27, 2023, entered the Order and VACATED the BoPT’s finding. The Court ruled: “There exists NO regulation classifying pelvic floor therapy as an invasive procedure triggering statutory and regulatory requirements for its performance, and the term "invasive procedure" is not defined by the Board in the statutes nor in its regulations” with the footnote, “Compare with Virginia Emergency Medical Services Regulations' definition of an "invasive procedure" at 12VAC5-31-10, and the Virginia Board of Medicine's definition at 18VAC85-140-150(A)(3)(c).”
DID YOU KNOW now is the time to make your voice heard…LOUDLY and CLEARLY!
Please take the time to respond to this petition so we can get clear and concise rules and regulations THAT WILL APPLY TO EVERYONE, for the safety of our patients and the INTEGRITY OF OUR FIELD!
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant Attorney General’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system
I am in full support of the Board continuing to list pelvic floor therapy as NON-Invasive.It has been listed that way in the past, as stated by the assistant AG in his testimony and as pointed out by the Judge. As a healthcare provider, myself I find the treatment of Scott Roberts as shameful if not even criminal. He has been unfairly targeted and should have his rights reinstated immediately. He has been my physical therapist for years. I would most likely not be a practicing dentist anymore,if it were not for his excellent care over the years. He has helped me with back, neck, hip etc. He has performed pelvic floor therapy on me and it was shown to be an effective treatment. AGAIN, he is a respectable, capable, talented PT that has been falsely accused and treated unjustly. He has helped so many of my patients, friends and family...he is an excellent PT.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
I have been a patient of Scott Roberts since I moved to Henrico County in 2008. He is a true healer! I have seen him for rehab of a shattered elbow, broken ankle, broken shoulder, plus other injuries and pains. I have always obtained relief. He is very professional and describes all treatments and what he plans to do prior to treatment.
I have received pelvic floor treatment from another PT who practices under Scott Roberts.
The field of PT is so specialized now with certifications available for very unique treatments the PCP’s and other Doctors can’t keep up with it. A patient has to be proactive to find solutions for ailments Doctors tend to treat with medication rather then trying to get to the root cause. Pelvic floor PT and needling are great examples. Neither treatment would require outpatient protocol or inpatient. That is how I define an invasive treatment. You don’t have a team of medical professionals participating in the treatment either.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
I am in full support of the Board listing pelvic floor as non invasive as stated by the AG in testimony and support by Henrico Judge.
I have received pelvic floor therapy by three former members of Scott Robert's Staff and by two physical therapist on Dr. Glacier (VA Urologist) staff. This should not be considered as invasive in any way. Not only does pelvic floor help women with bladder issues, it can help in many other ways for other issues of the body. I believe and know this first hand
Scott Robert is the most Amazing Physical Therapist there is. I have been treated by Scott for several issues since he opened his practice in 2004 and he has kept me off the operating table and in good physical health. As a result of the many years being treated by Scott I have seen and heard so many absolutely amazing stories from other patients as well.
To do this injustice to Scott is beyond reprehensible behavior. Scott's license needs to be reinstated immediately, the action taken by the board regarding this should be expunged and a formal apologize so he ca continue the awesome and amazing working that he has done in the past.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive...as it always has been per the Assistant AG's own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive...as it always has been per the Assistant AG's own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system. As a former patient and continued treasured friend of Scott Roberts, I can attest that he is one of the finest people I know. He is a gifted, impressive and masterful PT who takes his role as a skilled health-provider very seriously. Having his license taken away for almost 2 years was indefensible!
I am in support of pelvic floor therapy being non invasive.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
How is it possible that the BoPT member(s) were able to promulgate a "new regulation," stating for the first time "pelvic floor therapy was an INVASIVE procedure," without having ANY certified experts in pelvic floor therapy present and NOT knowing their own facilities websites, where they teach or practice, which still to date, list pelvic floor therapy as NON-INVASIVE?
http://www.bonsecoursphysicaltherapy.com/pelvic-pain/
There are non-invasive physical therapy solutions to address pelvic pain. The program your therapist customizes for you may include some of the following therapies:
https://go.vcuhealth.org/media/file/UrogynGuide-UnderstandingPelvicFloorConditions-Sept2019.pdf
Treatment options
Noninvasive solutions: In addition to lifestyle changes, your doctor may recommend exercises to retrain your bladder and strengthen your pelvic muscles. You may also receive treatment in the form of physical therapy, which may involve biofeedback or nerve stimulation to teach you how to activate your muscles.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive treatment...as it has always been per the Assistant AG's own testimony, and as it was recently pointed out by the Henrico County Circuit Court. Furthermore, the absolutely despicable treatment Scott Roberts has endured, as disgustingly administered by the board, is nothing short of a travesty. What this man has been forced to go through is absolutely unforgiveable. After devoting 32 years of my life to the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am embarrassed to see another Department treat a human being in such a manner. Shameful....ABSOLUTELY SHAMEFUL!!!
I was treated, and my condition was cured, by Scott Roberts. The entire treatment period was professional, effective, and reasonable. I will be forever grateful for his professionalism and skill as a Physical Therapist.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive.
Based on the Assistant Attorney General's own testimony and the Judge in the Henrico County Court system's observation, I am in favor of listing pelvic floor therapy as NON-INVASIVE.
I am in support of the Physical Therapy Medical board in listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system!
Support as non-invasive
DID YOU KNOW that some therapists didn’t pay attention to their coursework and don’t understand when to use 1 fingers versus 2 fingers despite it literally being taught in beginner courses and is expanded upon in advanced courses?
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always as been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
DID YOU KNOW…
The Virginia Department of Health Professions or VDHP testified it does NOT conduct any quality control or oversight in its investigations! The VDHP also testified its investigation did NOT consider ANY exculpatory evidence in its possession when it prepared the "Summary of Investigation" for consideration!
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
I have received pelvic floor therapy previously and it helped tremendously. It needs to be done with full consent and understanding of the patient but it is non-invasive.
I am in support of the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy officially listing pelvic floor therapy as a non-invasive procedure… as it has always been, according to the Commonwealth's Assistant AG’s own testimony, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
While I have not received pelvic floor therapy, I have received (from Scott Roberts) numerous modalities of treatment for chronic pain. I believe pelvic floor treatment is a viable and valid procedure that should be part of a physical therapist's toolkit. Certification requirements (as appropriate) should be delineated, including procedures to be followed in regards to full consent and understanding of the patient prior to treatment.
In the disciplinary matter regarding Scott Roberts, the Board of Physical Therapy should be called to task for their actions taken against this practitioner who continually receives training on new and alternative approaches to care within his field, while always practicing within existing laws, rules, and guidelines.
When any Board conducts a public disciplinary review, an agenda should be in place, shared, and followed; meeting procedures should be followed; all present should be permitted to participate accordingly; Board members should be engaged in the review process rather than sleeping, texting, or reading; and the highest level of leadership and professionalism should be demonstrated at all times.
Reactions in regards to the way Scott Roberts was treated by the Board can only be remedied by replacement of the entire current Board, and the appropriate training of new board members in regards to their: oversight role of Virginia's Physical Therapists; the current legal framework within which the field is operating; administrative procedures to be adhered to; meeting expectations; and disciplinary options and guidelines available to board members performing their roles.
Upon the immediate reinstatement of Mr. Robert's credentials and right to practice, taxpaying citizens of the Commonwealth can only hope that he will not sue the Board and/or the State of Virginia for slander and loss of income during the past 18 months.
I am in support of the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy officially listing pelvic floor therapy as a non-invasive procedure… as it has always been, according to the Commonwealth's Assistant AG’s own testimony, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
On another note, after hearing than reading the complaint filed against my brother I was sick to my stomach. After nearly 15 years in law enforcement and sitting in both criminal and civil cases, I can say I’ve never seen a more disturbing and disgusting example of a hearing. The treatment and judgments brought not only to my brother but exhibited to those testifying on his behalf were obscene. In my opinion every board member should be immediately replaced and investigated as well as the commonwealth attorney that worked this case.
To those that don’t know this about Scott he was first a patient. He was in a horrible car accident as a teen and was in a coma for several days. He received a plate in his head and had to learn how do all the things again. All from PT’s,KT’s etc. Since than he has dedicated his life to this field. His weekends are usually filled with some type of CE somewhere. He has struggled and saved to be able to open his own practice to be able help as many people as he can. He often works 16 hr days. He literally never stops learning new and innovative ways to help treat his patients. It’s his passion. His calling. He’s one of few people in life that are truly lucky enough where anyone who’s ever met him, knows he’s living his passion of helping people.To see that stripped away from him under the circumstances in which it was done, if not criminal was most definitely evil.
While we were raised that lawsuits were a waste of time, let bygones be bygones, I sincerely hope he sues everyone involved in that kangaroo court! I think starting with every board member giving up their salaries for two years than x that by 10 would be a good place to start. I pray they also face criminal charges for their behavior. That’s the only criminal thing I’ve witnessed throughout this ordeal.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive. It has been listed as such per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system. Having been treated by Scott Roberts before, and his treatment has been effective. I don’t see how making pelvic floor therapy invasive would improve the treatment.
DID YOU KNOW that despite there being vast information on how the fascial system connects the pelvic floor to the jaw/neck/shoulder/UB regions, some therapists and PA's do NOT understand this and therefore dismiss it exists!
CommentID: 216943
DID YOU KNOW that some therapists are NOT comfortable treating in different positions, despite the current up to date literature not only supporting it, but recommending it?
DID YOU KNOW because they DON’T understand it, they deem it as NOT valid??!!
CommentID: 216944
DID YOU KNOW…A physical therapy treatment can be held to a 500 hour massage therapy standard! Any physical therapist with a dual licensure in Virginia is no longer protected under title protection!
The Department of Health Professions Investigator and the Board of Nursing violated a physical therapist's title protection by changing a patient's physical therapy treatment to a massage client…when the patient was ONLY seen for physical therapy!
The APTA clearly states "Massage therapists, chiropractors, personal trainers, or health care practitioners may share some of the same treatment modalities or techniques that also are used by physical therapists; however, an intervention should only be described or advertised as physical therapy or physiotherapy when provided or supervised by a licensed physical therapist."
I, 100%, am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as NON-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
As a person who has benefited greatly from pelvic floor work through physical therapy, please vote to have this therapy classified as non-invasive as it has always been.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
BoPT and VDHP - In reviewing this matter I want you to know that I am in support of listing Pelvic Floor Therapy treatment as non-invasive. Thank you for your consideration.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as noninvasive, as it has always been per the Assistant attorney general's own testified statement and as was pointed out by the judge in the Henrico County Court system.
Experts in this area, such as Dr. Joseph Gianfortoni, the Pelvic Pain Rehabilitation Program at Bon Secours Richmond, Women's Health Programs at Bon Secours in Hampton Roads and VCU Health Urogynecology programs all deem it to be noninvasive.
I can foresee no benefit to either patients or clinicians to change the designation of pelvic floor therapy to being invasive.
Finally the hearings and conduct by the board of physical therapy have been reprehensible. As a layman, I have witnessed utter disregard for Mr. Roberts' rights and reputation. The board publicly declared him guilty before hearings were conducted, which would seem to me to constitute defamation. Mr. Roberts is strong but he deserves significant financial compensation from several entities for his loss of income, attorneys' fees and the damage to his sterling reputation over his 20+ years of PT practice.
Support petition to make PFT NON-invasive.
I am in favor of keeping Pelvic floor physical therapy non-invasive.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
I have referred many patients to Scott over the past 15 years and patients have been pleased with his care. I have personally been a patient of his as well for adjustments and dry needling and while I never had pelvic floor therapy I would have felt comfortable with him performing it as he is a professional and a very skilled physical therapist.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive, as it always has been. I have benefited from pelvic floor therapy a number of times and it does not need to be made a complicated mode of therapy nor put in a situation where the increased cost is prohibitive to women who may need the therapy but might not be able to afford it. Thank you.
“I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.”
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive, as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
As a licensed physical therapist who has been practicing, in good standing, since 1994 in the state of Virginia, I can confidently state that the art of pelvic rehabilitation is such that requires many hours of hands on and didactic training.
I have been providing pelvic rehab to women and men since early 2010 in Northern Virginia and have been teaching in the field since 2017.
All the therapists, who have the proper training, are taught to assess the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor musculoskeletal and neurological systems through an internal assessment, when necessary. This examination provides valuable information which will decide the course of treatment and interventions. Internal assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor is NEVER forced and only provided with patient’s consent. Otherwise, the physical or occupational therapist who is providing care would assess externally, with limitations.
I have known Mr. Roberts for close to 7 years. He has attended many of the pelvic floor continuing education classes that I have thought over the years, including the advanced courses.
He is one of the most compassionate, cautious, and brilliant physical therapists that I have come across.
In fact, after recognizing his level of knowledge in many other areas of the field, I have reached out to him as a source of solid information and experience.
It is shameful that he has been stripped of his healing abilities for the past 18 months. This has not been only detrimental to his mental health and financial well being but also has affected a community of people who would have been able to receive care from a talented clinician.
Those responsible should formally apologize and reimburse him for his loss of revenue and pain and suffering that he has endured.
In support of pelvic floor therapy remaining non invasive.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive…as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s own testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
If this were to become invasive, it would open the door for anyone not in adherence to potentially have their license revoked, lawsuits, re-imbursement to insurance companies, etc.? I am in support to keep in non-invasive.
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