I have a couple of questions, I hope someone can help me with. 

 I currently work in a LTC facility that uses a lot of PRN PTA's, I am the only full time PTA.  My question is:  I was recenly asked to fill out a weekly summary on a patient b/c the PRN PTA did not complete it before leaving on a Friday (the PTA was there on this day).  The patient was seen M-F the week before and was put on my case load the following Monday.  I had not seen this patient prior to this.  I did not feel comfortable filling out the weekly summary for a week of care I was not envolved with.  I guess what I would like to know is, who should fill out the weekly summary (this was a Med B patient).  I am not looking for confrontation at work, but I don't want to put my lic in jeopardy either.  Any thoughts on this?

My second question is, does anyone know the guidelines about PTA's completing discharge summaries?  I have never worked under a PT that expected me to fill out a D/C summary until now, and I am not sure that is in my scope of practice.  Any help would be appreciated. 

I live in PA if that matters.

Hi Jeanette,

I would suggest your company/co-workers look at Medicare transmittal 88, effective date 1/1/08, implementation date 6/9/08.  Subject: Therapy Personnel Qualification and Policies related to Medicare B services.  In the transmittal it is written progress notes and discharge notes are to be written by the clinician (physical therapist)(meaning either the physician/NP or the physical therapist for physical therapy services).

PTA should not be writing progress notes or discharge summaries for Medicare B clients.

Hope that helps answer your questions.  Good luck.

Amy