It’s always disappointing when a physical therapist receives an unfavorable decision from the Arizona Physical Therapy Board (“APTB“). However, physical therapists in Arizona can benefit from understanding the process that goes along with Arizona Physical Therapy Board appeals and hearings after a case is heard by the Board. If you are facing an unfavorable APTB outcome due to an offered disciplinary action, you can always appeal the decision and request an administrative hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings.
Links of Interest
Filing an Appeal after a Physical Therapy Board Meeting
The investigatory process and the appeal process work like this: Once the Board receives a complaint or self-report they will then initiate an investigation into the Arizona physical therapist license. The purpose of this investigation is to give the APTB evidence to make a decision on whether or not a physical therapist should face disciplinary action. If the physical therapist receives an unfavorable formal disciplinary decision, it is at this point, they can then file an appeal and request a hearing with the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearing. An Administrative Law Judge will then oversee the appeal and the Physical Therapist may need to attend a hearing. However, sometimes the investigation is automatically sent to hearing or an informal settlement conference can be held (if requested).
Arizona Administrative Appeal and Hearing
Any physical therapist licensee may request a legal appeal of Arizona Physical Therapy Board Discipline to an administrative law judge with the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) which is located in Phoenix. In some instances, a case is sent automatically to OAH. The Arizona’s OAH hearing is conducted before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The administrative process is not as formal as a trial, but is similar. Each party presents evidence using documents or sworn testimony. Each party also gives an opening and closing argument which should explain why the judge should rule one way or the other. A physical therapist’s attorney can cross examine witnesses and testify on his or her behalf. After it is completed, the ALJ reviews the transcripts, evidence and makes a recommendation. However, the Board makes the decision to either accept, reject or modify the ALJ’s decision. If an individuals feels there has been a mistake they can request a rehearing by appealing the decision.
Consultation with Stark Law
If you’re interested in learning more about our Arizona Physical Therapy Board Attorney services and how to protect your license, set up a consultation with Stark Law today.