How to Become an Expert Consultant and/or Practice Monitor for the Board
– What is an Expert Consultant and/or Practice Monitor?
An expert consultant (expert) and/or practice monitor is a licensed physical therapist, whose license is current and in good standing, and who is knowledgeable in a particular area of practice and also in the laws, regulations and community standards of care for the practice of physical therapy in the state of California.
– What does an Expert Consultant do?
Experts review complaints, medical records and all other supporting documentation filed with the Board against a practitioner. In addition to reviewing the complaint records, an expert will be required to submit a report of their findings to the Board. The Board may also request an expert conduct an onsite review of patient records. If allegations are substantiated an expert may also need to present their findings at an administrative hearing.
– What does a Practice Monitor do?
Practice monitors monitor the practice of a licensee who has been placed on probation for violating the Physical Therapy Practice Act.
– Is this a permanent position with the Physical Therapy Board of California (Board) and/or how many hours will I be expected to work?
No, this is not a permanent position nor is there a binding contract. You will be contacted on an on call basis by Board staff, as needed.
– Do I have to travel?
You will be conducting patient record review from complaints received on physical therapy practitioners in your area; however, if you must attend an administrative hearing to provide testimony regarding your findings you will need to travel to the hearing site which may not be in your immediate area.
– How do I get reimbursed for my services as an expert consultant?
The expert consultant is reimbursed on a case by case basis. Upon completion of your report, you will be reimbursed $75.00 an hour for case review and report writing and $100.00 per hour for testimony at a hearing.
– Is there any formal training to become an Expert consultant/practice monitor?
Yes, you will be required to complete a one day training given periodically by the Board on an as needed basis. When trainings are scheduled the Board will post it on the home page of the Board website at www.ptbc.ca.gov. The Board targets geographic areas of need and will send mailings to physical therapists randomly selected in the targeted areas.
– When is the next training?
The next Expert Consultant/Practice Monitor Training will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at Ohlone College in Newark. Approximate time of course: 8:30am – 4:00pm. If you are viewing this after the date of this training, please refer to the Board's homepage for announcements of future trainings. Only when there is a training scheduled will you see a posting.
– When will you send me specific information regarding the date, time, and location of the course once scheduled?
You will be notified of the course with more specifics in writing once your application and current Curriculum Vitae is received and approved by the Board.
– Is there a fee for the course?
No, there is no fee for the course.
– Will I be compensated for my time after I participate in the course?
No, you are not compensated for your time taking the course.
