Final answer:
For maintenance therapy to be reimbursed by Medicaid, PTs must document that the patient's functional abilities require ongoing physical therapy, that the patient can achieve or maintain functional independence, and that the program needs specialized knowledge to be established and monitored. The history of a patient being on a maintenance program previously is not relevant for Medicaid reimbursement.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to have maintenance therapy reimbursed under Medicaid, a physical therapist (PT) must document certain conditions, except for one incorrect option provided in the question. The conditions that need to be met include:
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- Patient's functional abilities cannot be maintained without physical therapy
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- Patient can achieve or maintain a specific level of functional independence
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- Specialized knowledge and judgment required to establish and monitor the program
However, the condition that a patient has not previously been on a maintenance program is not a required factor for Medicaid reimbursement. It is also important to note that the goal of the PT is to improve a patient's physical functioning by designing a program that enhances capabilities such as strength, balance, and endurance. These aspects are continuously assessed and monitored during treatment. Additionally, PTs provide instructions on the proper use of supportive equipment, assessing when a patient has the necessary strength to safely use devices like crutches and when they can function without them.