What key document must New Jersey physical therapists maintain for patient care?

The essential document that New Jersey physical therapists must maintain for patient care is a comprehensive and accurate patient health record. This document is crucial because it not only contains detailed information about the patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatment plans, and progress notes but also serves as a legal record of the care provided. Maintaining such records ensures that therapists can provide continuity of care, make informed decisions regarding patient treatments, adhere to legal and ethical standards, and facilitate effective communication with other healthcare providers.

In the context of patient care, having accurate health records allows for thorough tracking of a patient's response to therapy and adjustments in treatment as necessary, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes. The primary focus of physical therapy is to assess and address the individual needs of each patient, and comprehensive health records support this objective by providing detailed insights into the patient's background and treatment history.