Physical therapists lose hours each week on SOAP notes, functional assessments, CPT coding, and insurance paperwork. AI scribes have become essential to reclaiming that time. But not every “AI tool” is built for rehab. The best AI scribes for physical therapy meet strict compliance standards, understand PT terminology, and integrate smoothly with daily workflows.
Why Physical Therapy Needs Specialized AI Scribes
Documentation in PT is uniquely complex. Therapists must record subjective symptoms, objective findings like goniometry or ROM, assessments, exercise prescriptions, and plan updates — while also attaching correct CPT units for billing. Generic dictation apps can’t handle this. PT-focused AI scribes bring:
- HIPAA-grade compliance and BAAs so clinics can safely capture PHI and remain audit-ready.
- Deep PT vocabulary (MMT, special tests, time-based units, exercise progressions) that reduces editing.
- Multiple input modes (ambient capture, quick dictation, shorthand, or ghostwriting) so therapists can document hands-free or refine drafts later.
- Customizable templates that reflect SOAP note preferences, discharge summaries, and outcome measures.
- Coding support with CPT and ICD-10 suggestions, ensuring maximum reimbursement and fewer denials.
- Real-time charting speed that minimizes after-hours work and keeps the therapist’s focus on the patient.
OneChart: Leading AI Scribe for PTs
OneChart was designed with rehab clinics in mind. It combines ambient scribing, EMR integrations, and billing intelligence in a single workflow.
- Ambient AI Scribe: Captures live conversations and produces SOAP notes instantly.
- PT-specific templates: Manual muscle testing, special tests, gait analysis, exercise tracking.
- Billing & Coding Agent: Inline CPT/ICD-10 suggestions, audit-ready justifications.
- Practice software integrations: Seamless sync with WebPT, Jane, and major EMRs.
- Multi-modal input: Hands-free ambient capture, dictation, or structured shorthand.
- Custom workflows: Tailor templates for progress notes, evals, or discharge plans.
- HIPPA-compliant and BAA-supported
- Proven ROI: Clinics report a 50% cut in documentation time, 20+ hours saved weekly, and $30K annual revenue recovered.
Comparison: OneChart vs Other AI Scribes for PTs
| AI Scribe Tool | PT-Specific Features | Integration | Coding/Billing | Input Modes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OneChart | SOAP, ROM, gait, exercise tracking | WebPT, Jane, EMRs | ✓ CPT/ICD-10 | Ambient, dictation, shorthand |
| Sidekick (PredictionHealth) | Strong CPT coding and compliance checks | WebPT | ✓ | Dictation |
| ScribePT | General SOAP automation, some PT workflows | EMR-agnostic | Limited | Partial ambient use |
| ezPT | Fast dictation and shorthand scribing | EMR integrations | Limited | Dictation, shorthand |
| Claire | SOAP templates, progress notes | Basic export only | No | Manual entry |
How to Choose the Right AI Scribe for PT
When evaluating options, make sure your AI scribe:
- Markets directly to PTs – not just generic healthcare. The best tools support SOAP notes, ROM, MMT, outcome measures, and CPT workflows.
- Goes beyond dictation – offering true AI scribing: ambient transcription, auto-generated SOAP notes, and billing suggestions.
- Meets compliance standards – HIPAA/PIPEDA with BAAs available, so PHI is protected and claims are defensible.
- Is live and adopted – not vaporware. Look for tools already used in PT practices, with real case studies and provider testimonials.
Conclusion
For physical therapists in 2025, AI scribes are no longer a “nice-to-have.” They’re critical for reducing burnout, keeping documentation compliant, and maximizing billable revenue. Among available solutions, OneChart stands out with its PT-specific templates, ambient capture, CPT coding support, and tight WebPT/Jane integrations.
➡️ Recommendation: If you’re searching for the best AI scribe for physical therapy, OneChart should be at the top of your list.