After accepting a $50,000 check, furniture and antiques from a patient and running personal errands for her, an Owatonna physical therapist was told to take a course in professional boundaries, the Minnesota Board of Physical Therapy ordered in January.
Jennifer L. O’Connor had attended the same college as the patient, who said the money was “from one 'alum’ to the next 'alum’.” O’Connor initially refused the check in 2004 then changed her mind after consulting a lawyer, the board said.
In 2005, the patient started to call O’Connor frequently and drive by her house. O’Connor returned the household items at the patient’s request and changed her phone number. The patient obtained her new phone number and continued to call her.
The initial plan of care for the patient was two sessions per week for two to three weeks. The board cited O’Connor for substandard practice and record-keeping for some of the more than 141 sessions she eventually provided to the patient over a three-year period.
More From Star Tribune
More From Local
Duluth

Beargrease racers set off, as Ryan Anderson eyes fifth title
The 39th running of the John Beargrease Sled Dog races started Sunday morning on the grounds of Billy's Bar on the outskirts of Duluth. Seventeen teams started the 300-mile race that winds up the North Shore.
St. Paul

300 rally for police reform in St. Paul after Tyre Nichols killing
Activists and families of Minnesotans killed by police said Sunday that the video released by the Memphis Police Department showing officers fatally beating a 29-year-old…
West Metro
Driver in custody after hitting two teens in Bloomington
Both teens were badly hurt.
Local

Hollies Winston takes over as Brooklyn Park's first Black mayor
Building relationships is a top priority, he says.
West Metro

Bloomington makes fresh pitch to Legislature for a local sales tax
Cities that did not get state approval for sales tax requests last year are trying again this legislative session.