CHAPTER Occ 100 ORGANIZATIONAL RULES
Document #13081, effective 7-31-20,
readopted, readopted with amendments, or repealed all of
the rules in Chapter Occ 100.
Specifically, Occ 101.01 titled “Purpose”, Occ 103.02 titled
“Relationship of the Board to the Office of Licensed Allied Health
Professionals”, Occ 103.03 titled “Responsibilities of the Board”, and Occ
103.04 titled “Board Meetings and Quorum” were readopted. Occ 103.05 titled “Attendance at Meetings by
Members of the Public”, Occ 103.06 titled “Notice of Meetings”, Occ 103.07
titled “Minutes of Board Meetings”, and Occ 104 titled “Public Information”
were repealed. A new Occ 103.05 titled
“Other Organizational Rules” was adopted.
Document #13081 replaced all prior
filings for rules in the former Chapter Occ 100. The prior filings affecting the former
Chapter Occ 100 was Document #8272, effective 1-26-05. The prior filings affecting each effective
rule in Chapter Occ 100 are indicated in the source notes for each rule.
As organizational rules the rules in
Chapter Occ 100 will not expire except pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II.
PART Occ 101
PURPOSE
Occ 101.01 Purpose. This chapter sets forth the organization and
statutory responsibilities of the occupational therapy governing board and the manner of communication with the
board.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See Revision Note at chapter heading for
Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
PART Occ 102
DEFINITIONS
Occ 102.01 “American Occupational Therapy Association
(AOTA)” means the entity recognized as the national professional organization of occupational
therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students enrolled in
occupational therapy education programs, or its successor.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366,
eff 9-9-25
Occ 102.02 “Board” means “board” as defined in RSA
326-C:1, I, namely, “the occupational therapy governing board established in
RSA 328-F.”
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25 (formerly Occ 102.01)
Occ
102.03
“National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)” means
the entity that develops the national examination for occupational therapy and
certifies individuals in occupational therapy practice or its successor.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
Occ 102.04 “Occupational therapist” means “occupational
therapist” as defined in RSA 326-C:1, II, namely, “a person currently licensed
to practice occupational therapy in the state of New Hampshire.”
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25 (from Occ 102.02)
Occ 102.05 “Occupational therapy” means “occupational
therapy” as defined in RSA 326-C:1, IV, namely “the
care and services provided by an occupational therapist or occupational therapy
assistant who are licensed pursuant to this chapter. Areas of occupation include but are not
limited to:
(a) Activities of daily living,
which are the routine activities a person completes to meet their basic health
and survival needs.
(b) Instrumental activities of daily living, which are activities a person
completes to live independently and participate in the community.
(c)
Health management.
(d)
Rest and sleep.
(e)
Education.
(f)
Work.
(g)
Play.
(h)
Leisure.
(i) Social participation.”
Source. #14366, eff 9-9-25 (from Occ 102.03)
Occ 102.06 “Occupational therapy assistant (OTA)” means
“occupational therapy assistant” as defined in RSA 326-C:1, III, namely, “a
person currently licensed to assist in the practice of occupational therapy,
under the supervision of an occupational therapist, in the state of New
Hampshire.”
Source. #14366, eff 9-9-25 (from Occ 102.04)
PART Occ 103
DESCRIPTION OF THE BOARD AND BOARD MEETINGS
Occ 103.01 Composition of the Board. The board consists of 5 members appointed as
specified in RSA 328-F:4, V. The members
shall include 3 licensed occupational therapists, one occupational therapy
assistant, and one public member.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
Occ
103.02 RESERVED
Occ 103.03 Responsibilities of the Board. The board’s responsibilities include:
(a) Establishing the eligibility requirements for
the initial licensure of occupational
therapists and occupational therapy assistants;
(b) Establishing the eligibility requirements for
license renewal, including any continuing competency requirements, and any
requirements for education, clinical experience, and training for occupational
therapists and occupational therapy assistants;
(c) The eligibility requirements, including any
continuing competency requirements, for the reinstatement of licenses suspended
for disciplinary reasons; and
(d) The imposition of disciplinary sanctions in
cases of misconduct by licensees.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
Occ 103.04 Board Meetings and Quorum.
(a)
The board shall meet as often as its business requires.
(b)
A quorum shall consist of a majority of the members of the board who
have been approved by the governor and executive council.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
Occ 103.05 Other Organizational Rules. The office of professional licensure and
certification (OPLC) is responsible for the administration of the board. Information such as the board’s office
location, address, and telephone number is described at Plc 103.03. Information regarding the public’s access to
minutes and other board records is described at Plc 104.
Source. #8572, eff 1-26-05; ss by #13081, eff 7-31-20 (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 100); ss by #14366, eff 9-9-25
CHAPTER Occ 200
PROCEDURAL RULES
REVISION
NOTE:
Document
#13081, effective 7-31-20, repealed all of the former
rules in Chapter Occ 200 and adopted a new rule Occ 201 titled “Applicability
of Ahp 200” containing Occ 201.01 titled “Rules of
Practice and Procedures.”
Document
#13081 replaced all prior filings for the former Chapter Occ 200. The prior filings affecting the former
Chapter Occ 200 included the following documents:
#8273,
eff 1-26-05
#8274,
eff 1-26-05, EXPIRED 1-26-13 (in Occ 202, 213, 217 and 218)
#10280,
eff 2-28-13
As practice
and procedure rules, the rules in Chapter Occ 200 in Document #13081 would not
have expired except pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II.
PART Occ 201 APPLICABILITY OF PLC 200
Occ 201.01 Rules
of Practice and Procedure. The Plc
200 rules shall govern with regards to all procedures
for:
(a) The receipt and investigation of misconduct
complaints;
(b) The conduct of adjudicative and non-adjudicative
proceedings;
(c) Rulemaking submissions, considerations, and disposition
of rulemaking petitions;
(d) Public comment hearings;
(e) Declaratory rulings;
(f) Explanation of adopted rules;
(g) Voluntary surrender of licenses; and
(h) Waivers.
Source. (See
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 200) #13081, eff 7-31-20; ss
by #14089, eff 10-1-24
CHAPTER Occ 300
REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE
REVISION NOTE #1:
Document
#13243, effective 7-28-21, adopted, repealed, readopted with amendments,
readopted with amendments and renumbered, or renumbered various rules in
Chapter Occ 300. The rule adopted by
Document #13243 is titled “Application for Initial Licensure or
Certification.” Document #10901,
effective 7-29-15, had previously repealed Occ 302.05.
The
filings prior to Document #10901 which had affected the repealed Occ 302.05
included the following documents:
#8296,
eff 3-1-05
#8894,
eff 6-7-07
The
rules repealed by Document #13243 include the
following rules:
Occ
302.02 titled “Multipart Application Form”
Occ
302.03 titled “Effect of Notarized Signature”
Occ
304.06 titled “Supervision Form”
The prior
filings affecting the repealed Occ 302.02 included the following documents:
#8296, eff 3-1-05
#8894,
eff 6-7-07
#9146,
eff 4-30-08
#9950-B, eff 6-29-11
#10281, eff 2-28-13
#10554,
eff 3-26-14
#10901,
eff 7-29-15
The
prior filings affecting the repealed Occ 302.03 and Occ 304.06 included the
following documents:
#8296,
eff 3-1-05
#8894,
eff 6-7-07
#10901,
eff 7-29-15
REVISION NOTE #2:
Document
#14477, effective 3-13-26, readopted with amendment, repealed, and renumbered
chapter Occ 300. Document #14477 repealed the following sections: Occ
301.02 titled “Active in the profession”, Occ 301.06 titled “National Board of
Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT)”, Occ 304.01 titled
Eligibility for Conditional Licensure, Occ 304.02 titled Duration and Practice
Limitations of Conditional Licenses, Occ 304.03 titled Full Licensure of
Conditional Licenses, Occ 304.04 titled Administrative Obligations of Conditional
Licenses, Occ 304.05 titled Eligibility Requirements for Supervisors, Occ
304.06 titled Extension of Conditional Licenses, Occ 304.07 titled Professional
Obligations of Conditional Licenses, and Occ 304.08 titled Expiration and
Suspension of Conditional Licenses. The repealed rules mentioned above can be
found in their previous form in Document #10901 and Document #13243. All
remaining sections of Occ 300 were renumbered accordingly.
PART Occ 301 DEFINITIONS
Occ
301.01 “American Council for Occupational Therapy
Education (ACOTE)” means the component of the American Occupational Therapy
Association that establishes the core requirements for occupational therapy
education and accredits education programs of occupational therapy education,
or its successor organization.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14477, eff
3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
Occ
301.02 “Board” means “board” as defined in RSA
326-C:1, I, namely, “the occupational therapy governing board established in
RSA 328-F.”
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14477, eff
3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 301.03)
Occ
301.03 “Direct supervision” means supervision
through direct and continuous observation of the activities of the person being
supervised and includes in-person and virtual supervision.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14477, eff
3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 301.04)
Occ
301.04 “Indirect supervision” means supervision
through the supervisor's review of the treatment progress notes made by the
person supervised, telephone conversations between the supervisor and the
person supervised, electronic correspondence between the supervisor and the
person supervised, or any other form of supervision which is not defined as direct
supervision.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14477, eff
3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 301.05)
PART Occ 302
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Occ
302.01 Applications for Initial
Licensure.
(a) Applicants who wish to apply for initial
licensure as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant shall
do so by submitting to the office of professional licensure and certification
(OPLC) the following:
(1)
The completed “Universal Application for Initial License” required by
Plc 304.01;
(2)
The required information specified by Plc 304.03;
(3)
The required information and documentation required in Plc 304.04; and
(4)
The initial license fee required by Plc 1002.35.
(b) Applications shall be reviewed by the OPLC as
required by Plc 304.06 and Plc 304.08.
(c) Any applicant wishing to challenge the denial
of an application for initial licensure shall
submit a written request for a rehearing to
the OPLC within 30 days of notification of denial pursuant to Plc 206.31.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13243, eff
7-28-21; ss by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
Occ
302.02 Application for Initial
Licensure or Certification. In
addition to the information required by the application for initial licensure
required by Occ 302.01, the applicant for occupational therapist or occupational
therapy assistant licensure shall answer “yes” or “no” to the question “Have you
completed the supervised field
work experience as required by RSA 326-C:5, III?” on the “Addendum to the
Universal Application for Initial License for Occupational Therapy”, revised January 2026.
Source. #13243, eff
7-28-21; ss by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
(a) Official transcripts showing all relevant
education as described in RSA 326-C:5(c) by:
(1)
The issuing
institution(s) directly to the OPLC; or
(2)
The applicant
in one or more envelope(s) sealed by the institution(s) in such a manner that
it would be evident to the OPLC if the envelope(s) had been opened;
(b) Verification that the applicant passed the
examination sent by NBCOT directly to the OPLC; and
(c) A criminal history
records check as required pursuant to RSA 328-F:18-a.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9146, eff 4-30-08; ss by #10281, eff
2-28-13; ss by #10554, eff 3-26-14; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13243,
eff 7-28-21 (formerly Occ 302.04); ss by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
PART Occ 303
QUALIFICATIONS FOR LICENSURE
Occ
303.01 Eligibility Requirements.
(a) Applicants for initial licensure as
occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants shall meet the
requirements described below:
(1)
Be at least 17 years of age;
(2)
Be of good moral and professional character, as evidenced by:
a.
The answers to the questions from the application form; and
b.
The results of the criminal history records check required by RSA 328-F:18-a;
(3)
Have successfully completed an academic program in occupational therapy
accredited by the American Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)
or its successor organization or be NBCOT-certified; and
(4)
Have complied with the continuing competence requirements set forth in
Occ 303.02, if they are applicable.
(b) Applicants for initial licensure
as occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants who are licensed
in another jurisdiction with substantially similar requirements as defined in
Plc 313.43
shall apply for an initial license as required by Plc 313.03 through Plc
313.05.
(c) Based on the board’s determination pursuant
to RSA 332-G:7, no military experience is applicable to the education of
occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants. Military experience shall not be considered
when determining whether an applicant meets the educational requirements for
licensure.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9950-A, eff 6-29-11; amd by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #12879, eff 9-25-19; ss
by #13243, eff 7-28-21; ss by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
Occ
303.02 Continuing Competence
Requirements.
(a) Continuing competence shall be maintained by
applicants who:
(1)
Passed the NBCOT examination more than 52 weeks before submitting the
application; and
(2)
Have not practiced as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy
assistant since passing the examination.
(b) If more than 52
but fewer than 104 weeks have elapsed since such applicants passed the NBCOT
examination, they shall maintain continuing competence by:
(1)
Completing 12 hours of professional education in the clinical
application of occupational therapy skills; and
(2)
Doing so within the 12 months just preceding the submission of their
application.
(c) If 104 or more weeks have elapsed since such
applicants passed the NBCOT examination, they shall maintain continuing
competence by:
(1)
Completing 24 hours of professional education in the clinical
application of occupational therapy skills; and
(2)
Doing so within the 24 months just preceding the submission of their
application.
Source. #8296, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8894, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14477, eff
3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
PART Occ 304 the Use of Physical Agent Modalities
REVISION
NOTE:
Document
#13312, effective 12-21-21, adopted, readopted with amendments, or repealed all of the rules in Part Occ 305, and re-titled the part
heading from “Certification for the Use of Physical Agent Modalities” to “The
Use of Physical Agent Modalities.”
Document #13312 replaced all prior filings for the rules in the former
Part Occ 305. Document #13312 readopted
with amendments Occ 305.01 titled “Definitions.” Document #13312 also adopted Occ 305.02
titled “Physical Agent Modalities”, Occ 305.03 titled “Required Professional
Education”, and Occ 305.04 titled “Methods for Obtaining Required Professional
Education.”
Document
#13312 repealed the following rules:
Occ
305.02 titled “PAM Certificates Authorizing the Use of Physical Agent
Modalities
Occ
305.03 titled “Eligibility for PAM
Certificates”
Occ
305.04 titled “Requirements for
Applicants Not Currently Licensed in this State as Physical Therapists or
Physical Therapist Assistants”
Occ
305.05 titled “Required Professional
Education”
Occ
305.06 titled “Methods for Obtaining
Required Professional Education”
Occ
305.07 titled “Supervised Clinical Applications Required of all Applicants Not
Currently Licensed in this State as Physical Therapists or Physical Therapist
Assistants”
Occ
305.08 titled “Procedure for Applying
for a PAM Certificate”
Occ
305.09 titled “PAM Certificate
Application Form”
Occ
305.10 titled “Effect of Supervisor's
Signature”
Occ
305.11 titled “Required Accompanying
Documents”
The
prior filings affecting the repealed Occ 305.02 through Occ 305.07 included:
#8895, eff 6-7-07
#10901, eff 7-29-15
The
prior filings affecting the repealed Occ 305.08 though Occ 305.11 included:
#8297,
eff 3-1-05
#8895,
eff 6-7-07
#9147,
eff 4-30-08
#10901,
eff 7-29-15
Occ 304.01 Definitions. In Occ 304 the terms used shall have the
following meanings:
(a) "Electrical
stimulation modality" means a physical agent modality which consists of
the application to the body of electrical current for the purpose of analgesia,
muscle contraction, the promotion of healing, the reduction of edema, and other
therapeutic results.
(b) “Hand therapy certification commission” means
a non-profit corporation which sponsors a credentialing program for
occupational therapists and physical therapists who specialize in
upper-extremity rehabilitation.
(c) “High voltage galvanic stimulation (HVGS)”
means an electrical modality produced by a twin peak uni-directional
waveform in pulsed current and characterized by its high voltage.
(d) "Iontophoresis" means the use of
direct electrical current to deliver medication or ionized drugs topically into
a localized area of tissue.
(e) “Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)”
means an electrical modality which is used to stimulate the nerves that
correspond to a targeted muscle or muscle group, thereby causing a muscle to
contract.
(f) "Phonophoresis" means the use of
ultrasound to enhance tissue permeability to assist in the delivery of
anti-inflammatory medication.
(g) "Physical agent modality (PAM)"
means the application of temperature, water, light, sound, or electricity for
the purpose of producing a response in the body’s muscle, tendon, nerve, skin,
fascia, scar, vascular, or other part of the soft tissue system. The modality
applied is chosen by the practitioner as an adjunct to, or in preparation for,
the client’s ability to engage in occupations.
(h) "Superficial physical agent
modality" means the application to the body of thermal agents, including
but not limited to, hot packs, paraffin, fluidotherapy,
whirlpool, contrast baths, and ice packs.
(i) “Transcutaneous
electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)” means an electrical modality characterized
by the delivery of a pulsed electrical current in the form of a biphasic
asymmetrical or symmetrical waveform to the nervous system through the skin via
electrodes.
(j) "Ultrasound" means a physical agent modality using an inaudible sound
in the frequency range of approximately 20,000 to 10 billion cycles per second.
Ultrasound provides either a thermal or non-thermal therapeutic effect
depending on the type of tissue sonated, the
frequency utilized, and the mode
of delivery.
Source. #8297, eff
3-1-05; ss by #8895, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10901, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13312, eff
12-21-21; renumbered by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES 3-13-36 (formerly Occ
305.01)
Occ 304.02 Physical
Agent Modalities.
(a) An occupational
therapist who is licensed under this chapter and who has completed the
educational requirements outlined in Occ 305.03 may utilize occupational
therapy techniques involving ultrasound or electrical physical agent modality
devices.
(b) An occupational therapy assistant who is licensed under this chapter shall apply ultrasound or electrical
physical agent modalities devices only when he or she:
(1) Works under
the supervision of a qualified occupational therapist who is licensed under
this chapter; and
(2) Has
completed the educational requirements outlined in Occ 305.03 may utilize
occupational therapy techniques involving ultrasound or electrical agent
modality devices.
Source. #13312, eff
12-21-21; renumbered by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES 3-13-36 (formerly Occ
305.02)
Occ 304.03 Required Professional Education.
(a) The required
professional education relating to ultrasound modalities, including
phonophoresis, shall:
(1) Be at least
6 hours in duration for occupational therapists and occupational therapy
assistants; and
(2) Cover the
following topics:
a. Proper use
of ultrasound equipment, including:
1. The use of
treatment controls;
2. Soundhead
selection;
3. Frequency;
4. Application
method; and
5. Equipment
maintenance as it relates to overall client safety;
b. Knowledge of
the clinical use, optimal parameters, precautions and
contraindications to determine, prior to administration, the appropriateness of
ultrasound for a client;
c. Knowledge of
the physiological effect of ultrasound, including the therapeutic benefits as
well as the tissue response for both thermal and non-thermal delivery;
d.
Understanding of the optimal parameters for maximum therapeutic benefit in regards to:
1. Tissue
depth;
2. Tissue type;
3. Intensity;
4. Size of the
area to be sonated; and
5. The mode of
ultrasound delivery, including but not limited to, pulse, continuous and
medication;
e. The
appropriate selection and storage of topical drugs:
1. Prescribed
by a licensed healthcare practitioner authorized to prescribe medicine; and
2. Used in the
ultrasound treatment; and
f. The proper
positioning of the client for maximum safety and therapeutic effectiveness.
(b) The required professional education relating
to electrical stimulation modalities, including, at a minimum, NMES, TENS,
iontophoresis and HVGS, shall:
(1) Be at least
15 hours in duration for occupational therapists and occupational therapy
assistants; and
(2) Cover, for
each of the specific electrical stimulation modalities listed in (b) above, the
following topics:
a.
Electrotherapeutic terminology and biophysical principles, including
current, voltage and amplitude;
b. The normal
electrophysiology of nerve and muscle;
c. The types of
current, direct, pulsed and alternating, used for electrical stimulation;
d. The duration
and type of current appropriate for the client’s neurological status;
e. The
following common denominators of electrical currents:
1. Normal and
abnormal human responses to direct and alternating current;
2. Current flow
effect on tissue, including thermal, chemical and kinetic changes;
3. Waveforms,
including:
(i)
The true direct current of iontophoresis; and
(ii) Pulsed currents, including
monophasic, biphasic and polyphasic;
4. The
characteristics of phase, including:
(i)
Duration;
(ii) Intensity;
(iii) Charge; and
(iv) Frequency or rate;
5. The
modulation of the characteristics listed in e.4. above; and
6. The
physiological correlates of the phase characteristics listed in e.4. above;
f. The
indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions of electrotherapy,
including considerations regarding pathology of nerve and muscle tissue;
g. The
rationale and clinical indications of electrotherapy necessary
for the safe and appropriate integration in the delivery of occupational
therapy;
h. The
appropriate selection and storage of topical drugs:
1. Prescribed
by a licensed healthcare practitioner authorized to prescribe medicine; and
2. Used in
electrical stimulation treatments;
i. The proper
positioning of, and adequate instructions to, the client during application of
the modality;
j. Appropriate
education of the client as to the benefits and risks of the electrotherapeutic
treatment;
k. Knowledge of
the safe and appropriate operation of the electrical stimulation device and the
optimal parameters, including:
1. The
intensity;
2. The
frequency or rate;
3. The type of
current; and
4. The duration
of treatment; and
l. The optimal
electrode placement, including motor points and physiological effects desired.
Source. #13312, eff
12-21-21; renumbered by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES 3-13-36 (formerly Occ
305.03)
Occ 304.04 Methods for Obtaining Required
Professional Education. Professional
education described in Occ 305.03 shall be obtained through:
(a) Courses, workshops
or trainings delivered by educational institutions,
health care institutions or other entities, whether delivered at a professional
worksite or not;
(b) On-line courses; or
(c) Individualized instruction by:
(1) An
individual authorized by the regulatory body of another state to apply
ultrasound and electrical stimulation modalities;
(2) An
individual currently licensed in this state as a physical therapist; or
(3) An
individual who is currently licensed in this state as an occupational therapist
or as an occupational therapy assistant and has completed the educational
requirements outlined in Occ 305.03.
Source. #13312, eff
12-21-21; renumbered by #14477, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES 3-13-36 (formerly Occ
305.04)
CHAPTER Occ 400 CONTINUED STATUS
REVISION
NOTE:
Document #13417, effective 1-26-22, adopted, readopted with
amendments, readopted with amendments and renumbered, or repealed various rules
in Chapter Occ 400. Document #13417 also
adopted Occ 403.10 titled “Supporting Materials.”
Document #13417 also changed the heading for Part Occ 402
from “Procedures for Renewing a License and Indicating a Decision Not to Renew”
to “Procedures for Renewing a License.”
Document #13417 changed the heading for Occ 406.04 from “Receipt of Academic and
Non-Academic Instruction in Occupational Therapy” to “Receipt of Academic
Course Work, AOTA Approved Programs, and Non-Academic Conferences, Courses, and
Workshops in Occupational Therapy.” The
heading for Occ 406.05 was also changed from “Facility-Based Occupational
Therapy In-Service Training” to “Facility-Based In-Service Training as Related
to the Practice of Occupational Therapy.”
Document #13417 repealed the following rules:
Occ 402.01 titled “Procedure for Licensees Who Do
Not Wish to Renew Their Licenses”
Occ 402.04 titled “License Renewal Application
Form”
Occ 402.05 titled “Effect of the Renewal
Applicant’s Signature”
Occ 404.07 titled “Professional
Obligations of Conditionally Reinstated Licensees”
Occ 406.16 titled “Completion of Distance Learning
Courses”
Occ 406.17 titled “Teaching Occupational Therapy”
PART Occ 407
DOCUMENTATION OF MAINTENANCE OF CONTINUING COMPETENCE
Occ 407.01 titled “Documentation Requirements”
Occ 407.02 titled “Maintenance of Current NBCOT
Certification”
Occ 407.03 titled “Receipt of Academic and
Non-Academic Instruction”
Occ 407.04 titled “Facility-Based Occupational
Therapy In-Service Training”
Occ 407.05 titled “Informal Independent Study”
Occ 407.06 titled “Formal Mentored Independent
Study”
Occ 407.07 titled “Direct Supervision of Fieldwork”
Occ 407.08 titled “Employer-Required Peer Review
Activities”
Occ 407.09 titled “Publication of Writing Related
to Occupational Therapy”
Occ 407.10 titled “Public Professional
Presentations Relating to Occupational Therapy”
Occ 407.11 titled “Participation in an Occupational
Therapy Research Project”
Occ 407.12 titled “Specialty Certifications”
Occ 407.13 titled “Product Development”
Occ 407.14 titled “Participation in the Work of
Professional Boards, Committees and Agencies”
Occ 407.15 titled “Completion of Distance Learning
Courses”
Occ 407.16 titled “Teaching Occupational Therapy”
Occ 407.17 titled “Cardiopulmonary Certification or
Re-Certification”
Occ 407.18 titled “Receipt of Universal Precaution
Education”
Occ 408.12 titled “Storage of Medications for
Physical Agent Modalities”
The prior filings affecting the repealed Occ 402.01
included:
#8896, eff 6-7-07
#9148, eff 4-30-08
#10901, eff 7-29-15
The prior filings affecting the repealed Occ 402.04
included:
#8297, eff 3-1-05
#8895, eff 6-7-07
#9147, eff 4-30-08
#10901, eff 7-29-15
The prior filings affecting the
repealed Occ 402.04 included:
#8896, eff 6-7-07
#9148, eff 4-30-08 (from Occ 402.03)
#9951-B, eff
6-29-11
#10283, eff 2-28-13
#10555, eff 3-26-14
#10902, eff 7-29-15
The prior filings affecting the
repealed Occ 402.05 included:
#8896, eff 6-7-07
#9148, eff 4-30-08 (from Occ 402.04)
#10902, eff 7-29-15
The prior filings affecting the
repealed Occ 404.07 included:
#8896, eff 6-7-07
#10555, eff 3-26-14
The prior filings affecting
the repealed Occ 406.16, Occ 406.17, all rules in Part Occ 407, and Occ 408.12
included:
#8896, eff 6-7-07
#10902, eff 7-29-15
The repeals in Part Occ 402 necessitated the renumbering of
Occ 402.02 and Occ 402.03 as Occ 402.01 and Occ 402.02, the renumbering of Occ
402.06 through Occ 402.08 as Occ 402.03 through Occ 402.05, and the renumbering
of Occ 402.10 as Occ 402.07, which were also readopted with amendments. Occ 402.09 was renumbered as Occ 402.06 but
was not readopted by Document #13417.
The repeal of Occ 404.07 necessitated the renumbering of
Occ 404.08 and Occ 404.09 as Occ 404.07 and Occ 404.08, which were readopted
with amendment.
The repeal of Part Occ 407 and Occ 408.12 necessitated the
renumbering of Occ 408.01 through Occ 408.11 as Occ 407.01 through Occ 407.11,
and the renumbering of Occ 408.13 as Occ 407.12. But of the rules in the former Part Occ 408,
only Occ 408.10, which was readopted with amendment and renumbered as Occ
407.10, was included in Document #13417.
Source notes for the rules readopted with amendment and renumbered, or simply renumbered, indicate the former rule
number.
PART Occ 401 DEFINITIONS
Occ
401.01 "Direct supervision"
means supervision through direct and continuous observation of the activities
of the person being supervised and includes in-person and virtual supervision.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 401.03)
Occ 401.02 "Indirect supervision" means
supervision through the supervisor's review of the treatment progress notes
made by the person supervised, telephone conversations between the supervisor
and the person supervised, electronic correspondence between the supervisor and
the person supervised, or any other form of supervision which is not defined as
direct supervision.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 401.04)
Occ 401.03
"Supervision" means a cooperative process in which 2 or more
people participate in a joint effort to establish, maintain, or elevate a level
of competence and performance.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss and renumbered by
#10902, eff 7-29-15 (from Occ 401.06); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 401.07)
Occ 401.04 "Supportive
tasks" means tasks or treatment which facilitate the delivery of
occupational therapy, are routine, and are easily learned by unlicensed persons.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss and renumbered by
#10902, eff 7-29-15 (from Occ 401.07);
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 401.08)
PART Occ 402
PROCEDURES FOR RENEWING A LICENSE
Occ
402.01 License Renewal Procedure.
(a) A licensee wishing to renew their current
license shall complete and submit the following:
(1)
A “Universal Application for License Renewal” as required in Plc 308.05,
that provides the information required by Plc 308.06, the additional
information and documentation required by Plc 308.07, and is signed and
attested to as required by Plc 308.08;
(2) Occupational
therapy assistants who are employed occupational therapy assistants at the time
of submitting
their application for license renewal shall print their name and indicate on the
“Addendum to the Universal Application for License Renewal for Occupational
Therapy Assistants” revised 1/2026, whether they have submitted complete supervision form(s) as
required by Occ 406.10, that are signed and dated; and
(3)
The application fees identified in Plc
1002.35.
(b) Pursuant to RSA 310:8, III, licenses
to be renewed shall lapse if the renewal applicants do not submit the completed
renewal application, the application related fees for renewal, and any
supporting documents required for renewal on or before the license expiration
date.
(c) Renewal applicants whose licenses have
expired shall not practice occupational
therapy until their licenses have been reinstated by the office of professional
licensure and certification (OPLC).
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9148, eff 4-30-08
(from Occ 402.01); ss by #10555, eff 3-26-14; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22
(formerly Occ 402.02); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
Occ
402.02
Renewal Application Processing
Procedures.
(a) The OPLC shall process applications for
license renewal in accordance with Plc 308.09 and Plc 308.11.
(b) A renewal applicant wishing to challenge the
denial of an application for license renewal shall complete and submit a
“Petition for Hearing After Initial Denial of Licensure” as required by Plc
308.12.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9148, eff 4-30-08
(from Occ 402.06); ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by
#13417, eff 7-26-22 (formerly Occ 402.07); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26,
EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 402.04)
Occ
402.03 Audit Procedure. Plc 308.04 shall govern the process for
continuing competence documentation and audits.
Source. #10555, eff 3-26-14 (from Occ 402.09); ss by
#13417, eff 7-26-22 (formerly Occ 402.10); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 402.07)
PART Occ 403
REINSTATEMENT OF LICENSES
Occ 403.01 Licenses Subject to Reinstatement.
(a) To request reinstatement of an expired license not more
than one year after the license expired, the former licensee shall comply with
Plc 312.02 and complete the process for renewing a license as specified in Plc
308.
(b) An individual whose license has been expired more than
one year who wishes to obtain a license shall comply with Plc 312.03 and apply
for initial licensure as specified in Plc 304.
(c)
An individual whose license was suspended who wishes to
have the license restored shall apply as required by Plc 312.04.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9148, eff 4-30-08;
ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
PART Occ 404 REVOCATION,
SUSPENSION,
AND OTHER SANCTIONS
Occ
404.01 Definitions. "Sexual misconduct" means engaging
in one or more of the following activities with respect to a client:
(a) Engaging in sexual relations, whether
consensual or non-consensual;
(b) Making sexual advances;
(c) Requesting sexual favors; or
(d) Engaging in physical contact of a sexual
nature.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff
7-29-15); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.01)
Occ
404.02 Misconduct. Misconduct shall be:
(a) Knowingly or negligently providing inaccurate
material information to the OPLC or failing to provide complete and truthful
material information upon inquiry by the OPLC, including during the process of
applying for a license, license renewal, or license reinstatement;
(b) Conviction of any criminal offense involving:
(1)
Injury to a victim;
(2)
The risk of such injury; or
(3)
Dishonesty;
(c) Failure to report to the OPLC a conviction
described in (b) above within 30 days;
(d) Violation of the ethical standards adopted by
the board;
(e) Engaging in sexual misconduct;
(f) Violation of any provision of this chapter;
(g) Actual or potential inability to render care
with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, by reason of use of
alcohol or drugs, or any other material, or by reason of mental or physical
condition;
(h) The imposition of disciplinary action by a
regulatory authority in another domestic or foreign jurisdiction;
(i) Failure to take
appropriate action to safeguard individuals from incompetent counselors and
health care practitioners, whether or not they are
licensed in this state;
(j) Practice without a currently valid license;
and
(k) Violation of:
(1)
Any provision of RSA 328-F;
(2)
Any provision of RSA 326-C;
(3)
Any rule adopted by the board ; or
(4)
Any state or federal law reasonably related to the licensee's authority
to practice or the licensee's ability to practice safely.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.02)
Occ
404.03 Sanctions. Disciplinary measures
available to the board to sanction misconduct shall be governed by RSA 310:12.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.03)
Occ
404.04 Procedure for Imposition of Sanctions. Other than immediate license suspension
authorized by RSA 541-A:30, III, Plc 311.09 shall
govern the procedures for imposing sanctions.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.04)
Occ
404.05 Determinations Required for Sanctions.
Plc 311.10 shall govern the
method for determining sanctions.
Source.
#8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26,
EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.05)
Occ
404.06 Standards for the Selection of Sanctions. Plc 311.11 shall govern the standards for the
selection of sanctions.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 405.06)
PART Occ 405 ONGOING REQUIREMENTS
Occ
405.01 Definitions.
(a) "Current best evidence" means
methods of intervention determined by the profession of occupational therapy,
based on research or professional peer review, to be the accepted and optimal
ones.
(b) "Standardized assessment" means a
test using standard procedures, requiring individuals taking it to respond to
identical questions under the same conditions and directions, and administered
and scored in a consistent manner.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.01); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.01)
Occ
405.02 Referral Not Required. Occupational therapy services can be provided
without a referral, subject to regulatory and payer requirements pursuant to
RSA 326-C:2. A referral shall not be required for a
licensed occupational therapist to provide:
(a) Consultation;
(b) Screening, evaluation, and re-evaluation of
clients;
(c) Wellness services;
(d) Prevention services; and
(e) Special education related occupational
therapy services.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15; renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.02); ss by
#14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.02)
Occ
405.03 Screening,
Evaluation, and Re-Evaluation of Clients.
(a) An occupational therapist shall:
(1)
Initiate and direct the screening, evaluation, and re-evaluation
processes;
(2)
Analyze and interpret the resulting data; and
(3)
Document the results of the screening, evaluation, or re-evaluation.
(b) The occupational therapist shall evaluate the
client’s ability to participate in daily life activities by considering the
client’s capacities and activities, and the environments
in which the activities occur.
(c) An occupational therapy assistant shall
contribute to the screening, evaluation, and re-evaluation processes by:
(1)
Administering standardized assessments and other delegated screenings;
(2)
Providing verbal and written reports to the occupational therapist about
the assistant's observations and the client's capacities; and
(3)
Contributing to the documentation of the results.
(d) An occupational therapist and an occupational
therapy assistant shall follow the instructions specifically designed for
performing a standardized assessment when administering such an assessment.
(e) An occupational therapist and an occupational therapy assistant shall communicate
screening, evaluation, and re-evaluation results within the boundaries of client
confidentiality.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.03); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.03)
Occ
405.04 Treatment Plan and Treatment. Except for services identified in Occ 406.02
above, the following shall apply:
(a) Treatment of individuals with medically
related conditions shall be initiated only after:
(1)
A referral from a licensed physician, a licensed physician assistant, a
licensed advanced registered nurse practitioner, a licensed chiropractor, a
licensed optometrist, or any other licensed health care professional who has
authority to refer for healthcare services; and
(2)
An evaluation by an occupational therapist.
(b) For any client, the occupational therapist
shall:
(1)
Develop the client's initial plan for treatment, including identified
treatment goals;
(2)
Ensure that the initial treatment plan and any revision in the treatment
plan are documented;
(3)
Revise the treatment plan throughout the treatment process;
(4)
Document changes in the client’s needs, goals, and performance; and
(5)
Maintain overall responsibility for the following aspects of the
treatment plan:
a.
Its development;
b.
Any revision;
c.
Its documentation; and
d.
Its implementation.
(c) An initial treatment plan shall be based on
the evaluation, client goals, current best evidence, and clinical reasoning.
(d) An occupational therapist or an occupational
therapy assistant shall review the treatment plan with the client, and others
authorized by the client, regarding the plan’s:
(1)
Rationale;
(2)
Safety issues; and
(3)
Relative benefits and risks.
(e) Either an occupational therapist or an
occupational therapy assistant shall implement the client’s treatment plan.
(f) An occupational therapy assistant shall
select, implement, and modify therapeutic activities and interventions only if
doing so is consistent with:
(1)
The occupational therapy assistant’s demonstrated competency;
(2)
The occupational therapy assistant's delegated responsibilities; and
(3)
The client's treatment plan.
(g) An occupational therapy assistant shall
contribute to the modification of the treatment plan by:
(1)
Exchanging information with the occupational therapist as part of direct
on-site supervision by the occupational therapist; and
(2)
Providing documentation to the occupational therapist about the client’s
responses to and communications throughout the intervention.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.04); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.04)
Occ
405.05 Discontinuation of Services.
(a) An occupational therapist shall make the
decision about discontinuing services.
(b) Services shall be discontinued when:
(1)
The client has achieved identified treatment goals;
(2)
The client has reached maximum benefit from treatment; or
(3)
The client does not desire to continue
services.
(c) An occupational therapy assistant shall
contribute to the decision about discontinuing services by providing
information and documentation to the occupational therapist related to the
client’s needs, goals, performance, and follow-up resources.
(d) Occupational therapists and occupational
therapy assistants shall bill only for occupational therapy services that:
(1)
Were actually provided;
(2) Were provided by licensed occupational
therapists or occupational therapy assistants; and
(3)
Have supporting documentation.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.05); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.05)
Occ
405.06 Supervision of Occupational Therapy
Assistants.
(a) Occupational therapy assistants shall be
supervised in their work in occupational therapy by occupational therapists:
(1)
Who meet the description in Occ 407.07;
(2)
In accordance with the requirements of (b), (c), and (d) below; and
(3)
For periods longer than those set forth in (b), (c), and (d)
below whenever such longer periods are required for accurate implementation of
treatment plans.
(b) Occupational therapy assistants with less
than one year of paid experience in occupational therapy shall be directly supervised at least 5% of their work time and indirectly supervised an additional 10% of their work time.
(c) Occupational therapy assistants with one to 5
years of paid experience in occupational therapy shall be directly supervised
during at least 5% of their work time and indirectly supervised an additional
5% of their work time.
(d) Occupational therapy assistants with greater
than 5 years of paid experience in occupational therapy shall receive both
direct and indirect supervision during 5% of their work time.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.06); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.06)
Occ
405.07 Qualifications to be a Supervisor. To qualify to supervise occupational therapy assistants individuals shall be:
(a) Currently licensed in New Hampshire as an occupational
therapist for a minimum of one year;
(b) Not under disciplinary investigation by the
OPLC, another state or jurisdiction, or under pending disciplinary
charges in the facilities where supervision is to take place; and
(c) Not related in any of the following ways to
the occupational therapy assistants being supervised:
(1)
Spouse;
(2)
Parent, step-parent, parent-in-law, or step-parent in-law;
(3)
Natural, foster or adopted child, or stepchild;
(4)
Sibling, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law;
(5)
First or second cousin;
(6)
Grandparent; or
(7)
Aunt or uncle.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.07); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.07)
Occ
405.08 Limitation on Number of Occupational Therapy Assistants Under
Supervision. An occupational
therapist shall not supervise at any one time more occupational therapy
assistants than those whose combined work hours total the work hours of 2
full-time occupational therapy assistants.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #9308, eff 10-29-08;
ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15; renumbered by #13417
(formerly Occ 408.08); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly
Occ 407.08)
(a) Before beginning work in occupational
therapy, an occupational therapy assistant shall:
(1)
Give to the person intending to provide supervision to the assistant a
copy of Occ 400
and the supervision form described in Occ 407.10;
(2)
Discuss the supervision requirements with the person intending to
provide supervision; and
(3)
Submit to the OPLC the completed supervision form.
(b) An occupational therapy assistant shall
submit a revised or additional supervision form to the OPLC:
(1)
Within 30 days of the date of change each time there is a change in the
person providing supervision to the assistant; and
(2)
Whenever the occupational therapy assistant begins work for any other
employer as an occupational therapy assistant.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.09); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.09)
Occ
405.10 Supervision Form.
(a) The “Supervision Form” shall be submitted by
applicants seeking renewal of their occupational therapy assistants license to
document their supervision.
(b) The “Supervision Form” shall:
(1) Include the information specified in (c) and (d), below
and;
(2) Be signed and dated by the supervisor below
the following preprinted statement which asserts:
“By
signing this form I state that I have read and understood the applicable rules
of supervision and
agree to undertake the duties of supervision set forth in the rules or
order of the Board, agree to be responsible for the acts and omissions of any
person to whom I delegate the duties of supervision, and acknowledge that my
own or my delegate's failure to comply with the rules or order of the Board
might result in disciplinary sanctions.”
(c) The first section of the “Supervision Form”,
shall be completed by the person being supervised and shall include:
(1) The name and license number of the person
being supervised;
(2) A description of the purpose of the
supervision; and
(3) The name, mailing address, and telephone
number of the place of employment of the person being supervised.
(d) The subsequent section of the “Supervision Form” shall
be completed by the supervisor and shall include:
(1) The name, profession, license number, and
state of licensure of the supervisor;
(2) The name, mailing address, and telephone
number of the supervisor’s place of employment;
(3) The name, location, and phone number of the
site where the supervision will take place; and
(4) The dates the supervision started and ended.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (formerly Occ 408.10); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26,
EXPIRES: 3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.10)
Occ
405.11 Licensees'
Delegation of Supportive Tasks to Unlicensed Individuals.
(a) A licensee shall delegate supportive tasks to
an unlicensed individual only when:
(1)
The anticipated outcome of such tasks is predictable;
(2)
The client and the client's environment are sufficiently stable that
judgment, interpretations, and adaptations by the unlicensed individual will not be
required;
(3)
The client has previously demonstrated some ability to perform the
client's part of the tasks; and
(4)
The licensee has taught the unlicensed individual the delegated tasks or
is satisfied on the basis of a demonstration that the
unlicensed individual is competent to perform the tasks.
(b) When delegating supportive tasks to an
unlicensed individual
the licensee shall ensure that the unlicensed individual:
(1)
Is trained and able to demonstrate competence in carrying out the
supportive tasks and in using any equipment which might be required;
(2)
Has been instructed in how to carry out the supportive tasks with the particular client involved; and
(3)
Knows the precautions, signs, and symptoms for that particular
client which would indicate the need to seek assistance from the
licensee.
(c) A licensee delegating supportive tasks to an
unlicensed shall:
(1)
Directly supervise the unlicensed individual when that individual
performs tasks of client care during the treatment of an occupational therapy
client; and
(2)
Indirectly supervise the unlicensed individual at all other times.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by #10902, eff 7-29-15;
renumbered by #13417 (formerly Occ 408.11); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES:
3-13-36 (formerly Occ 407.11)
Occ 405.12
Administrative
Obligations of Licensees. Licensees shall:
(a)
Maintain their current business address, home addresses, and e-mail
address with the OPLC;
(b)
Notify the OPLC of any change in addresses listed in (a) above no
later than 30
days from the date of the change; and
(c)
Retain documentation of their continuing professional education and
professional activities for at least 3 years.
Source. #8896, eff
6-7-07; ss by #9951-A, eff 6-29-11; ss by #10283, eff 2-28-13; renumbered by
#13417 (formerly Occ 408.13); ss by #14478, eff 3-13-26, EXPIRES: 3-13-36
(formerly Occ 407.12)
PART Occ 406 MAINTENANCE OF
CONTINUING COMPETENCE
Occ 406.01 Definitions. In Occ 406 the following terms shall have the
following meanings:
(a) "American Occupational Therapy
Association (AOTA)" means the national professional association of
occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and students of
occupational therapy, organized with the purpose to advance the quality,
availability, use, and support of occupational therapy through
standard-setting, advocacy, education, and research on behalf of its members
and the public.
(b)
"Certification in Hand Therapy (CHT)" means a certification
issued by the hand therapy certification commission, a non-profit corporation
which sponsors a credentialing program for occupational therapists and physical
therapists who specialize in upper-extremity rehabilitation.
(c)
“Contact hour” means a unit of measure of continuing professional
education or professional activity.
(d)
“Continuing professional education or professional activity" means
structured courses, activities and experiences beyond entry-level professional
preparation that are designed to provide advanced or enhanced knowledge in the
field of occupational therapy.
(e)
"Distance-learning" means electronic participation in
continuing competence activities described in Occ 406.02(d) so long as the
participation can be proven with the appropriate document described in Occ 406.
(f)
"Level II fieldwork student" means a student who is in the
clinical component of his or her academic program and is provided with the
opportunity to integrate academic knowledge with the application of therapeutic
skills in a supervised practice setting.
(g)
“Maintenance of continuing competence” means using a dynamic
multidimensional process to develop and maintain for the purpose of performing professional responsibilities the
following abilities:
(1) Knowledge;
(2) Performance skills;
(3) Interpersonal abilities;
(4) Critical reasoning; and
(5) Ethical reasoning.
(h)
"Certification in neurodevelopmental
treatment (NDT)" means a certification issued by the Neurodevelopmental
Treatment Association, a non-profit corporation which sponsors certification
courses for occupational therapists and physical therapists who specialize in
neurodevelopmental treatment.
(i) "Universal precaution
education" means didactic education addressing infectious diseases,
including but not limited to, HIV and hepatitis B, and addressing the
precautions to be taken when such diseases are present in clients.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.02 Maintenance of
Continuing Competence.
(a) Licensees intending to renew their licensure shall maintain continuing
competence by:
(1)
Completing 24 contact hours of continuing professional education per biennium
in accordance with (d) below if they are renewing:
a. An initial license issued in
an even-numbered year; or
b. A license already
renewed at least once; or
(2) Completing 6 contact hours
of continuing professional education in accordance with (d) below if
they are renewing an initial license issued between January 1 and August 31 in
an odd-numbered year.
(b) At least one half of the
contact hours required by (a) above shall relate directly to the clinical
application of occupational therapy and these hours shall be considered
clinical hours.
(c)
The balance of the contact hours required by (a) above shall relate to
general occupational therapy theory and practice, including, but not limited
to, supervision and consultation skills, curriculum development and
trans-disciplinary issues or skills.
(d)
Continuing competence shall be accumulated through on-site,
distance-learning or other participation in the following activities related to
occupational therapy:
(1) Maintenance of current
NBCOT certification, as further described in Occ 406.03
(2) Receipt of academic
instruction and non-academic conferences, courses, and workshops in
occupational therapy, as further described in Occ 406.04;
(3) Facility-based in-service
training as related to the practice of occupational therapy, as further
described in Occ 406.05;
(4) Informal independent study
as further described in Occ 406.06;
(5) Formal mentored independent
study as further described in Occ 406.07;
(6) Direct supervision of
fieldwork, as further described in Occ 406.08;
(7) Employer-required peer review
activities, as further described in Occ 406.09;
(8) Publication of writing related
to occupational therapy, as further described in Occ 406.10;
(9) Public professional
presentations relating to occupational therapy, as further described in Occ
406.11;
(10)
Participation in an occupational therapy research project, as further
described in Occ 406.12;
(11) Specialty certifications,
as further described in Occ 406.13;
(12) Product development, as
further described in Occ 406.14;
(13) Participation in the work of
professional boards, committees, and agencies, as further described in Occ
406.15;
(14)
Cardiopulmonary certification or re-certification, as further described
in Occ 406.16; and
(15)
Receipt of universal precaution education, as further described in Occ
406.17.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10283, eff 2-28-13; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.03 Maintenance
of NBCOT Certification.
(a) The board shall recognize
as maintenance of continuing competence a licensee's maintenance of current
NBCOT certification.
(b)
Maintenance of NBCOT certification shall fulfill the requirements of Occ
406.02(a), (b) and (c) for the biennium.
(c)
Documentation of maintenance of continuing competence for NBCOT
certification shall be a photocopy of the front and back of the certificate
issued by NBCOT.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.04 Receipt of
Academic Course Work, AOTA Approved
Programs, and Non-Academic Conferences,
Courses, and Workshops in Occupational Therapy.
(a)
The Board shall recognize academic
coursework and documentation as follows:
(1) Receipt of
academic course work shall be a licensee's completion of academic course work
in occupational therapy sponsored and assigned credit by a college or
university;
(2) Credit for academic course work shall be 15
contact hours for each credit hour of academic course work; and
(3) Documentation of successful completion of
academic course work shall be:
a. An official transcript showing successful
completion of the course and the date of the course; and
b. One of the following descriptions of the
course:
1. The description of the course copied from the
college or university catalogue; or
2. The course syllabus.
(b) The board shall
recognize AOTA approved provider programs and documentation as follows:
(1) Credit for
AOTA approved programs shall be a licensee's completion of any continuing education program given by
a provider approved by AOTA.
(2) Credit for
completing an AOTA approved program shall be the contact hours attributed to
the program by the provider.
(3) Documentation of attendance at
programs of AOTA-approved providers shall be an official certificate showing:
a. The licensee’s name;
b. The name and location of the
program;
c. The name of the provider;
d. The beginning and ending
date(s) of the program;
e. The name of the speaker or
instructor;
f. The number of hours credited by
the provider; and
g. The signature of the
representative of the provider or sponsoring entity.
(c) The board
shall recognize courses, seminars, conferences and workshops as follows:
(1) Credit for shall be completion
of courses, seminars, conferences and workshops not described by (a) or (b) above if they are primarily on the topics
of:
a.
Occupational therapy theory or practice or both; or
b. Any
conditions for which occupational therapy is often or
usually recommended;
(2) Each
clock hour of attendance at such courses, seminars, conferences, and workshops
shall equal one contact hour.
(3) Documentation of attendance at non-academic
courses, seminars, conferences, and workshops shall be an official certificate
showing:
a. The licensee’s name;
b. The name and location of the course, seminar,
conference, or workshop;
c. The name of the sponsoring entity;
d. The beginning and ending date(s) of the
course, seminar, conference, or workshop;
e. The name of the speaker or instructor;
f. The number of hours credited by the
sponsoring entity; and
g. The signature of the speaker, the instructor
or sponsoring entity.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.05 Facility-Based
In-Service Training as Related to the Practice of Occupational
Therapy.
(a) The board shall
recognize as maintenance of continuing competence a licensee's participation
in, or attendance at, a facility-based in-service training as related to the
practice of occupational therapy consisting in an informal exchange of
information at a staff meeting of 2 hours or less.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for each clock
hour of participation or attendance, to a maximum of 8 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of participation in facility-based occupational
therapy in-service training shall be a memo from the occupational therapy
supervisor of the facility showing:
(1) The licensee's name;
(2) The name of the facility and the topic of the
in-service training;
(3) The name of the speaker or instructor, if
any; and
(4) The date of the in-service training and the
licensee's hours of attendance.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.06 Informal
Independent Study.
(a) The board shall recognize
informal independent study in occupational therapy as maintenance of continuing
competence.
(b)
Informal independent study shall
include but not be limited to:
(1)
Reading occupational therapy-related books and journals; and
(2)
Viewing video recorded
occupational therapy-related information.
(c) The board shall credit the
licensee with one contact hour for every 2 clock hours of informal independent
study to a maximum of 4 contact hours, provided that the licensee writes a
report of the major theses of the book, journal, video recorded information.
(d)
Documentation of informal independent study shall be:
(1) The
licensee’s signed written statement setting forth, for each item read or video
viewed:
a. The title of the item read or video viewed;
b. The author and publisher of the item read or
video viewed;
c. The clock hours spent in
reading or viewing; and
d. The date of completion of the reading or
viewing; and
(2) The licensee's report of the major thesis of
the item read or viewed.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.07 Formal
Mentored Independent Study.
(a) The board shall
recognize formal mentored independent study in occupational therapy as
maintenance of continuing competence so
long as the study is performed under a written and signed mentorship agreement
setting forth:
(1) The name of the mentor; and
(2) The goals and objectives to be
met by the mentored licensee during the course of his
or her study.
(b) The board shall credit
the licensee with one contact hour for every 2 clock hours of formal mentored
independent study, to a maximum of 4 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of formal mentored independent study shall be:
(1) A copy of the signed mentorship agreement; or
(2) The licensee's signed written statement
describing the mentor-assigned study showing:
a. The dates of the study;
b. The hours spent on the study; and
c. The focus and outcome of the study.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.08 Direct
Supervision of Fieldwork.
(a) The board shall
recognize as maintenance of continuing competence the direct supervision of
fieldwork when the licensee acts as the primary fieldwork instructor for a
level I or level II fieldwork student.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour per one week
of supervision per student supervised, to a max of 14 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of direct supervision of
field work shall be a memo signed by the supervisor of the facility where the
fieldwork was supervised, specifying:
(1) The name of the licensee;
(2) The fieldwork student's
school; and
(3) The beginning and ending dates
of the licensee's supervision of the student's fieldwork.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.09 Employer-Required Peer Review Activities.
(a) The board
shall recognize as maintenance of continuing competence employer-required peer
review activities, including such activities by the licensee
as peer ratings, chart audits and direct observation of the work of the
licensee's peers.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for each peer
review activity, to a maximum of 4 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of employer-required peer review activities shall be a
memo signed by the facility supervisor specifying:
(1) The name of the licensee;
(2) The peer review activity or activities of the
licensee; and
(3) The dates of the activity or activities.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.10 Publication of Writing Related to
Occupational Therapy.
(a) The board shall recognize
publication of writing related to occupational therapy, including books,
peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed chapters of books and peer-reviewed and
non-peer-reviewed articles, as maintenance of continuing competence.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee as
follows for no more than 2 published writings:
(1) For a book, 12 contact hours;
(2) For a peer-reviewed chapter of
a book or a peer-reviewed article, 6 contact hours; and
(3) For a non-peer reviewed
chapter or article, 4 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of the publication of
writing related to occupational therapy shall be any item showing:
(1) The title of the writing;
(2) The date of publication; and
(3) The licensee's part or full authorship of the
published writing.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.11 Public
Professional Presentations Relating to Occupational Therapy.
(a) The board shall recognize
public professional presentations relating to occupational therapy, including
workshops, lectures, poster presentations, and in-service trainings, as
maintenance of continuing competence.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with 2 contact hours for each clock
hour of a public presentation and 2 contact hours per poster presentation, to a
maximum of 12 contact hours, provided that, if the licensee gives substantially
the same public presentation more than once, the board shall credit the
licensee for only a single presentation.
(c)
Documentation of public professional
presentations relating to occupational therapy shall be:
(1) A copy of the official program
of the presentation; or
(2) Written verification signed by
a representative of the program's sponsor showing:
a. The title of the presentation;
b. The name of the licensee as
presenter;
c. The date of the presentation;
d. The hours during which the
presentation took place; and
e. The type of audience attending
the presentation.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.12 Participation in an Occupational Therapy
Research Project.
(a) The board shall recognize
participation in an occupational therapy research project as maintenance of
continuing competence.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for every 4
clock hours spent on a research project, to a maximum of 8 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of participation in an occupational therapy research
project shall be a statement signed by either the principal investigator or a
representative of the grant sponsor showing:
(1) The name of the research project;
(2) The beginning and ending dates of the
licensee's participation; and
(3) The licensee's role in the research project.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.13 Specialty
Certifications.
(a) The board shall recognize as maintenance of continuing competence the receipt during the
biennium by a licensee of:
(1) An initial AOTA board certification in:
a. Geriatrics;
b. Mental
health;
c. Pediatrics;
or
d. Physical
disabilities;
(2) An
initial AOTA specialty certification;
(3) An initial
certification in neurodevelopmental therapy; or
(4) A certification in hand therapy.
(b) The board shall credit
the licensee with 12 contact hours for a board certification named in (a)(1)
above, to a maximum of 12 contact hours.
(c)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for each 4
clock hours the licensee spent in preparation for a specialty certification
named in (a)(2) above, to a maximum of 12 contact hours.
(d)
Receipt of initial certification in neurodevelopmental therapy shall
fulfill the requirements of Occ 406.02(a), (b) and (c) for the biennium.
(e)
Receipt of certification in hand therapy shall fulfill the requirements
of Occ 406.02(a), (b) and (c) for the current biennium and the following
biennium.
(f)
Documentation of receipt of a certification shall be a photocopy of the
front and back of the certificate.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.14 Product
Development.
(a) The board shall
recognize as maintenance of continuing competence the development of a product
related to occupational therapy and disseminated by a manufacturer,
distributor, publisher or government agency.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with 4 contact hours for the
development of a product described in (a) above, to a maximum of 4 contact
hours.
(c)
Documentation of product development shall be a letter or other
written statement from the disseminating entity acknowledging the licensee as
the developer.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.15 Participation in the Work of Professional
Boards, Committees and Agencies.
(a) The board shall recognize
as maintenance of continuing competence the participation by a licensee in the
work of a board or committee of a professional occupational therapy
organization or government agency.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with 2 contact hours for each board,
committee or agency served, to a maximum of 4 contact
hours.
(c)
Documentation of participation in the work of a professional
board, committee or agency shall be a letter:
(1) Issued by:
a. The authority appointing the licensee to the
board, committee or agency; or
b. The board, committee or agency served by the
licensee.
(2) That states:
a. The appointment of the licensee to the board,
committee or agency; or
b. The fact of the licensee's participation and
the beginning and ending dates of the licensee's service.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (see Revision Note at chapter
heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.16 Cardiopulmonary Certification
or Re-certification.
(a) The board shall recognize
as maintenance of continuing competence a licensee's certification or
re-certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for each clock
hour spent in preparation for certification or re-certification in
cardiopulmonary resuscitation, to a maximum of 4 contact hours.
(c)
Documentation of cardiopulmonary
certification or recertification shall be a photocopy of the front and back of
the certificate showing date of issuance.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (formerly Occ 406.18) (see
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 400)
Occ 406.17 Receipt
of Universal Precaution Education.
(a) The board shall recognize
as maintenance of continuing competence a licensee's receipt of infection
control education.
(b)
The board shall credit the licensee with one contact hour for each clock
hour spent in receipt of infection control education, to a maximum of 2 contact
hours.
(c)
Documentation of universal precaution
education shall be a photocopy of a certificate of attendance, or a statement
signed by the supervisor of the facility where the education took place.
Source. #8896, eff 6-7-07; ss by
#10902, eff 7-29-15; ss by #13417, eff 7-26-22 (formerly Occ 406.19) (see
Revision Note at chapter heading for Occ 400)
CHAPTER Occ 500 ETHICAL STANDARDS
PART Occ 501 DEFINITIONS
Occ 501.01 "American Occupational Therapy
Association, Inc. (AOTA)" means the entity recognized as the national
professional organization of occupational therapists and occupational therapy
assistants.
Source. #8275, eff 1-26-05; ss by #10282, eff 2-28-13;
ss by #13678, eff 8-25-23
PART Occ 502 BINDING ETHICAL STANDARDS
Occ
502.01 AOTA Code of Ethics as Binding
Ethical Standards.
(a) The ethical standards binding licensed
occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants shall be the
Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics adopted and copyrighted in 2015 and revised 2020 by The American
Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. as modified in (b) below, and available
as noted in Appendix II.
(b) The preamble of the Occupational Therapy Code
of Ethics adopted and copyrighted in 2020 by The American Occupational Therapy
Association shall not be part of the ethical standards binding licensees.
Source. #8275, eff 1-26-05; ss by #9881, eff 3-2-11;
ss by #12003, eff 10-14-16; ss by #13295, eff 11-30-21
Source. #8275, eff 1-26-05; ss by #10282, eff 2-28-13;
ss by #13678, eff 8-25-23
Appendix I
|
Rule |
Specific
State Statute the Rule Implements |
|
|
|
|
Occ 101 through Occ 102 |
RSA 541-A:16, I(a) |
|
Occ 103.01 |
RSA 328-F:4, V |
|
Occ 103.02 |
2023, 79:281 |
|
Occ 103.03(a) |
RSA 328-F:11(a) |
|
Occ 103.03(b) |
RSA 326-F:11(b) |
|
Occ 103.03(c) |
RSA 328-F:11(e) |
|
Occ 103.03(d) |
RSA 328-F:11(g) |
|
Occ 103.04 |
RSA 541-A:16, I(a) |
|
Occ 103.05 |
RSA 91-A:2, II; RSA 541-A:16, I(a) |
|
|
|
|
Occ 200 |
RSA 541-A:16, I(b)-(d) |
|
Occ 201.01 |
RSA 328-F:13 |
|
|
|
|
Occ 301.01 |
RSA 328-F:5, VI |
|
Occ 301.02 |
RSA 326-C:1, I |
|
Occ 301.03 – Occ 301.04 |
RSA 328-F:5, VI |
|
Occ 302.01 |
RSA 310:6, II, RSA 328-F:11, I(a) |
|
Occ 302.02 – Occ 302.03 |
RSA 328-F:11, I(a) |
|
Occ 303.01 |
RSA 328-F:11, I(a); RSA 326-C:5, I(b) |
|
Occ 303.02 |
RSA 326-C:6, I(b) |
|
Occ 304.01 |
RSA 541-A:7 |
|
Occ 304.02 – Occ 304.04 |
RSA 326-C:7 and RSA 326-C:8, pursuant to 2021, 41
(HB 369-FN), eff. 7-16-21 |
|
|
|
|
Occ 401.01 – Occ 401.04 |
RSA 541-A:16, I(b |
|
Occ 402.01 |
RSA 326-C:6, I |
|
Occ 402.02 |
RSA 310:8 |
|
Occ 402.03 |
RSA 328-F:11, I(c) |
|
Occ 403.01 |
2023, 79:281, XIV |
|
Occ 404.01 – Occ 404.06 |
RSA 328-F:11, I(d) |
|
Occ 405.01 |
RSA 541-A:16, I(b) |
|
Occ 405.02 |
RSA 326-C:2 |
|
Occ 405.03 – Occ 405.05 |
RSA 328-F:11, II(a) |
|
Occ 405.06 – Occ 405.10 |
RSA 326-C:7, II,
III |
|
Occ 405.11 |
RSA 328-F:11, II(a) |
|
Occ 405.12 |
RSA 328-F:21 |
|
Occ 406 |
RSA 328-F:11, I(b); RSA
326-C:6, I(b) |
|
|
|
|
Occ 501 |
RSA 541-A:7 |
|
Occ 501.01 |
RSA 328-F:11, II (b) |
|
Occ 502.01 |
RSA 328-F:11, II(b) |
|
Occ 502.02 |
RSA 328-F:23, II(c) |
|
|
|
Appendix II
Incorporation by Reference Information
|
Rule |
Title |
Obtain at: |
|
Occ
502.01(a) |
American
Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. AOTA 2020 Occupational
Therapy Code of Ethics (Copyrighted in 2015 and revised
2020) |
The American
Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. Online https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleid=2767077 Cost: None Any
questions or information requests can be directed to the Office of Licensed
Allied Health Professionals by calling 603-271-2152 |