New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Phy - Governing Board of Physical Therapists
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, Phy (referred to as the Governing Board of Physical Therapists) regulates the practice of physical therapy in New Hampshire. This governing board ensures that physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and other related professionals are properly trained, licensed, and comply with ethical and legal standards in their practice to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of the public.
Key Areas Covered
General Provisions
Purpose and Authority: The Governing Board of Physical Therapists is responsible for overseeing the licensing, regulation, and professional conduct of physical therapists and related professionals in the state of New Hampshire. The board’s purpose is to ensure that licensed practitioners provide safe, competent, and effective physical therapy services.
Definitions: This section provides definitions of key terms such as "physical therapist," "physical therapist assistant," "board," "scope of practice," and "supervision." These definitions help clarify the roles and responsibilities of professionals in the field.
Licensing and Certification
Licensing Requirements: The regulations specify the qualifications required to obtain a license as a physical therapist (PT) or physical therapist assistant (PTA) in New Hampshire. These typically include:
Completion of an accredited physical therapy education program.
Successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
Submission of a criminal background check.
Proof of clinical internship or supervised practice hours.
License Renewal: Licensed physical therapists and assistants must renew their licenses periodically, typically every two years. Renewal requirements often include payment of fees and completion of continuing education courses.
Out-of-State Licensure: Provides the process for reciprocal licensing for physical therapists licensed in other states. Applicants from out of state must meet equivalent education and examination standards, and demonstrate good standing with other state boards.
Scope of Practice
Physical Therapists (PTs): The regulations define the scope of practice for physical therapists, including the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with physical impairments or disabilities. This encompasses:
Performing musculoskeletal and neurological assessments.
Developing personalized treatment plans.
Providing manual therapy, exercise programs, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
Educating patients on injury prevention, mobility, and improving physical function.
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs): PTAs work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to provide treatment and assist in therapeutic exercises, modalities, and patient education. The regulations outline the supervisory role of the physical therapist and the tasks that PTAs are allowed to perform.
Supervision Requirements: The regulations specify the level of supervision required for PTAs. Physical therapists must oversee the work of PTAs but may delegate specific tasks within the scope of practice.
Continuing Education
Education Requirements for Renewal: Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants must complete a specified number of continuing education (CE) hours during each license renewal period. The content of these hours may include topics like:
Advances in manual therapy.
Patient management techniques.
Injury prevention and rehabilitation.
New technologies and treatment methods in physical therapy.
Approved Providers: The code specifies that CE courses must be offered by approved providers, including professional organizations, accredited universities, and specialized workshops.
Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct
Code of Ethics: The regulations establish a code of ethics for physical therapists, emphasizing values such as integrity, professionalism, patient-centered care, and confidentiality. Practitioners must maintain high standards of care and ensure that their services are based on sound clinical judgment.
Unprofessional Conduct: The code defines unprofessional conduct, which includes:
Fraudulent billing or misrepresentation.
Failure to maintain patient confidentiality.
Substance abuse or impairment while practicing.
Incompetence or negligence in treatment.
Reporting Violations: Physical therapists and assistants are required to report any unprofessional conduct or violations of regulations. Failure to do so could result in disciplinary action.
Supervision and Delegation
Supervision of PTAs: The regulations outline the extent to which physical therapists can delegate tasks to PTAs. Physical therapists must supervise PTAs directly, ensuring that tasks are appropriate for the PTA’s level of training and competence.
Documentation: Supervising physical therapists must ensure that proper documentation is kept for all treatments and procedures performed, including those delegated to PTAs. This ensures accountability and a clear record of patient care.
Patient Safety: Physical therapists must ensure that treatment plans and interventions are safe and effective. Any treatment that exceeds the scope of practice for a PTA must be directly provided by a licensed physical therapist.
Disciplinary Actions and Enforcement
Investigation of Complaints: The board investigates complaints or reports of violations related to physical therapy practice. Complaints may come from patients, employers, or colleagues, and they may involve issues such as substandard care, ethical violations, or criminal activity.
Disciplinary Sanctions: If a violation is found, the board has the authority to impose disciplinary actions, including:
Reprimands or censures.
Probation with additional oversight or training.
Suspension or revocation of a license.
Fines or other penalties.
Appeals Process: Physical therapists or assistants subject to disciplinary actions have the right to appeal the decision. The process for appealing involves a formal hearing where the individual can present evidence and make their case.
Telehealth and Telepractice
Telehealth Services: The regulations address the provision of physical therapy services via telehealth (online consultations). Physical therapists must ensure that telehealth services meet the same standards as in-person care. This includes providing remote assessments, developing treatment plans, and guiding patients through exercises.
Telepractice Requirements: Specific guidelines outline the technology standards, patient privacy protections, and the necessity for clinical judgment in deciding whether telehealth is appropriate for the patient’s condition.
Penalties for Violations
Fines and Penalties: In addition to suspending or revoking licenses, physical therapists and assistants who violate ethical standards or regulatory requirements may be subject to financial penalties, including fines for unprofessional behavior, improper billing, or failure to maintain licensure.
Criminal Convictions: Individuals convicted of certain crimes may be barred from licensure or have their existing licenses revoked. The regulations provide for the review of criminal convictions on a case-by-case basis.
Purpose of the Governing Board of Physical Therapists
The primary purpose of the Governing Board of Physical Therapists is to:
Regulate the practice of physical therapy in New Hampshire, ensuring that practitioners meet high standards of competency and professionalism.
Protect the public by ensuring that individuals receiving physical therapy services are treated safely and effectively by licensed professionals.
Maintain the integrity of the physical therapy profession by enforcing ethical standards, continuing education requirements, and proper supervision practices.
Ensure accountability and transparency in the profession by investigating complaints, enforcing disciplinary actions, and promoting professional development.
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