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The Legislative Service Commission staff updates the Revised Code on an ongoing basis, as it completes its act review of enacted legislation. Updates may be slower during some times of the year, depending on the volume of enacted legislation.

Chapter 4755 | Occupational Therapists; Physical Therapists; Athletic Trainers

 
 
 
Section
Section 4755.01 | Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.
 

(A) There is hereby created the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board consisting of sixteen residents of this state, who shall be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The board shall be composed of a physical therapy section, an occupational therapy section, and an athletic trainers section.

(1) Four members of the board shall be physical therapists who are licensed to practice physical therapy and who have been engaged in or actively associated with the practice of physical therapy in this state for at least five years immediately preceding appointment. One member shall be a licensed physical therapist assistant who has been engaged in or actively associated with the practice of assisting in the provision of physical therapy treatments in this state for at least five years immediately preceding appointment. Such members of the board shall sit on the physical therapy section. The physical therapy section also shall consist of four additional members, appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate, who satisfy the same qualifications as the members of the board sitting on the physical therapy section, but who are not members of the board. Of the additional physical therapy section members, at least three shall be physical therapists. The fourth additional member shall be either a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant. Of the additional physical therapy section members whose terms commence on August 28, 2007, one shall be for a term of one year, one for a term of two years, one for a term of three years, and one for a term of four years. Such additional members of the physical therapy section are vested with only such powers and shall perform only such duties as relate to the affairs of that section.

(2) Four members of the board shall be occupational therapists and one member shall be a licensed occupational therapy assistant, all of whom have been engaged in or actively associated with the practice of occupational therapy or practice as an occupational therapy assistant in this state for at least five years immediately preceding appointment. Such members of the board shall sit on the occupational therapy section.

(3) Four members of the board shall be athletic trainers who have been engaged in the practice of athletic training in Ohio for at least five years immediately preceding appointment. One member of the board shall be a physician licensed to practice medicine and surgery in this state. Such members of the board shall sit on the athletic trainers section.

(4) One member of the board shall represent the public. This member shall sit on the board and shall attend each year at least three meetings of the physical therapy section, three meetings of the occupational therapy section, and three meetings of the athletic trainers section.

(B) Except for the terms of office specified in division (A)(1) of this section for the additional members of the physical therapy section commencing on August 28, 2007, terms for the members of the board and the additional members of the physical therapy section are for three years. Each member's term shall commence on the twenty-eighth day of August and end on the twenty-seventh day of August. Each member shall serve subsequent to the expiration of the member's term until the member's successor is appointed and qualifies, or until a period of ninety days has elapsed, whichever occurs first. A member shall not serve for more than three consecutive terms. All vacancies shall be filled in the manner prescribed for the regular appointments and are limited to the unexpired terms.

(C) Each member of the board and each additional member of the physical therapy section, before entering upon the official duties of office, shall do both of the following:

(1) Subscribe to and file with the secretary of state the constitutional oath of office;

(2) Sign and file with the executive director of the board a notarized statement that the member has read and understands sections 121.22 and 149.43 of the Revised Code and the provisions of Chapter 119. of the Revised Code that are applicable to the duties of the board.

(D) Annually, upon the qualification of the member or members appointed in that year, the board shall organize by selecting from its members a president and secretary. Each section of the board shall independently organize by selecting from its members a chairperson and secretary.

(E) A majority of the members of the board constitutes a quorum to transact and vote on the business of the board. A majority of the members of each section constitutes a quorum to transact and vote on the affairs of that section.

(F) Each member of the board and each additional member of the physical therapy section shall receive an amount fixed pursuant to division (J) of section 124.15 of the Revised Code for each day employed in the discharge of official duties. In addition, each member of the board and each additional member of the physical therapy section shall receive the member's actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of official duties.

(G) The board of trustees of the Ohio occupational therapy association may recommend, after any term expires or vacancy occurs in an occupational therapy position, at least three persons to fill each such position or vacancy on the board, and the governor may make the appointment from the persons so recommended. The executive board of the Ohio chapter of the American physical therapy association may recommend, after any term expires or vacancy occurs in a physical therapy position, at least three persons to fill each such vacancy on the board, and the governor may make appointments from the persons so recommended. The Ohio athletic trainers association shall recommend to the governor at least three persons when any term expires or any vacancy occurs in an athletic trainer position. The governor may select one of the association's recommendations in making such an appointment.

(H) The board shall meet as a whole to determine all administrative, personnel, and budgetary matters. The executive director of the board appointed by the board shall not be a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, or an athletic trainer who has been licensed to practice physical therapy, occupational therapy, or as an athletic trainer in this state within three years immediately preceding appointment. The executive director shall execute, under the direction of the board, the policies, orders, directives, and administrative functions of the board and shall direct, under rules adopted by the board, the work of all persons employed by the board. Upon the request of the board, the executive director shall report to the board on any matter. The executive director shall serve at the pleasure of the board.

(I) The occupational therapy section of the board shall have the authority to act on behalf of the board on matters concerning the practice of occupational therapy and, in particular, the examination of applicants, the issuance of licenses, and the suspension or revocation of licenses to practice as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant. The physical therapy section of the board shall have the authority to act on behalf of the board on matters concerning the practice of physical therapy and, in particular, the examination, licensure, and suspension or revocation of licensure of applicants, physical therapists, and physical therapist assistants. The athletic trainers section of the board shall have the authority to act on behalf of the board on matters concerning the practice of athletic training and, in particular, the examination, licensure, and suspension or revocation of licensure of applicants and athletic trainers. All actions taken by any section of the board under this division shall be in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Last updated March 22, 2023 at 12:59 PM

Section 4755.02 | Powers and duties of board.
 

(A) The appropriate section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall investigate compliance with this chapter or any rule or order issued under this chapter and shall investigate alleged grounds for the suspension, revocation, or refusal to issue or renew licenses under section 3123.47, 4755.11, 4755.47, or 4755.64 of the Revised Code. The appropriate section may subpoena witnesses and documents in connection with its investigations.

(B) Through the attorney general or an appropriate prosecuting attorney, the appropriate section may apply to an appropriate court for an order enjoining the violation of this chapter. On the filing of a verified petition, the court shall conduct a hearing on the petition and give the same preference to the proceeding as is given to all proceedings under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, irrespective of the position of the proceeding on the court's calendar. On a showing that a person has violated or is about to violate this chapter, the court shall grant an injunction, restraining order, or other order as appropriate. The injunction proceedings provided by this division are in addition to all penalties and other remedies provided in this chapter.

(C) When requested by the appropriate section, the prosecuting attorney of a county, or the village solicitor or city director of law of a municipal corporation, where a violation of this chapter allegedly occurs, shall take charge of and conduct the prosecution.

(D) The appropriate section may employ investigators who shall investigate complaints, conduct inspections, and make inquiries as in the judgment of the section are appropriate to enforce sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 of the Revised Code or this chapter. These investigators have the right to review, obtain copies, and audit the patient records and personnel files of licensees at the place of business of the licensees or any other place where such documents may be and shall be given access to such documents during normal business hours.

(E)(1) Subject to division (E)(2) of this section, information and records received or generated by the board pursuant to an investigation are confidential, are not public records as defined in section 149.43 of the Revised Code, and are not subject to discovery in any civil or administrative action.

(2) For good cause, the board may disclose information gathered pursuant to an investigation to any federal, state, or local law enforcement, prosecutorial, or regulatory agency or its officers or agents engaging in an investigation the board believes is within the agency's jurisdiction. An agency that receives confidential information shall comply with the same requirements regarding confidentiality as those with which the board must comply, notwithstanding any conflicting provision of the Revised Code or procedure of the agency that applies when the agency is dealing with other information in its possession. The information may be admitted into evidence in a criminal trial in accordance with the Rules of Evidence, or in an administrative hearing conducted by an agency, but the court or agency shall require that appropriate measures be taken to ensure that confidentiality is maintained with respect to any part of the information that contains names or other identifying information about patients, complainants, or others whose confidentiality was protected by the board when the information was in the board's possession. Measures to ensure confidentiality that may be taken by the court or agency include sealing its records or redacting specific information from its records.

(F) The appropriate section shall conduct hearings, keep records and minutes, and enforce the relevant sections of this chapter.

(G) Each section of the board shall publish and make available, upon request and for a fee not to exceed the actual cost of printing and mailing, the licensure standards prescribed by the relevant sections of this chapter and the Administrative Code.

(H) The board shall submit to the governor and to the general assembly each year a report of all its official actions during the preceding year, together with any recommendations and findings with regard to the status of the professions of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training.

Last updated August 18, 2021 at 2:17 PM

Section 4755.03 | Fees credited to occupational licensing and regulatory fund.
 

Except as provided in section 4755.99 of the Revised Code, all fees and fines collected and assessed under this chapter by the appropriate section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board, shall be deposited into the state treasury to the credit of the occupational licensing and regulatory fund.

Section 4755.031 | Fee for costs of sanction proceedings.
 

A person sanctioned under section 4755.11, 4755.47, 4755.482, or 4755.64 of the Revised Code shall pay a fee in the amount of the actual cost of the administrative hearing, including the cost of the court reporter, the hearing officer, transcripts, and any witness fees for lodging and travel, as determined by the appropriate section of the board. The fee shall be collected by the appropriate section.

Section 4755.04 | Occupational therapist definitions.
 

As used in sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 and section 4755.99 of the Revised Code:

(A) "Occupational therapy" means the therapeutic use of everyday life activities or occupations with individuals or groups for the purpose of participation in roles and situations in the home, school, workplace, community, and other settings. The practice of occupational therapy includes all of the following:

(1) Methods or strategies selected to direct the process of interventions, including, but not limited to, establishment, remediation, or restoration of a skill or ability that has not yet developed or is impaired and compensation, modification, or adaptation of activity or environment to enhance performance;

(2) Evaluation of factors affecting activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation, including, but not limited to, sensory motor abilities, vision, perception, cognition, psychosocial, and communication and interaction skills;

(3) Interventions and procedures to promote or enhance safety and performance in activities of daily living, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation, including, but not limited to, application of physical agent modalities, use of a range of specific therapeutic procedures to enhance performance skills, rehabilitation of driving skills to facilitate community mobility, and management of feeding, eating, and swallowing to enable eating and feeding performance;

(4) Consultative services, case management, and education of patients, clients, or other individuals to promote self-management, home management, and community and work reintegration;

(5) Designing, fabricating, applying, recommending, and instructing in the use of selected orthotic or prosthetic devices and other equipment which assists the individual to adapt to the individual's potential or actual impairment;

(6) Administration of topical drugs that have been prescribed by a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code.

(B) "Occupational therapist" means a person who is licensed to practice occupational therapy and who offers such services to the public under any title incorporating the words "occupational therapy," "occupational therapist," or any similar title or description of services.

(C) "Occupational therapy assistant" means a person who holds a license to provide occupational therapy techniques under the general supervision of an occupational therapist.

Last updated August 18, 2021 at 2:17 PM

Section 4755.05 | Requirement of license or permit.
 

No person who does not hold a current license under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code shall practice or offer to practice occupational therapy, or use in connection with the person's name, or otherwise assume, use, or advertise, any title, initials, or description tending to convey the impression that the person is an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant. No partnership, association, or corporation shall advertise or otherwise offer to provide or convey the impression that it is providing occupational therapy unless an individual holding a current license under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code is or will at the appropriate time be rendering the occupational therapy services to which reference is made.

Last updated August 18, 2021 at 2:17 PM

Section 4755.06 | Administrative rules.
 

The occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may make reasonable rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code relating to, but not limited to, the following:

(A) The form and manner for filing applications for licensure under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code;

(B) The issuance, suspension, and revocation of the licenses and the conducting of investigations and hearings;

(C) Standards for approval of courses of study relative to the practice of occupational therapy;

(D) The time and form of examination for the licensure;

(E) Standards of ethical conduct in the practice of occupational therapy;

(F) The form and manner for filing applications for renewal and a schedule of deadlines for renewal;

(G) The conditions under which a license of a licensee who files a late application for renewal will be reinstated;

(H) The amount, scope, and nature of continuing education activities required for license renewal, including waivers of the continuing education requirements;

(I) Requirements for criminal records checks of applicants under section 4776.03 of the Revised Code;

(J) Subject to section 4755.061 of the Revised Code, the amount for each fee specified in section 4755.12 of the Revised Code that the section charges;

(K) The amount and content of corrective action courses required by the board under section 4755.11 of the Revised Code.

The section may hear testimony in matters relating to the duties imposed upon it, and the chairperson and secretary of the section may administer oaths. The section may require proof,beyond the evidence found in the application, of the honesty and truthfulness of any person named in an application for licensure,before admitting the applicant to an examination or issuing a license.

Last updated October 5, 2021 at 2:28 PM

Section 4755.061 | Limitation on fee amounts.
 

If the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board adopts rules pursuant to section 4755.06 of the Revised Code relating to the amounts of the fees that the section may charge for the late renewal of licenses and the review of continuing education activities, as provided in divisions (A)(5) and (A)(6) of section 4755.12 of the Revised Code, the section shall not establish fee amounts for those services that exceed the actual costs the section incurs in providing the services to a licensee.

Section 4755.062 | Contracting for assistance with continuing education duties.
 

The occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may contract with the Ohio occupational therapy association, or its successor organization, for assistance in performing any duties prescribed in rules adopted under division (H) of section 4755.06 of the Revised Code.

Last updated March 22, 2023 at 12:59 PM

Section 4755.07 | License qualifications.
 

No person shall qualify for licensure as an occupational therapist or as an occupational therapy assistant unless the person has shown to the satisfaction of the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board that the person:

(A) Has successfully completed the academic requirements of an educational program recognized by the section, including a concentration of instruction in basic human sciences, the human development process, occupational tasks and activities, the health-illness-health continuum, and occupational therapy theory and practice;

(B) Has successfully completed a period of supervised field work experience at a recognized educational institution or a training program approved by the educational institution where the person met the academic requirements. For an occupational therapist, a minimum of six months of supervised field work experience is required. For an occupational therapy assistant, a minimum of two months of supervised field work experience is required.

(C) Has successfully passed a written examination testing the person's knowledge of the basic and clinical sciences relating to occupational therapy, and occupational therapy theory and practice, including the applicant's professional skills and judgment in the utilization of occupational therapy techniques and methods, and such other subjects as the section may consider useful to determine the applicant's fitness to practice. The section may require separate examinations of applicants for licensure as occupational therapy assistants and applicants for licensure as occupational therapists.

Applicants for licensure shall be examined at a time and place and under such supervision as the section determines.

Last updated October 9, 2021 at 4:59 AM

Section 4755.08 | License - limited permit.
 

The occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall issue a license to every applicant who has passed the appropriate examination designated by the section and who otherwise complies with the licensure requirements of sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code. The license entitles the holder to practice occupational therapy or to assist in the practice of occupational therapy. The licensee shall display the license in a conspicuous place at the licensee's principal place of business.

The section shall issue a license to practice occupational therapy or to assist in the practice of occupational therapy in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to an applicant if either of the following applies:

(A) The applicant holds a license in another state.

(B) The applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as an occupational therapist or assistant occupational therapist in a state that does not issue that license.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:56 AM

Section 4755.09 | Waiver of examination.
 

The occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may waive the examination requirement under section 4755.07 of the Revised Code for any applicant for licensure as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant who has met educational, training, and job experience requirements established by the section.

The section may waive the educational requirements under section 4755.07 of the Revised Code for any applicant who has met job experience requirements established by the section.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:56 AM

Section 4755.10 | Renewals.
 

Each license issued under section 4755.08 of the Revised Code is valid without further recommendation or examination until revoked or suspended or until the license expires for failure to file an application for renewal as provided for in this section.

Licenses shall be renewed biennially in accordance with the schedule established in rules adopted by the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code. Applicants for renewal shall file the fee for renewal as provided in section 4755.12 of the Revised Code, an application for renewal on a form prescribed by the occupational therapy section, and proof of completion of continuing education requirements as provided in rules adopted by the section under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code. An application for renewal shall be mailed by the section to the licensee in accordance with the schedule established in rules adopted by the section under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code. In all other respects the renewal process is as provided in section 4745.02 of the Revised Code.

The license of any licensee who fails to file an application for renewal on or before the deadline established in rules adopted by the section under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code shall expire automatically, unless the section, for good cause shown, determines that the application for renewal could not have been filed by such day.

Except as provided in sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 of the Revised Code and any applicable rules adopted under section 3123.63 of the Revised Code, the section may renew a license while the license is suspended, but the renewal shall not affect the suspension. The section shall not renew a license that has been revoked. If a revoked license is reinstated under section 4755.11 of the Revised Code after it has expired, the licensee, as a condition of reinstatement, shall pay a reinstatement fee equal to the renewal fee in effect on the last preceding regular renewal date before the reinstatement date, plus any delinquent fees accrued from the time of the revocation, if such fees are prescribed by the section by rule.

Section 4755.11 | Disciplinary actions.
 

(A) In accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may suspend, revoke, or, except as provided in division (B) of this section, refuse to issue or renew an occupational therapist license or occupational therapy assistant license, or may reprimand, fine, place a license holder on probation, or require the license holder to take corrective action courses, for any of the following:

(1) Conviction of an offense involving moral turpitude or a felony, regardless of the state or country in which the conviction occurred;

(2) Violation of any provision of sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code;

(3) Violation of any lawful order or rule of the occupational therapy section;

(4) Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license issued by the occupational therapy section by fraud or deception, including the making of a false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement in relation to these activities;

(5) Negligence, unprofessional conduct, or gross misconduct in the practice of the profession of occupational therapy;

(6) Accepting commissions or rebates or other forms of remuneration for referring persons to other professionals;

(7) Communicating, without authorization, information received in professional confidence;

(8) Using controlled substances, habit forming drugs, or alcohol to an extent that it impairs the ability to perform the work of an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant;

(9) Practicing in an area of occupational therapy for which the individual is untrained or incompetent;

(10) Failing the licensing or Ohio jurisprudence examination;

(11) Aiding, abetting, directing, or supervising the unlicensed practice of occupational therapy;

(12) Denial, revocation, suspension, or restriction of authority to practice a health care occupation, including occupational therapy, for any reason other than a failure to renew, in Ohio or another state or jurisdiction;

(13) Except as provided in division (C) of this section:

(a) Waiving the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers occupational therapy, would otherwise be required to pay if the waiver is used as an enticement to a patient or group of patients to receive health care services from that provider;

(b) Advertising that the individual will waive the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers occupational therapy, would otherwise be required to pay.

(14) Working or representing oneself as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant without a current and valid license issued by the occupational therapy section;

(15) Engaging in a deceptive trade practice, as defined in section 4165.02 of the Revised Code;

(16) Violation of the standards of ethical conduct in the practice of occupational therapy as identified by the occupational therapy section;

(17) A departure from, or the failure to conform to, minimal standards of care required of licensees, whether or not actual injury to a patient is established;

(18) An adjudication by a court that the applicant or licensee is incompetent for the purpose of holding a license and has not thereafter been restored to legal capacity for that purpose;

(19)(a) Except as provided in division (A)(19)(b) of this section, failure to cooperate with an investigation conducted by the occupational therapy section, including failure to comply with a subpoena or orders issued by the section or failure to answer truthfully a question presented by the section at a deposition or in written interrogatories.

(b) Failure to cooperate with an investigation does not constitute grounds for discipline under this section if a court of competent jurisdiction issues an order that either quashes a subpoena or permits the individual to withhold the testimony or evidence at issue.

(20) Conviction of a misdemeanor reasonably related to the practice of occupational therapy, regardless of the state or country in which the conviction occurred;

(21) Inability to practice according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care because of mental or physical illness, including physical deterioration that adversely affects cognitive, motor, or perception skills;

(22) Violation of conditions, limitations, or agreements placed by the occupational therapy section on a license to practice;

(23) Making a false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement in the solicitation of or advertising for patients in relation to the practice of occupational therapy;

(24) Failure to complete continuing education requirements as prescribed in rules adopted by the occupational therapy section under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code;

(25) Regardless of whether it is consensual, engaging in any of the following with a patient other than the spouse of the occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant:

(a) Sexual conduct, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(b) Sexual contact, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(c) Verbal behavior that is sexually demeaning to the patient or may be reasonably interpreted by the patient as sexually demeaning.

(B) The occupational therapy section shall not refuse to issue a license to an applicant because of a criminal conviction unless the refusal is in accordance with section 9.79 of the Revised Code.

(C) Sanctions shall not be imposed under division (A)(13) of this section against any individual who waives deductibles and copayments as follows:

(1) In compliance with the health benefit plan that expressly allows such a practice. Waiver of the deductibles or copayments shall be made only with the full knowledge and consent of the plan purchaser, payer, and third-party administrator. Documentation of the consent shall be made available to the section upon request.

(2) For professional services rendered to any other person licensed pursuant to sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code to the extent allowed by those sections and the rules of the occupational therapy section.

(D) Except as provided in division (E) of this section, the suspension or revocation of a license under this section is not effective until either the order for suspension or revocation has been affirmed following an adjudication hearing, or the time for requesting a hearing has elapsed.

When a license is revoked under this section, application for reinstatement may not be made sooner than one year after the date of revocation. The occupational therapy section may accept or refuse an application for reinstatement and may require that the applicant pass an examination as a condition of reinstatement.

When a license holder is placed on probation under this section, the occupational therapy section's probation order shall be accompanied by a statement of the conditions under which the individual may be removed from probation and restored to unrestricted practice.

(E) On receipt of a complaint that a person who holds a license issued by the occupational therapy section has committed any of the prohibited actions listed in division (A) of this section, the section may immediately suspend the license prior to holding a hearing in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code if it determines, based on the complaint, that the licensee poses an immediate threat to the public. The section may review the allegations and vote on the suspension by telephone conference call. If the section votes to suspend a license under this division, the section shall serve a written order of summary suspension to the licensee in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. If the individual whose license is suspended fails to make a timely request for an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the section shall enter a final order permanently revoking the individual's license. Notwithstanding section 119.12 of the Revised Code, a court of common pleas shall not grant a suspension of the section's order of summary suspension pending the determination of an appeal filed under that section. Any order of summary suspension issued under this division shall remain in effect, unless reversed on appeal, until a final adjudication order issued by the section pursuant to division (A) of this section becomes effective. The section shall issue its final adjudication order regarding an order of summary suspension issued under this division not later than ninety days after completion of its hearing. Failure to issue the order within ninety days shall result in immediate dissolution of the suspension order, but shall not invalidate any subsequent, final adjudication order.

(F) If any person other than a person who holds a license issued under section 4755.08 of the Revised Code has engaged in any practice that is prohibited under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code or the rules of the occupational therapy section, the section may apply to the court of common pleas of the county in which the violation occurred, for an injunction or other appropriate order restraining this conduct, and the court shall issue this order.

Last updated October 4, 2023 at 12:10 PM

Section 4755.111 | Rendering of therapy services through business entity.
 

(A) An individual whom the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board licenses, certificates, or otherwise legally authorizes to engage in the practice of occupational therapy may render the professional services of an occupational therapist within this state through a corporation formed under division (B) of section 1701.03 of the Revised Code, a limited liability company formed under former Chapter 1705. of the Revised Code as that chapter existed prior to February 11, 2022, or Chapter 1706. of the Revised Code, a partnership, or a professional association formed under Chapter 1785. of the Revised Code. This division does not preclude an individual of that nature from rendering professional services as an occupational therapist through another form of business entity, including, but not limited to, a nonprofit corporation or foundation, or in another manner that is authorized by or in accordance with sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code, another chapter of the Revised Code, or rules of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board adopted pursuant to sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code.

(B) A corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or professional association described in division (A) of this section may be formed for the purpose of providing a combination of the professional services of the following individuals who are licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to practice their respective professions:

(1) Optometrists who are authorized to practice optometry under Chapter 4725. of the Revised Code;

(2) Chiropractors who are authorized to practice chiropractic or acupuncture under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code;

(3) Psychologists who are authorized to practice psychology under Chapter 4732. of the Revised Code;

(4) Registered or licensed practical nurses who are authorized to practice nursing as registered nurses or as licensed practical nurses under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code;

(5) Pharmacists who are authorized to practice pharmacy under Chapter 4729. of the Revised Code;

(6) Physical therapists who are authorized to practice physical therapy under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code;

(7) Occupational therapists who are authorized to practice occupational therapy under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code;

(8) Mechanotherapists who are authorized to practice mechanotherapy under section 4731.151 of the Revised Code;

(9) Doctors of medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code;

(10) Licensed professional clinical counselors, licensed professional counselors, independent social workers, social workers, independent marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapists, art therapists, or music therapists who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4757. of the Revised Code.

This division shall apply notwithstanding a provision of a code of ethics applicable to an occupational therapist that prohibits an occupational therapist from engaging in the practice of occupational therapy in combination with a person who is licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to practice optometry, chiropractic, acupuncture through the state chiropractic board, psychology, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, mechanotherapy, medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, podiatric medicine and surgery, professional counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, art therapy, or music therapy, but who is not also licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to engage in the practice of occupational therapy.

Last updated October 4, 2023 at 12:12 PM

Section 4755.12 | Fees.
 

(A) The occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may charge any or all of the following fees:

(1) A nonrefundable examination fee, which is to be paid at the time of application for licensure;

(2) An application fee for an initial license;

(3) An initial licensure fee;

(4) A fee for biennial renewal of a license;

(5) A fee for late renewal of a license;

(6) A fee for the review of continuing education activities;

(7) A fee for verification of a license.

(B) The section may, by rule, provide for the waiver of all or part of a fee when the license is issued less than one hundred days before the date on which it will expire.

(C) Except when all or part of a fee is waived under division (B) of this section, the amount charged by the occupational therapy section for each of its fees shall be the applicable amount established in rules adopted under section 4755.06 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 24, 2021 at 2:22 PM

Section 4755.13 | Exemptions.
 

Nothing in sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code shall be construed to prevent or restrict the practice, services, or activities of the following:

(A) Any person who does not claim to the public by any title, initials, or description of services as being engaged in the practice of occupational therapy, who is:

(1) A physician licensed under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code, or anyone employed or supervised by a licensed physician in the delivery of treatment or services;

(2) A person licensed, certified, or registered under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code or under any other chapter of the Revised Code who is practicing within the standards and ethics of practice that represent appropriate extensions of the person's profession;

(3) A qualified member of any other profession who is practicing within the standards and ethics of the member's profession.

(B) Any person employed as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant by the government of the United States, if the person provides occupational therapy solely under the direction or control of the organization by which the person is employed;

(C) Any person pursuing a course of study leading to a degree or certificate in occupational therapy in an accredited or approved educational program if the activities and services constitute a part of a supervised course of study, if the person is designated by a title that clearly indicates the person's status as a student or trainee;

(D) Any person fulfilling the supervised field work experience requirements of section 4755.07 of the Revised Code, if the activities and services constitute a part of the experience necessary to meet those requirements.

Section 4755.14 | Occupational therapy licensure compact.
 

The "Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact" is hereby ratified, enacted into law, and entered into by the state of Ohio as a party to the compact with any other state that has legally joined in the compact as follows:

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY LICENSURE COMPACT

SECTION 1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Compact is to facilitate interstate practice of Occupational Therapy with the goal of improving public access to Occupational Therapy services. The Practice of Occupational Therapy occurs in the State where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter. The Compact preserves the regulatory authority of States to protect public health and safety through the current system of State licensure.

This Compact is designed to achieve the following objectives:

A. Increase public access to Occupational Therapy services by providing for the mutual recognition of other Member State licenses;

B. Enhance the States' ability to protect the public's health and safety;

C. Encourage the cooperation of Member States in regulating multi-State Occupational Therapy Practice;

D. Support spouses of relocating military members;

E. Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information between Member States;

F. Allow a Remote State to hold a provider of services with a Compact Privilege in that State accountable to that State's practice standards; and

G. Facilitate the use of Telehealth technology in order to increase access to Occupational Therapy services.

SECTION 2. DEFINITIONS

As used in this Compact, and except as otherwise provided, the following definitions shall apply:

A. "Active Duty Military" means full-time duty status in the active uniformed service of the United States, including members of the National Guard and Reserve on active duty orders pursuant to 10 U.S.C. Chapter 1209 and Section 1211.

B. "Adverse Action" means any administrative, civil, equitable, or criminal action permitted by a State's laws which is imposed by a Licensing Board or other authority against an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant, including actions against an individual's license or Compact Privilege such as censure, revocation, suspension, probation, monitoring of the Licensee, or restriction on the Licensee's practice.

C. "Alternative Program" means a non-disciplinary monitoring process approved by an Occupational Therapy Licensing Board.

D. "Compact Privilege" means the authorization, which is equivalent to a license, granted by a Remote State to allow a Licensee from another Member State to practice as an Occupational Therapist or practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the Remote State under its laws and rules. The Practice of Occupational Therapy occurs in the Member State where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter.

E. "Continuing Competence/Education" means a requirement, as a condition of license renewal, to provide evidence of participation in, and/or completion of, educational and professional activities relevant to practice or area of work.

F. "Current Significant Investigative Information" means Investigative Information that a Licensing Board, after an inquiry or investigation that includes notification and an opportunity for the Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant to respond, if required by State law, has reason to believe is not groundless and, if proved true, would indicate more than a minor infraction.

G. "Data System" means a repository of information about Licensees, including but not limited to license status, Investigative Information, Compact Privileges, and Adverse Actions.

H. "Encumbered License" means a license in which an Adverse Action restricts the Practice of Occupational Therapy by the Licensee or said Adverse Action has been reported to the National Practitioners Data Bank (NPDB).

I. "Executive Committee" means a group of directors elected or appointed to act on behalf of, and within the powers granted to them by, the Commission.

J. "Home State" means the Member State that is the Licensee's Primary State of Residence.

K. "Impaired Practitioner" means individuals whose professional practice is adversely affected by substance abuse, addiction, or other health-related conditions.

L. "Investigative Information" means information, records, and/or documents received or generated by an Occupational Therapy Licensing Board pursuant to an investigation.

M. "Jurisprudence Requirement" means the assessment of an individual's knowledge of the laws and rules governing the Practice of Occupational Therapy in a State.

N. "Licensee" means an individual who currently holds an authorization from the State to practice as an Occupational Therapist or as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.

O. "Member State" means a State that has enacted the Compact.

P. "Occupational Therapist" means an individual who is licensed by a State to practice Occupational Therapy.

Q. "Occupational Therapy Assistant" means an individual who is licensed by a State to assist in the Practice of Occupational Therapy.

R. "Occupational Therapy," "Occupational Therapy Practice," and the "Practice of Occupational Therapy" mean the care and services provided by an Occupational Therapist or an Occupational Therapy Assistant as set forth in the Member State's statutes and regulations.

S. "Occupational Therapy Compact Commission" or "Commission" means the national administrative body whose membership consists of all States that have enacted the Compact.

T. "Occupational Therapy Licensing Board" or "Licensing Board" means the agency of a State that is authorized to license and regulate Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants.

U. "Primary State of Residence" means the state (also known as the Home State) in which an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant who is not Active Duty Military declares a primary residence for legal purposes as verified by: driver's license, federal income tax return, lease, deed, mortgage or voter registration or other verifying documentation as further defined by Commission Rules.

V. "Remote State" means a Member State other than the Home State, where a Licensee is exercising or seeking to exercise the Compact Privilege.

W. "Rule" means a regulation promulgated by the Commission that has the force of law.

X. "State" means any state, commonwealth, district, or territory of the United States of America that regulates the Practice of Occupational Therapy.

Y. "Single-State License" means an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant license issued by a Member State that authorizes practice only within the issuing State and does not include a Compact Privilege in any other Member State.

Z. "Telehealth" means the application of telecommunication technology to deliver Occupational Therapy services for assessment, intervention and/or consultation.

SECTION 3. STATE PARTICIPATION IN THE COMPACT

A. To participate in the Compact, a Member State shall:

1. License Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants

2. Participate fully in the Commission's Data System, including but not limited to using the Commission's unique identifier as defined in Rules of the Commission;

3. Have a mechanism in place for receiving and investigating complaints about Licensees;

4. Notify the Commission, in compliance with the terms of the Compact and Rules, of any Adverse Action or the availability of Investigative Information regarding a Licensee;

5. Implement or utilize procedures for considering the criminal history records of applicants for an initial Compact Privilege. These procedures shall include the submission of fingerprints or other biometric-based information by applicants for the purpose of obtaining an applicant's criminal history record information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the agency responsible for retaining that State's criminal records;

a. A Member State shall, within a time frame established by the Commission, require a criminal background check for a Licensee seeking/applying for a Compact Privilege whose Primary State of Residence is that Member State, by receiving the results of the Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal record search, and shall use the results in making licensure decisions.

b. Communication between a Member State, the Commission and among Member States regarding the verification of eligibility for licensure through the Compact shall not include any information received from the Federal Bureau of Investigation relating to a federal criminal records check performed by a Member State under Public Law 92-544.

6. Comply with the Rules of the Commission;

7. Utilize only a recognized national examination as a requirement for licensure pursuant to the Rules of the Commission; and

8. Have Continuing Competence/Education requirements as a condition for license renewal.

B. A Member State shall grant the Compact Privilege to a Licensee holding a valid unencumbered license in another Member State in accordance with the terms of the Compact and Rules.

C. Member States may charge a fee for granting a Compact Privilege.

D. A Member State shall provide for the State's delegate to attend all Occupational Therapy Compact Commission meetings.

E. Individuals not residing in a Member State shall continue to be able to apply for a Member State's Single-State License as provided under the laws of each Member State. However, the Single-State License granted to these individuals shall not be recognized as granting the Compact Privilege in any other Member State.

F. Nothing in this Compact shall affect the requirements established by a Member State for the issuance of a Single-State License.

SECTION 4. COMPACT PRIVILEGE

A. To exercise the Compact Privilege under the terms and provisions of the Compact, the Licensee shall:

1. Hold a license in the Home State;

2. Have a valid United States Social Security Number or National Practitioner Identification number;

3. Have no encumbrance on any State license;

4. Be eligible for a Compact Privilege in any Member State in accordance with Section 4D, F, G, and H;

5. Have paid all fines and completed all requirements resulting from any Adverse Action against any license or Compact Privilege, and two years have elapsed from the date of such completion;

6. Notify the Commission that the Licensee is seeking the Compact Privilege within a Remote State(s);

7. Pay any applicable fees, including any State fee, for the Compact Privilege;

8. Complete a criminal background check in accordance with Section 3A(5);

a. The Licensee shall be responsible for the payment of any fee associated with the completion of a criminal background check.

9. Meet any Jurisprudence Requirements established by the Remote State(s) in which the Licensee is seeking a Compact Privilege; and

10. Report to the Commission Adverse Action taken by any non-Member State within 30 days from the date the Adverse Action is taken.

B. The Compact Privilege is valid until the expiration date of the Home State license. The Licensee must comply with the requirements of Section 4A to maintain the Compact Privilege in the Remote State.

C. A Licensee providing Occupational Therapy in a Remote State under the Compact Privilege shall function within the laws and regulations of the Remote State.

D. Occupational Therapy Assistants practicing in a Remote State shall be supervised by an Occupational Therapist licensed or holding a Compact Privilege in that Remote State.

E. A Licensee providing Occupational Therapy in a Remote State is subject to that State's regulatory authority. A Remote State may, in accordance with due process and that State's laws, remove a Licensee's Compact Privilege in the Remote State for a specific period of time, impose fines, and/or take any other necessary actions to protect the health and safety of its citizens. The Licensee may be ineligible for a Compact Privilege in any State until the specific time for removal has passed and all fines are paid.

F. If a Home State license is encumbered, the Licensee shall lose the Compact Privilege in any Remote State until the following occur:

1. The Home State license is no longer encumbered; and

2. Two years have elapsed from the date on which the Home State license is no longer encumbered in accordance with Section 4(F)(1).

G. Once an Encumbered License in the Home State is restored to good standing, the Licensee must meet the requirements of Section 4A to obtain a Compact Privilege in any Remote State.

H. If a Licensee's Compact Privilege in any Remote State is removed, the individual may lose the Compact Privilege in any other Remote State until the following occur:

1. The specific period of time for which the Compact Privilege was removed has ended;

2. All fines have been paid and all conditions have been met;

3. Two years have elapsed from the date of completing requirements for 4(H)(1) and (2); and

4. The Compact Privileges are reinstated by the Commission, and the compact Data System is updated to reflect reinstatement.

I. If a Licensee's Compact Privilege in any Remote State is removed due to an erroneous charge, privileges shall be restored through the compact Data System.

J. Once the requirements of Section 4H have been met, the license must meet the requirements in Section 4A to obtain a Compact Privilege in a Remote State.

SECTION 5: OBTAINING A NEW HOME STATE LICENSE BY VIRTUE OF COMPACT PRIVILEGE

A. An Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant may hold a Home State license, which allows for Compact Privileges in Member States, in only one Member State at a time.

B. If an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant changes Primary State of Residence by moving between two Member States:

1. The Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant shall file an application for obtaining a new Home State license by virtue of a Compact Privilege, pay all applicable fees, and notify the current and new Home State in accordance with applicable Rules adopted by the Commission.

2. Upon receipt of an application for obtaining a new Home State license by virtue of compact privilege, the new Home State shall verify that the Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant meets the pertinent criteria outlined in Section 4 via the Data System, without need for primary source verification except for:

a. an FBI fingerprint based criminal background check if not previously performed or updated pursuant to applicable Rules adopted by the Commission in accordance with Public Law 92-544;

b. other criminal background check as required by the new Home State; and

c. submission of any requisite Jurisprudence Requirements of the new Home State.

3. The former Home State shall convert the former Home State license into a Compact Privilege once the new Home State has activated the new Home State license in accordance with applicable Rules adopted by the Commission.

4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Compact, if the Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant cannot meet the criteria in Section 4, the new Home State shall apply its requirements for issuing a new Single-State License.

5. The Occupational Therapist or the Occupational Therapy Assistant shall pay all applicable fees to the new Home State in order to be issued a new Home State license.

C. If an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant changes Primary State of Residence by moving from a Member State to a non-Member State, or from a non-Member State to a Member State, the State criteria shall apply for issuance of a Single-State License in the new State.

D. Nothing in this compact shall interfere with a Licensee's ability to hold a Single-State License in multiple States; however, for the purposes of this compact, a Licensee shall have only one Home State license.

E. Nothing in this Compact shall affect the requirements established by a Member State for the issuance of a Single-State License.

SECTION 6. ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL OR THEIR SPOUSES

A. Active Duty Military personnel, or their spouses, shall designate a Home State where the individual has a current license in good standing. The individual may retain the Home State designation during the period the service member is on active duty. Subsequent to designating a Home State, the individual shall only change their Home State through application for licensure in the new State or through the process described in Section 5.

SECTION 7. ADVERSE ACTIONS

A. A Home State shall have exclusive power to impose Adverse Action against an Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's license issued by the Home State.

B. In addition to the other powers conferred by State law, a Remote State shall have the authority, in accordance with existing State due process law, to:

1. Take Adverse Action against an Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's Compact Privilege within that Member State.

2. Issue subpoenas for both hearings and investigations that require the attendance and testimony of witnesses as well as the production of evidence. Subpoenas issued by a Licensing Board in a Member State for the attendance and testimony of witnesses or the production of evidence from another Member State shall be enforced in the latter State by any court of competent jurisdiction, according to the practice and procedure of that court applicable to subpoenas issued in proceedings pending before it. The issuing authority shall pay any witness fees, travel expenses, mileage and other fees required by the service statutes of the State in which the witnesses or evidence are located.

C. For purposes of taking Adverse Action, the Home State shall give the same priority and effect to reported conduct received from a Member State as it would if the conduct had occurred within the Home State. In so doing, the Home State shall apply its own State laws to determine appropriate action.

D. The Home State shall complete any pending investigations of an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant who changes Primary State of Residence during the course of the investigations. The Home State, where the investigations were initiated, shall also have the authority to take appropriate action(s) and shall promptly report the conclusions of the investigations to the OT Compact Commission Data System. The Occupational Therapy Compact Commission Data System administrator shall promptly notify the new Home State of any Adverse Actions.

E. A Member State, if otherwise permitted by State law, may recover from the affected Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant the costs of investigations and disposition of cases resulting from any Adverse Action taken against that Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant.

F. A Member State may take Adverse Action based on the factual findings of the Remote State, provided that the Member State follows its own procedures for taking the Adverse Action.

G. Joint Investigations

1. In addition to the authority granted to a Member State by its respective State Occupational Therapy laws and regulations or other applicable State law, any Member State may participate with other Member States in joint investigations of Licensees.

2. Member States shall share any investigative, litigation, or compliance materials in furtherance of any joint or individual investigation initiated under the Compact.

H. If an Adverse Action is taken by the Home State against an Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's license, the Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's Compact Privilege in all other Member States shall be deactivated until all encumbrances have been removed from the State license. All Home State disciplinary orders that impose Adverse Action against an Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's license shall include a Statement that the Occupational Therapist's or Occupational Therapy Assistant's Compact Privilege is deactivated in all Member States during the pendency of the order.

I. If a Member State takes Adverse Action, it shall promptly notify the administrator of the Data System. The administrator of the Data System shall promptly notify the Home State of any Adverse Actions by Remote States.

J. Nothing in this Compact shall override a Member State's decision that participation in an Alternative Program may be used in lieu of Adverse Action.

SECTION 8. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY COMPACT COMMISSION.

A. The Compact Member States hereby create and establish a joint public agency known as the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission:

1. The Commission is an instrumentality of the Compact States.

2. Venue is proper and judicial proceedings by or against the Commission shall be brought solely and exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction where the principal office of the Commission is located. The Commission may waive venue and jurisdictional defenses to the extent it adopts or consents to participate in alternative dispute resolution proceedings.

3. Nothing in this Compact shall be construed to be a waiver of sovereign immunity.

B. Membership, Voting, and Meetings

1. Each Member State shall have and be limited to one (1) delegate selected by that Member State's Licensing Board.

2. The delegate shall be either:

a. A current member of the Licensing Board, who is an Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant, or public member; or

b. An administrator of the Licensing Board.

3. Any delegate may be removed or suspended from office as provided by the law of the State from which the delegate is appointed.

4. The Member State board shall fill any vacancy occurring in the Commission within 90 days.

5. Each delegate shall be entitled to one (1) vote with regard to the promulgation of Rules and creation of bylaws and shall otherwise have an opportunity to participate in the business and affairs of the Commission. A delegate shall vote in person or by such other means as provided in the bylaws. The bylaws may provide for delegates' participation in meetings by telephone or other means of communication.

6. The Commission shall meet at least once during each calendar year. Additional meetings shall be held as set forth in the bylaws.

7. The Commission shall establish by Rule a term of office for delegates.

C. The Commission shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Establish a Code of Ethics for the Commission;

2. Establish the fiscal year of the Commission;

3. Establish bylaws;

4. Maintain its financial records in accordance with the bylaws;

5. Meet and take such actions as are consistent with the provisions of this Compact and the bylaws;

6. Promulgate uniform Rules to facilitate and coordinate implementation and administration of this Compact. The Rules shall have the force and effect of law and shall be binding in all Member States;

7. Bring and prosecute legal proceedings or actions in the name of the Commission, provided that the standing of any State Occupational Therapy Licensing Board to sue or be sued under applicable law shall not be affected;

8. Purchase and maintain insurance and bonds;

9. Borrow, accept, or contract for services of personnel, including, but not limited to, employees of a Member State;

10. Hire employees, elect or appoint officers, fix compensation, define duties, grant such individuals appropriate authority to carry out the purposes of the Compact, and establish the Commission's personnel policies and programs relating to conflicts of interest, qualifications of personnel, and other related personnel matters;

11. Accept any and all appropriate donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials and services, and receive, utilize and dispose of the same; provided that at all times the Commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety and/or conflict of interest;

12. Lease, purchase, accept appropriate gifts or donations of, or otherwise own, hold, improve or use, any property, real, personal or mixed; provided that at all times the Commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety;

13. Sell, convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, exchange, abandon, or otherwise dispose of any property real, personal, or mixed;

14. Establish a budget and make expenditures;

15. Borrow money;

16. Appoint committees, including standing committees composed of members, State regulators, State legislators or their representatives, and consumer representatives, and such other interested persons as may be designated in this Compact and the bylaws;

17. Provide and receive information from, and cooperate with, law enforcement agencies;

18. Establish and elect an Executive Committee; and

19. Perform such other functions as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this Compact consistent with the State regulation of Occupational Therapy licensure and practice.

D. The Executive Committee

The Executive Committee shall have the power to act on behalf of the Commission according to the terms of this Compact.

1. The Executive Committee shall be composed of nine members:

a. Seven voting members who are elected by the Commission from the current membership of the Commission;

b. One ex-officio, nonvoting member from a recognized national Occupational Therapy professional association; and

c. One ex-officio, nonvoting member from a recognized national Occupational Therapy certification organization.

2. The ex-officio members will be selected by their respective organizations.

3. The Commission may remove any member of the Executive Committee as provided in bylaws.

4. The Executive Committee shall meet at least annually.

5. The Executive Committee shall have the following Duties and responsibilities:

a. Recommend to the entire Commission changes to the Rules or bylaws, changes to this Compact legislation, fees paid by Compact Member States such as annual dues, and any Commission Compact fee charged to Licensees for the Compact Privilege;

b. Ensure Compact administration services are appropriately provided, contractual or otherwise;

c. Prepare and recommend the budget;

d. Maintain financial records on behalf of the Commission;

e. Monitor Compact compliance of Member States and provide compliance reports to the Commission;

f. Establish additional committees as necessary; and

g. Perform other duties as provided in Rules or bylaws.

E. Meetings of the Commission

1. All meetings shall be open to the public, and public notice of meetings shall be given in the same manner as required under the Rulemaking provisions in Section 10.

2. The Commission or the Executive Committee or other committees of the Commission may convene in a closed, non-public meeting if the Commission or Executive Committee or other committees of the Commission must discuss:

a. Non-compliance of a Member State with its obligations under the Compact;

b. The employment, compensation, discipline or other matters, practices or procedures related to specific employees or other matters related to the Commission's internal personnel practices and procedures;

c. Current, threatened, or reasonably anticipated litigation;

d. Negotiation of contracts for the purchase, lease, or sale of goods, services, or real estate;

e. Accusing any person of a crime or formally censuring any person;

f. Disclosure of trade secrets or commercial or financial information that is privileged or confidential;

g. Disclosure of information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;

h. Disclosure of investigative records compiled for law enforcement purposes;

i. Disclosure of information related to any investigative reports prepared by or on behalf of or for use of the Commission or other committee charged with responsibility of investigation or determination of compliance issues pursuant to the Compact; or

j. Matters specifically exempted from disclosure by federal or Member State statute.

3. If a meeting, or portion of a meeting, is closed pursuant to this provision, the Commission's legal counsel or designee shall certify that the meeting may be closed and shall reference each relevant exempting provision.

4. The Commission shall keep minutes that fully and clearly describe all matters discussed in a meeting and shall provide a full and accurate summary of actions taken, and the reasons therefore, including a description of the views expressed. All documents considered in connection with an action shall be identified in such minutes. All minutes and documents of a closed meeting shall remain under seal, subject to release by a majority vote of the Commission or order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

F. Financing of the Commission

1. The Commission shall pay, or provide for the payment of, the reasonable expenses of its establishment, organization, and ongoing activities.

2. The Commission may accept any and all appropriate revenue sources, donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services.

3. The Commission may levy on and collect an annual assessment from each Member State or impose fees on other parties to cover the cost of the operations and activities of the Commission and its staff, which must be in a total amount sufficient to cover its annual budget as approved by the Commission each year for which revenue is not provided by other sources. The aggregate annual assessment amount shall be allocated based upon a formula to be determined by the Commission, which shall promulgate a Rule binding upon all Member States.

4. The Commission shall not incur obligations of any kind prior to securing the funds adequate to meet the same; nor shall the Commission pledge the credit of any of the Member States, except by and with the authority of the Member State.

5. The Commission shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the Commission shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the Commission shall be audited yearly by a certified or licensed public accountant, and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the Commission.

G. Qualified Immunity, Defense, and Indemnification

1. The members, officers, executive director, employees and representatives of the Commission shall be immune from suit and liability, either personally or in their official capacity, for any claim for damage to or loss of property or personal injury or other civil liability caused by or arising out of any actual or alleged act, error or omission that occurred, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties or responsibilities; provided that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to protect any such person from suit and/or liability for any damage, loss, injury, or liability caused by the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person.

2. The Commission shall defend any member, officer, executive director, employee, or representative of the Commission in any civil action seeking to impose liability arising out of any actual or alleged act, error, or omission that occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities; provided that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit that person from retaining his or her own counsel; and provided further, that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from that person's intentional or willful or wanton misconduct.

3. The Commission shall indemnify and hold harmless any member, officer, executive director, employee, or representative of the Commission for the amount of any settlement or judgment obtained against that person arising out of any actual or alleged act, error or omission that occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that such person had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, provided that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person.

SECTION 9. DATA SYSTEM

A. The Commission shall provide for the development, maintenance, and utilization of a coordinated database and reporting system containing licensure, Adverse Action, and Investigative Information on all licensed individuals in Member States.

B. A Member State shall submit a uniform data set to the Data System on all individuals to whom this Compact is applicable (utilizing a unique identifier) as required by the Rules of the Commission, including:

1. Identifying information;

2. Licensure data;

3. Adverse Actions against a license or Compact Privilege;

4. Non-confidential information related to Alternative Program participation;

5. Any denial of application for licensure, and the reason(s) for such denial;

6. Other information that may facilitate the administration of this Compact, as determined by the Rules of the Commission; and

7. Current Significant Investigative Information.

C. Current Significant Investigative Information and other Investigative Information pertaining to a Licensee in any Member State will only be available to other Member States.

D. The Commission shall promptly notify all Member States of any Adverse Action taken against a Licensee or an individual applying for a license. Adverse Action information pertaining to a Licensee in any Member State will be available to any other Member State.

E. Member States contributing information to the Data System may designate information that may not be shared with the public without the express permission of the contributing State.

F. Any information submitted to the Data System that is subsequently required to be expunged by the laws of the Member State contributing the information shall be removed from the Data System.

SECTION 10. RULEMAKING

A. The Commission shall exercise its Rulemaking powers pursuant to the criteria set forth in this Section and the Rules adopted thereunder. Rules and amendments shall become binding as of the date specified in each Rule or amendment.

B. The Commission shall promulgate reasonable rules in order to effectively and efficiently achieve the purposes of the Compact. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event the Commission exercises its rulemaking authority in a manner that is beyond the scope of the purposes of the Compact, or the powers granted hereunder, then such an action by the Commission shall be invalid and have no force and effect.

C. If a majority of the legislatures of the Member States rejects a Rule, by enactment of a statute or resolution in the same manner used to adopt the Compact within 4 years of the date of adoption of the Rule, then such Rule shall have no further force and effect in any Member State.

D. Rules or amendments to the Rules shall be adopted at a regular or special meeting of the Commission.

E. Prior to promulgation and adoption of a final Rule or Rules by the Commission, and at least thirty (30) days in advance of the meeting at which the Rule will be considered and voted upon, the Commission shall file a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking:

1. On the website of the Commission or other publicly accessible platform; and

2. On the website of each Member State Occupational Therapy Licensing Board or other publicly accessible platform or the publication in which each State would otherwise publish proposed Rules.

F. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking shall include:

1. The proposed time, date, and location of the meeting in which the Rule will be considered and voted upon;

2. The text of the proposed Rule or amendment and the reason for the proposed Rule;

3. A request for comments on the proposed Rule from any interested person; and

4. The manner in which interested persons may submit notice to the Commission of their intention to attend the public hearing and any written comments.

G. Prior to adoption of a proposed Rule, the Commission shall allow persons to submit written data, facts, opinions, and arguments, which shall be made available to the public.

H. The Commission shall grant an opportunity for a public hearing before it adopts a Rule or amendment if a hearing is requested by:

1. At least twenty five (25) persons;

2. A State or federal governmental subdivision or agency; or

3. An association or organization having at least twenty five (25) members.

I. If a hearing is held on the proposed Rule or amendment, the Commission shall publish the place, time, and date of the scheduled public hearing. If the hearing is held via electronic means, the Commission shall publish the mechanism for access to the electronic hearing.

1. All persons wishing to be heard at the hearing shall notify the executive director of the Commission or other designated member in writing of their desire to appear and testify at the hearing not less than five (5) business days before the scheduled date of the hearing.

2. Hearings shall be conducted in a manner providing each person who wishes to comment a fair and reasonable opportunity to comment orally or in writing.

3. All hearings will be recorded. A copy of the recording will be made available on request.

4. Nothing in this section shall be construed as requiring a separate hearing on each Rule. Rules may be grouped for the convenience of the Commission at hearings required by this section.

J. Following the scheduled hearing date, or by the close of business on the scheduled hearing date if the hearing was not held, the Commission shall consider all written and oral comments received.

K. If no written notice of intent to attend the public hearing by interested parties is received, the Commission may proceed with promulgation of the proposed Rule without a public hearing.

L. The Commission shall, by majority vote of all members, take final action on the proposed Rule and shall determine the effective date of the Rule, if any, based on the Rulemaking record and the full text of the Rule.

M. Upon determination that an emergency exists, the Commission may consider and adopt an emergency Rule without prior notice, opportunity for comment, or hearing, provided that the usual Rulemaking procedures provided in the Compact and in this section shall be retroactively applied to the Rule as soon as reasonably possible, in no event later than ninety (90) days after the effective date of the Rule. For the purposes of this provision, an emergency Rule is one that must be adopted immediately in order to:

1. Meet an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare;

2. Prevent a loss of Commission or Member State funds;

3. Meet a deadline for the promulgation of an administrative Rule that is established by federal law or Rule; or

4. Protect public health and safety.

N. The Commission or an authorized committee of the Commission may direct revisions to a previously adopted Rule or amendment for purposes of correcting typographical errors, errors in format, errors in consistency, or grammatical errors. Public notice of any revisions shall be posted on the website of the Commission. The revision shall be subject to challenge by any person for a period of thirty (30) days after posting. The revision may be challenged only on grounds that the revision results in a material change to a Rule. A challenge shall be made in writing and delivered to the chair of the Commission prior to the end of the notice period. If no challenge is made, the revision will take effect without further action. If the revision is challenged, the revision may not take effect without the approval of the Commission.

SECTION 11. OVERSIGHT, DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AND ENFORCEMENT

A. Oversight

1. The executive, legislative, and judicial branches of State government in each Member State shall enforce this Compact and take all actions necessary and appropriate to effectuate the Compact's purposes and intent. The provisions of this Compact and the Rules promulgated hereunder shall have standing as statutory law.

2. All courts shall take judicial notice of the Compact and the Rules in any judicial or administrative proceeding in a Member State pertaining to the subject matter of this Compact which may affect the powers, responsibilities, or actions of the Commission.

3. The Commission shall be entitled to receive service of process in any such proceeding, and shall have standing to intervene in such a proceeding for all purposes. Failure to provide service of process to the Commission shall render a judgment or order void as to the Commission, this Compact, or promulgated Rules.

B. Default, Technical Assistance, and Termination

1. If the Commission determines that a Member State has defaulted in the performance of its obligations or responsibilities under this Compact or the promulgated Rules, the Commission shall:

a. Provide written notice to the defaulting State and other Member States of the nature of the default, the proposed means of curing the default and/or any other action to be taken by the Commission; and

b. Provide remedial training and specific technical assistance regarding the default.

2. If a State in default fails to cure the default, the defaulting State may be terminated from the Compact upon an affirmative vote of a majority of the Member States, and all rights, privileges and benefits conferred by this Compact may be terminated on the effective date of termination. A cure of the default does not relieve the offending State of obligations or liabilities incurred during the period of default.

3. Termination of membership in the Compact shall be imposed only after all other means of securing compliance have been exhausted. Notice of intent to suspend or terminate shall be given by the Commission to the governor, the majority and minority leaders of the defaulting State's legislature, and each of the Member States.

4. A State that has been terminated is responsible for all assessments, obligations, and liabilities incurred through the effective date of termination, including obligations that extend beyond the effective date of termination.

5. The Commission shall not bear any costs related to a State that is found to be in default or that has been terminated from the Compact, unless agreed upon in writing between the Commission and the defaulting State.

6. The defaulting State may appeal the action of the Commission by petitioning the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the Commission has its principal offices. The prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorney's fees.

C. Dispute Resolution

1. Upon request by a Member State, the Commission shall attempt to resolve disputes related to the Compact that arise among Member States and between member and non-Member States.

2. The Commission shall promulgate a Rule providing for both mediation and binding dispute resolution for disputes as appropriate.

D. Enforcement

1. The Commission, in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, shall enforce the provisions and Rules of this Compact.

2. By majority vote, the Commission may initiate legal action in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the Commission has its principal offices against a Member State in default to enforce compliance with the provisions of the Compact and its promulgated Rules and bylaws. The relief sought may include both injunctive relief and damages. In the event judicial enforcement is necessary, the prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorney's fees.

3. The remedies herein shall not be the exclusive remedies of the Commission. The Commission may pursue any other remedies available under federal or State law.

SECTION 12. DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTERSTATE COMMISSION FOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PRACTICE AND ASSOCIATED RULES, WITHDRAWAL, AND AMENDMENT

A. The Compact shall come into effect on the date on which the Compact statute is enacted into law in the tenth Member State. The provisions, which become effective at that time, shall be limited to the powers granted to the Commission relating to assembly and the promulgation of Rules. Thereafter, the Commission shall meet and exercise Rulemaking powers necessary to the implementation and administration of the Compact.

B. Any State that joins the Compact subsequent to the Commission's initial adoption of the Rules shall be subject to the Rules as they exist on the date on which the Compact becomes law in that State. Any Rule that has been previously adopted by the Commission shall have the full force and effect of law on the day the Compact becomes law in that State.

C. Any Member State may withdraw from this Compact by enacting a statute repealing the same.

1. A Member State's withdrawal shall not take effect until six (6) months after enactment of the repealing statute.

2. Withdrawal shall not affect the continuing requirement of the withdrawing State's Occupational Therapy Licensing Board to comply with the investigative and Adverse Action reporting requirements of this act prior to the effective date of withdrawal.

D. Nothing contained in this Compact shall be construed to invalidate or prevent any Occupational Therapy licensure agreement or other cooperative arrangement between a Member State and a non-Member State that does not conflict with the provisions of this Compact.

E. This Compact may be amended by the Member States. No amendment to this Compact shall become effective and binding upon any Member State until it is enacted into the laws of all Member States.

SECTION 13. CONSTRUCTION AND SEVERABILITY

This Compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this Compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this Compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any Member State or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this Compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this Compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any Member State, the Compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining Member States and in full force and effect as to the Member State affected as to all severable matters.

SECTION 14. BINDING EFFECT OF COMPACT AND OTHER LAWS

A. A Licensee providing Occupational Therapy in a Remote State under the Compact Privilege shall function within the laws and regulations of the Remote State.

B. Nothing herein prevents the enforcement of any other law of a Member State that is not inconsistent with the Compact.

C. Any laws in a Member State in conflict with the Compact are superseded to the extent of the conflict.

D. Any lawful actions of the Commission, including all Rules and bylaws promulgated by the Commission, are binding upon the Member States.

E. All agreements between the Commission and the Member States are binding in accordance with their terms.

F. In the event any provision of the Compact exceeds the constitutional limits imposed on the legislature of any Member State, the provision shall be ineffective to the extent of the conflict with the constitutional provision in question in that Member State.

Last updated May 4, 2021 at 12:42 PM

Section 4755.141 | Delegate to occupational therapy compact commission.
 

Not later than ninety days after the "Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact" is entered into under section 4755.14 of the Revised Code, the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall select an individual to serve as a delegate to the occupational therapy compact commission created under the compact. The occupational therapy section shall fill a vacancy in this position not later than ninety days after the vacancy occurs.

Last updated May 4, 2021 at 12:41 PM

Section 4755.40 | Physical therapist definitions.
 

As used in sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 and 4755.99 of the Revised Code:

(A)(1) "Physical therapy" means the evaluation and treatment of a person by physical measures and the use of therapeutic exercises and rehabilitative procedures, with or without assistive devices, for the purpose of preventing, correcting, or alleviating physical impairments, functional limitations, and physical disabilities. "Physical therapy" includes physiotherapy.

"Physical therapy" includes the establishment and modification of physical therapy programs, treatment planning, patient education and instruction, and consultative services.

With respect to the evaluation of a person, "physical therapy" includes determining a physical therapy diagnosis in order to treat the person's physical impairments, functional limitations, and physical disabilities; determining a prognosis; and determining a plan of therapeutic intervention.

If performed by a person who is adequately trained, "physical therapy" includes the design, fabrication, and revision of various assistive devices, and the provision of education and instruction in the use of those devices, including braces, splints, ambulatory or locomotion devices, wheelchairs, prosthetics, and orthotics.

"Physical therapy" includes the administration of topical drugs that have been prescribed by a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Physical therapy" does not include either of the following:

(a) The use of electricity for cauterization or other surgical purposes;

(b) The use of Roentgen rays or radium for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

(B) "Physical therapy diagnosis" means a judgment that is made after examining the neuromusculoskeletal system or evaluating or studying its symptoms and that utilizes the techniques and science of physical therapy to establish a plan of therapeutic intervention. "Physical therapy diagnosis" does not include a medical diagnosis.

(C) "Physical measures" include massage and other manual therapy techniques, heat, cold, air, light, water, electricity except as provided in division (A)(2)(a) of this section, sound, and the performance of tests of neuromuscular function as an aid to the provision of treatment.

(D) "Physical therapist" means a person who practices or provides patient education and instruction in physical therapy and includes a physiotherapist.

(E) "Physical therapist assistant" means a person who assists in the provision of physical therapy treatments, including the provision of patient education and instruction, under the supervision of a physical therapist.

(F) "Supervision" means the availability and responsibility of the supervisor for direction of the actions of the person supervised.

Section 4755.41 | Physical therapy section duties.
 

(A) The physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall license persons desiring to practice physical therapy or to practice as physical therapist assistants in this state.

(B) An investigation, inquiry, or hearing which the section is authorized to undertake or hold may be undertaken or held in accordance with section 4755.02 of the Revised Code. Any finding or order shall be confirmed or approved by the section.

(C) The physical therapy section shall:

(1) Keep a record of its proceedings;

(2) Keep a register of applicants showing the name and location of the institution granting the applicant's degree or certificate in physical therapy and whether or not a license was issued;

(3) Maintain a register of every physical therapist and physical therapist assistant in this state, including the licensee's last known place of business, the licensee's last known residence, and the date and number of the licensee's license;

(4) Deposit all fees collected by the section in accordance with section 4755.03 of the Revised Code;

(5) On receipt of an application for a license to practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, provide to the applicant the section's address, dates of upcoming section meetings, and a list of names of the section members.

Section 4755.411 | Rules to be adopted by physical therapy section.
 

The physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code pertaining to the following:

(A) Fees for the verification of a license and license reinstatement, and other fees established by the section;

(B) Provisions for the section's government and control of its actions and business affairs;

(C) Minimum curricula for physical therapy education programs that prepare graduates to be licensed in this state as physical therapists and physical therapist assistants;

(D) Eligibility criteria to take the examinations required under sections 4755.43 and 4755.431 of the Revised Code;

(E) The form and manner for filing applications for licensure with the section;

(F) For purposes of section 4755.46 of the Revised Code, all of the following:

(1) A schedule regarding when licenses to practice as a physical therapist and physical therapist assistant expire during a biennium;

(2) An additional fee, not to exceed thirty-five dollars, that may be imposed if a licensee files a late application for renewal;

(3) The conditions under which the license of a person who files a late application for renewal will be reinstated.

(G) The issuance, renewal, suspension, and permanent revocation of a license and the conduct of hearings;

(H) Appropriate ethical conduct in the practice of physical therapy;

(I) Requirements, including continuing education requirements, for restoring licenses that are inactive or have lapsed through failure to renew;

(J) Conditions that may be imposed for reinstatement of a license following suspension pursuant to section 4755.47 of the Revised Code;

(K) For purposes of sections 4755.45 and 4755.451 of the Revised Code, both of the following:

(1) Identification of the credentialing organizations from which the section will accept education equivalency evaluations for foreign physical therapist education and foreign physical therapist assistant education. The physical therapy section shall identify only those credentialing organizations that use a course evaluation tool or form approved by the physical therapy section.

(2) Evidence, other than the evaluations described in division (K)(1) of this section, that the section will consider for purposes of evaluating whether an applicant's education is reasonably equivalent to the educational requirements that were in force for licensure in this state as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant on the date of either of the following:

(a) The applicant's initial licensure or registration in another country;

(b) The applicant's completion of a physical therapist education program or physical therapist assistant education program if the country in which the education program was completed does not issue a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant license or registration.

(L) Standards of conduct for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, including requirements for supervision, delegation, and practicing with or without referral or prescription;

(M) Appropriate display of a license;

(N) Procedures for a licensee to follow in notifying the section within thirty days of a change in name or address, or both;

(O) The amount and content of corrective action courses required by the board under section 4755.47 of the Revised Code.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 4:57 AM

Section 4755.412 | Excess fees by physical therapy section authorized.
 

The physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board, subject to the approval of the controlling board, may establish fees in excess of the amounts provided by sections 4755.42, 4755.421, 4755.45, 4755.451, and 4755.46 of the Revised Code, provided that such fees do not exceed those amounts by more than fifty per cent.

Section 4755.42 | License qualifications.
 

(A) Each person seeking licensure as a physical therapist shall file with the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board an application that includes the following:

(1) Name;

(2) Current address;

(3) Proof of graduation from a professional physical therapy program that is accredited by a national physical therapy accreditation agency approved by the physical therapy section.

(B) On making application under division (A) of this section, the applicant shall pay a fee of not more than one hundred twenty-five dollars for the license.

(C) The physical therapy section shall approve an applicant to sit for the examination required under division (A) of section 4755.43 of the Revised Code not later than one hundred twenty days after receiving an application that the section considers complete unless the board has done either of the following:

(1) Requested documents relevant to the section's evaluation of the application;

(2) Notified the applicant in writing of the section's intent to deny a license and the applicant's right to request a hearing in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to appeal the section's intent to deny a license.

(D) If the section fails to comply with division (C) of this section, the section shall refund one-half of the application fee to the applicant.

Last updated August 24, 2021 at 2:22 PM

Section 4755.421 | Physical therapist assistant application.
 

(A) Each person seeking licensure as a physical therapist assistant shall file with the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board an application that includes the following:

(1) Name;

(2) Current address;

(3) Proof of graduation from a professional physical therapist assistant program that is accredited by a national physical therapy accreditation agency approved by the physical therapy section.

(B) On making application under division (A) of this section, the applicant shall pay a fee of not more than one hundred twenty-five dollars for the license.

(C)(1) The physical therapy section shall approve an applicant to sit for the examination required under division (A) of section 4755.431 of the Revised Code not later than one hundred twenty days after receiving an application that the section considers complete unless the board has done either of the following:

(a) Requested documents relevant to the section's evaluation of the application;

(b) Notified the applicant in writing of the section's intent to deny a license and the applicant's right to request a hearing in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to appeal the section's intent to deny a license.

(2) If the section fails to comply with division (C)(1) of this section, the section shall refund half of the application fee to the applicant.

Last updated August 24, 2021 at 2:23 PM

Section 4755.43 | Physical therapist examinations.
 

Except as provided in section 4755.45 of the Revised Code, to be eligible to receive a license to practice as a physical therapist, an applicant must pass both of the following:

(A) A national physical therapy examination for physical therapists approved by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board that tests the applicant's knowledge of the basic and applied sciences as they relate to physical therapy and physical therapy theory and procedures.

(B) A jurisprudence examination on Ohio's laws and rules governing the practice of physical therapy that is approved by the physical therapy section.

Section 4755.431 | Physical therapist assistant examinations.
 

Except as provided in section 4755.451 of the Revised Code, to be eligible to receive a license to practice as a physical therapist assistant, an applicant must pass both of the following:

(A) A national physical therapy examination for physical therapist assistants approved by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.

(B) A jurisprudence examination approved by the physical therapy section on Ohio's laws and rules governing the practice of physical therapy.

Section 4755.44 | Issuance of physical therapist license.
 

If an applicant passes the examination or examinations required under section 4755.43 of the Revised Code and pays the fee required by division (B) of section 4755.42 of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall issue a license, attested by the seal of the board, to the applicant to practice as a physical therapist.

The section shall issue a license to practice as a physical therapist in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code, attested by the seal of the board, to an applicant if either of the following applies:

(A) The applicant holds a license in another state.

(B) The applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as a physical therapist in a state that does not issue that license.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:55 AM

Section 4755.441 | Issuance of physical therapist assistant license.
 

If an applicant passes the examination or examinations required under section 4755.431 of the Revised Code and pays the fee required by division (B) of section 4755.421 of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall issue a license, attested by the seal of the board, to the applicant to practice as physical therapist assistant.

The section shall issue a license to practice as a physical therapist assistant in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code, attested by the seal of the board, to an applicant if either of the following applies:

(A) The applicant holds a license in another state.

(B) The applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as a physical therapist assistant in a state that does not issue that license.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:54 AM

Section 4755.45 | Physical therapist license - reciprocity.
 

(A) The physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall issue to an applicant a license to practice as a physical therapist without requiring the applicant to have passed the national examination for physical therapists described in division (A) of section 4755.43 of the Revised Code within one year of filing an application described in section 4755.42 of the Revised Code if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The applicant presents evidence satisfactory to the physical therapy section that the applicant received a score on the national physical therapy examination described in division (A) of section 4755.43 of the Revised Code that would have been a passing score according to the board in the year the applicant sat for the examination;

(2) The applicant presents evidence satisfactory to the physical therapy section that the applicant passed the jurisprudence examination described in division (B) of section 4755.43 of the Revised Code;

(3) The applicant either:

(a) Holds a current and valid license or registration to practice physical therapy in another country;

(b) Completed a physical therapist education program in a country that does not issue a physical therapist license or registration.

(4) Subject to division (B) of this section, the applicant can demonstrate that the applicant's education is reasonably equivalent to the educational requirements that were in force for licensure in this state on the date of either of the following:

(a) The applicant's initial licensure or registration in the other country;

(b) The applicant's completion of a physical therapist education program if the country in which the education program was completed does not issue a physical therapist license or registration.

(5) The applicant pays the fee described in division (B) of section 4755.42 of the Revised Code;

(6) The applicant is not in violation of any section of this chapter or rule adopted under it.

(B) If, after receiving the results of an education equivalency evaluation from a credentialing organization identified by the section pursuant to rules adopted under section 4755.411 of the Revised Code, the section determines that, regardless of the results of the evaluation, the applicant's education does not meet the conditions of division (A)(4) of this section, the section shall send a written notice to the applicant stating that the section is denying the applicant's application and stating the specific reason why the section is denying the applicant's application. The section shall send the notice to the applicant through certified mail within thirty days after the section makes that determination.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 4:58 AM

Section 4755.451 | Physical therapist assistant license - reciprocity.
 

(A) The physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall issue to an applicant a license as a physical therapist assistant without requiring the applicant to have passed the national examination for physical therapist assistants described in division (A) of section 4755.431 of the Revised Code within one year of filing an application described in section 4755.421 of the Revised Code if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The applicant presents evidence satisfactory to the physical therapy section that the applicant received a score on the national physical therapy examination described in division (A) of section 4755.431 of the Revised Code that would have been a passing score according to the board in the year the applicant sat for the examination;

(2) The applicant presents evidence satisfactory to the physical therapy section that the applicant passed the jurisprudence examination described in division (B) of section 4755.431 of the Revised Code;

(3) The applicant either:

(a) Holds a current and valid license or registration to practice as a physical therapist assistant in another country;

(b) Completed a physical therapist assistant education program in a country that does not issue a physical therapist assistant license or registration.

(4) Subject to division (B) of this section, the applicant can demonstrate that the applicant's education is reasonably equivalent to the educational requirements that were in force for licensure in this state on the date of either of the following:

(a) The applicant's initial licensure or registration in the other country;

(b) The applicant's completion of a physical therapist assistant education program if the country in which the education program was completed does not issue a physical therapist assistant license or registration.

(5) The applicant pays the fee described in division (B) of section 4755.421 of the Revised Code;

(6) The applicant is not in violation of any section of this chapter or rule adopted under it.

(B) If, after receiving the results of an education equivalency evaluation from a credentialing organization identified by the section pursuant to rules adopted under section 4755.411 of the Revised Code, the section determines that, regardless of the results of the evaluation, the applicant's education does not meet the conditions of division (A)(4) of this section, the section shall send a written notice to the applicant stating that the section is denying the applicant's application and stating the specific reason why the section is denying the applicant's application. The section shall send the notice to the applicant through certified mail within thirty days after the section makes the determination.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:00 AM

Section 4755.46 | Renewals.
 

(A) Every license to practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant expires biennially in accordance with the schedule established in rules adopted by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board under section 4755.411 of the Revised Code.

Each individual holding a valid and current license may apply to the physical therapy section to renew the license in accordance with rules adopted by the board under section 4755.411 of the Revised Code. Each application for license renewal shall be accompanied by a biennial renewal fee of not more than one hundred twenty-five dollars and, if applicable, the applicant's signed statement that the applicant completed the continuing education required under section 4755.51 or 4755.551 of the Revised Code within the time frame established in rules adopted by the physical therapy section under section 4755.411 of the Revised Code.

A license that is not renewed by the last day for renewal established in rules shall automatically expire on that date.

(B) Each licensee shall report to the section in writing a change in name, business address, or home address not later than thirty days after the date of the change.

Section 4755.47 | Disciplinary actions.
 

(A) In accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may, except as provided in division (B) of this section, refuse to grant a license to an applicant for an initial or renewed license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant or, by an affirmative vote of not less than five members, may limit, suspend, or revoke the license of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant or reprimand, fine, place a license holder on probation, or require the license holder to take corrective action courses, on any of the following grounds:

(1) Habitual indulgence in the use of controlled substances, other habit-forming drugs, or alcohol to an extent that affects the individual's professional competency;

(2) Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, regardless of the state or country in which the conviction occurred;

(3) Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license issued by the physical therapy section by fraud or deception, including the making of a false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement;

(4) An adjudication by a court, as provided in section 5122.301 of the Revised Code, that the applicant or licensee is incompetent for the purpose of holding the license and has not thereafter been restored to legal capacity for that purpose;

(5) Subject to section 4755.471 of the Revised Code, violation of the code of ethics adopted by the physical therapy section;

(6) Violating or attempting to violate, directly or indirectly, or assisting in or abetting the violation of or conspiring to violate sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code or any order issued or rule adopted under those sections;

(7) Failure of one or both of the examinations required under section 4755.43 or 4755.431 of the Revised Code;

(8) Permitting the use of one's name or license by a person, group, or corporation when the one permitting the use is not directing the treatment given;

(9) Denial, revocation, suspension, or restriction of authority to practice a health care occupation, including physical therapy, for any reason other than a failure to renew, in Ohio or another state or jurisdiction;

(10) Failure to maintain minimal standards of practice in the administration or handling of drugs, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code, or failure to employ acceptable scientific methods in the selection of drugs, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code, or other modalities for treatment;

(11) Willful betrayal of a professional confidence;

(12) Making a false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement in the solicitation of or advertising for patients in relation to the practice of physical therapy;

(13) A departure from, or the failure to conform to, minimal standards of care required of licensees when under the same or similar circumstances, whether or not actual injury to a patient is established;

(14) Obtaining, or attempting to obtain, money or anything of value by fraudulent misrepresentations in the course of practice;

(15) Violation of the conditions of limitation or agreements placed by the physical therapy section on a license to practice;

(16) Failure to renew a license in accordance with section 4755.46 of the Revised Code;

(17) Except as provided in section 4755.471 of the Revised Code, engaging in the division of fees for referral of patients or receiving anything of value in return for a specific referral of a patient to utilize a particular service or business;

(18) Inability to practice according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care because of mental illness or physical illness, including physical deterioration that adversely affects cognitive, motor, or perception skills;

(19) The revocation, suspension, restriction, or termination of clinical privileges by the United States department of defense or department of veterans affairs;

(20) Termination or suspension from participation in the medicare or medicaid program established under Title XVIII and Title XIX, respectively, of the "Social Security Act," 49 Stat. 620 (1935), 42 U.S.C. 301, as amended, for an act or acts that constitute a violation of sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code;

(21) Failure of a physical therapist to maintain supervision of a student, physical therapist assistant, unlicensed support personnel, other assistant personnel, or a license applicant in accordance with the requirements of sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code and rules adopted under those sections;

(22) Failure to complete continuing education requirements as prescribed in section 4755.51 or 4755.511 of the Revised Code or to satisfy any rules applicable to continuing education requirements that are adopted by the physical therapy section;

(23) Conviction of a misdemeanor when the act that constitutes the misdemeanor occurs during the practice of physical therapy;

(24)(a) Except as provided in division (A)(24)(b) of this section, failure to cooperate with an investigation conducted by the physical therapy section, including failure to comply with a subpoena or orders issued by the section or failure to answer truthfully a question presented by the section at a deposition or in written interrogatories.

(b) Failure to cooperate with an investigation does not constitute grounds for discipline under this section if a court of competent jurisdiction issues an order that either quashes a subpoena or permits the individual to withhold the testimony or evidence at issue.

(25) Regardless of whether it is consensual, engaging in any of the following with a patient other than the spouse of the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant:

(a) Sexual conduct, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(b) Sexual contact, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(c) Verbal behavior that is sexually demeaning to the patient or may be reasonably interpreted by the patient as sexually demeaning.

(26) Failure to notify the physical therapy section of a change in name, business address, or home address within thirty days after the date of change;

(27) Except as provided in division (C) of this section:

(a) Waiving the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers physical therapy, would otherwise be required to pay if the waiver is used as an enticement to a patient or group of patients to receive health care services from that provider;

(b) Advertising that the individual will waive the payment of all or any part of a deductible or copayment that a patient, pursuant to a health insurance or health care policy, contract, or plan that covers physical therapy, would otherwise be required to pay.

(28) Violation of any section of this chapter or rule adopted under it.

(B) The physical therapy section shall not refuse to issue a license to an applicant because of a criminal conviction unless the refusal is in accordance with section 9.79 of the Revised Code.

(C) Sanctions shall not be imposed under division (A)(27) of this section against any individual who waives deductibles and copayments as follows:

(1) In compliance with the health benefit plan that expressly allows such a practice. Waiver of the deductibles or copayments shall be made only with the full knowledge and consent of the plan purchaser, payer, and third-party administrator. Documentation of the consent shall be made available to the physical therapy section upon request.

(2) For professional services rendered to any other person licensed pursuant to sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code to the extent allowed by those sections and the rules of the physical therapy section.

(D) When a license is revoked under this section, application for reinstatement may not be made sooner than one year after the date of revocation. The physical therapy section may accept or refuse an application for reinstatement and may require that the applicant pass an examination as a condition for reinstatement.

When a license holder is placed on probation under this section, the physical therapy section's order for placement on probation shall be accompanied by a statement of the conditions under which the individual may be removed from probation and restored to unrestricted practice.

(E) When an application for an initial or renewed license is refused under this section, the physical therapy section shall notify the applicant in writing of the section's decision to refuse issuance of a license and the reason for its decision.

(F) On receipt of a complaint that a person licensed by the physical therapy section has committed any of the actions listed in division (A) of this section, the physical therapy section may immediately suspend the license of the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant prior to holding a hearing in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code if it determines, based on the complaint, that the person poses an immediate threat to the public. The physical therapy section may review the allegations and vote on the suspension by telephone conference call. If the physical therapy section votes to suspend a license under this division, the physical therapy section shall serve a written order of summary suspension to the person in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. If the person fails to make a timely request for an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section shall enter a final order permanently revoking the person's license. Notwithstanding section 119.12 of the Revised Code, a court of common pleas shall not grant a suspension of the physical therapy section's order of summary suspension pending the determination of an appeal filed under that section. Any order of summary suspension issued under this division shall remain in effect, unless reversed on appeal, until a final adjudication order issued by the physical therapy section pursuant to division (A) of this section becomes effective. The physical therapy section shall issue its final adjudication order regarding an order of summary suspension issued under this division not later than ninety days after completion of its hearing. Failure to issue the order within ninety days shall result in immediate dissolution of the suspension order, but shall not invalidate any subsequent, final adjudication order.

Last updated October 4, 2023 at 10:24 AM

Section 4755.471 | Forms of business entities authorized to provide services.
 

(A) An individual whom the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board licenses, certificates, or otherwise legally authorizes to engage in the practice of physical therapy may render the professional services of a physical therapist within this state through a corporation formed under division (B) of section 1701.03 of the Revised Code, a limited liability company formed under former Chapter 1705. of the Revised Code as that chapter existed prior to February 11, 2022, or Chapter 1706. of the Revised Code, a partnership, or a professional association formed under Chapter 1785. of the Revised Code. This division does not preclude an individual of that nature from rendering professional services as a physical therapist through another form of business entity, including, but not limited to, a nonprofit corporation or foundation, or in another manner that is authorized by or in accordance with sections 4755.40 to 4755.53 of the Revised Code, another chapter of the Revised Code, or rules of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board adopted pursuant to sections 4755.40 to 4755.53 of the Revised Code.

(B) A corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or professional association described in division (A) of this section may be formed for the purpose of providing a combination of the professional services of the following individuals who are licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to practice their respective professions:

(1) Optometrists who are authorized to practice optometry under Chapter 4725. of the Revised Code;

(2) Chiropractors who are authorized to practice chiropractic or acupuncture under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code;

(3) Psychologists who are authorized to practice psychology under Chapter 4732. of the Revised Code;

(4) Registered or licensed practical nurses who are authorized to practice nursing as registered nurses or as licensed practical nurses under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code;

(5) Pharmacists who are authorized to practice pharmacy under Chapter 4729. of the Revised Code;

(6) Physical therapists who are authorized to practice physical therapy under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code;

(7) Occupational therapists who are authorized to practice occupational therapy under sections 4755.04 to 4755.13 of the Revised Code;

(8) Mechanotherapists who are authorized to practice mechanotherapy under section 4731.151 of the Revised Code;

(9) Doctors of medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code;

(10) Licensed professional clinical counselors, licensed professional counselors, independent social workers, social workers, independent marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapists, art therapists, or music therapists who are authorized for their respective practices under Chapter 4757. of the Revised Code.

This division shall apply notwithstanding a provision of a code of ethics applicable to a physical therapist that prohibits a physical therapist from engaging in the practice of physical therapy in combination with a person who is licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to practice optometry, chiropractic, acupuncture through the state chiropractic board, psychology, nursing, pharmacy, occupational therapy, mechanotherapy, medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, podiatric medicine and surgery, professional counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, art therapy, or music therapy, but who is not also licensed, certificated, or otherwise legally authorized to engage in the practice of physical therapy.

Last updated October 4, 2023 at 10:26 AM

Section 4755.48 | Prohibitions.
 

(A) No person shall employ fraud or deception in applying for or securing a license to practice physical therapy or to be a physical therapist assistant.

(B) No person shall practice or in any way imply or claim to the public by words, actions, or the use of letters as described in division (C) of this section to be able to practice physical therapy or to provide physical therapy services, including practice as a physical therapist assistant, unless the person holds a valid license under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code or except for submission of claims as provided in section 4755.56 of the Revised Code.

(C) No person shall use the words or letters, physical therapist, physical therapy, physical therapy services, physiotherapist, physiotherapy, physiotherapy services, licensed physical therapist, P.T., Ph.T., P.T.T., R.P.T., L.P.T., M.P.T., D.P.T., M.S.P.T., P.T.A., physical therapy assistant, physical therapist assistant, physical therapy technician, licensed physical therapist assistant, L.P.T.A., R.P.T.A., or any other letters, words, abbreviations, or insignia, indicating or implying that the person is a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant without a valid license under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code.

(D) No person who practices physical therapy or assists in the provision of physical therapy treatments under the supervision of a physical therapist shall fail to display the person's current license granted under sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code in a conspicuous location in the place where the person spends the major part of the person's time so engaged.

(E) Nothing in sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code shall affect or interfere with the performance of the duties of any physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in active service in the army, navy, coast guard, marine corps, air force, public health service, or marine hospital service of the United States, while so serving.

(F) Nothing in sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code shall prevent or restrict the activities or services of a person pursuing a course of study leading to a degree in physical therapy in an accredited or approved educational program if the activities or services constitute a part of a supervised course of study and the person is designated by a title that clearly indicates the person's status as a student.

(G)(1) Subject to division (G)(2) of this section, nothing in sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code shall prevent or restrict the activities or services of any person who holds a current, unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in another state when that person, pursuant to contract or employment with an athletic team located in the state in which the person holds the license, provides physical therapy to any of the following while the team is traveling to or from or participating in a sporting event in this state:

(a) A member of the athletic team;

(b) A member of the athletic team's coaching, communications, equipment, or sports medicine staff;

(c) A member of a band or cheerleading squad accompanying the athletic team;

(d) The athletic team's mascot.

(2) In providing physical therapy pursuant to division (G)(1) of this section, the person shall not do either of the following:

(a) Provide physical therapy at a health care facility;

(b) Provide physical therapy for more than sixty days in a calendar year.

(3) The limitations described in divisions (G)(1) and (2) of this section do not apply to a person who is practicing in accordance with the compact privilege granted by this state through the "Physical Therapy Licensure Compact" entered into under section 4755.57 of the Revised Code.

(4) The physical therapy section of the occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall not require a nonresident person who holds a license to practice physical therapy in another state to obtain a license in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to provide physical therapy services in the manner described under division (G)(1) of this section.

(H)(1) Except as provided in division (H)(2) of this section and subject to division (I) of this section, no person shall practice physical therapy other than on the prescription of, or the referral of a patient by, a person who is licensed in this or another state to do at least one of the following:

(a) Practice medicine and surgery, chiropractic, dentistry, osteopathic medicine and surgery, podiatric medicine and surgery;

(b) Practice as a physician assistant;

(c) Practice nursing as an advanced practice registered nurse.

(2) The prohibition in division (H)(1) of this section on practicing physical therapy other than on the prescription of, or the referral of a patient by, any of the persons described in that division does not apply if either of the following applies to the person:

(a) The person holds a master's or doctorate degree from a professional physical therapy program that is accredited by a national physical therapy accreditation agency approved by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.

(b) On or before December 31, 2004, the person has completed at least two years of practical experience as a licensed physical therapist.

(I) To be authorized to prescribe physical therapy or refer a patient to a physical therapist for physical therapy, a person described in division (H)(1) of this section must be in good standing with the relevant licensing board in this state or the state in which the person is licensed and must act only within the person's scope of practice.

(J) In the prosecution of any person for violation of division (B) or (C) of this section, it is not necessary to allege or prove want of a valid license to practice physical therapy or to practice as a physical therapist assistant, but such matters shall be a matter of defense to be established by the accused.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 7:45 AM

Section 4755.481 | Treatment without prescription or referral.
 

(A) If a physical therapist evaluates and treats a patient without the prescription of, or the referral of the patient by, a person described in division (H)(1) of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code, all of the following apply:

(1) The physical therapist shall, upon consent of the patient, inform the relevant person described in division (H)(1) of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code of the evaluation not later than five business days after the evaluation is made.

(2) If the physical therapist determines, based on reasonable evidence, that no substantial progress has been made with respect to that patient during the thirty-day period immediately following the date of the patient's initial visit with the physical therapist, the physical therapist shall consult with or refer the patient to a person described in division (H)(1) of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code, unless either of the following applies:

(a) The evaluation, treatment, or services are being provided for fitness, wellness, or prevention purposes.

(b) The patient previously was diagnosed with chronic, neuromuscular, or developmental conditions and the evaluation, treatment, or services are being provided for problems or symptoms associated with one or more of those previously diagnosed conditions.

(3) If the physical therapist determines that orthotic devices are necessary to treat the patient, the physical therapist shall be limited to the application of the following orthotic devices:

(a) Upper extremity adaptive equipment used to facilitate the activities of daily living;

(b) Finger splints;

(c) Wrist splints;

(d) Prefabricated elastic or fabric abdominal supports with or without metal or plastic reinforcing stays and other prefabricated soft goods requiring minimal fitting;

(e) Nontherapeutic accommodative inlays;

(f) Shoes that are not manufactured or modified for a particular individual;

(g) Prefabricated foot care products;

(h) Custom foot orthotics;

(i) Durable medical equipment.

(4) If, at any time, the physical therapist has reason to believe that the patient has symptoms or conditions that require treatment or services beyond the scope of practice of a physical therapist, the physical therapist shall refer the patient to a licensed health care practitioner acting within the practitioner's scope of practice.

(B) Nothing in sections 4755.40 to 4755.56 of the Revised Code shall be construed to require reimbursement under any health insuring corporation policy, contract, or agreement, any sickness and accident insurance policy, the medicaid program, or the health partnership program or qualified health plans established pursuant to sections 4121.44 to 4121.442 of the Revised Code, for any physical therapy service rendered without the prescription of, or the referral of the patient by, a person described in division (H)(1) of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code.

(C) For purposes of this section, "business day" means any calendar day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. "Legal holiday" has the same meaning as in section 1.14 of the Revised Code.

Section 4755.482 | Requirements for teaching physical therapy - violations - sanctions.
 

(A) Except as otherwise provided in divisions (B) and (C) of this section, a person shall not teach a physical therapy theory and procedures course in physical therapy education without obtaining a license as a physical therapist from the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.

(B) A nonresident person who is registered or licensed as a physical therapist under the laws of another state shall not teach a physical therapy theory and procedures course in physical therapy education for more than one year without obtaining a license as a physical therapist from the physical therapy section, and the section shall not require that person to obtain a license in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to teach as described in this division.

(C) A person who is registered or licensed as a physical therapist under the laws of a foreign country and is not registered or licensed as a physical therapist in any state who wishes to teach a physical therapy theory and procedures course in physical therapy education in this state, or an institution that wishes the person to teach such a course at the institution, may apply to the physical therapy section to request authorization for the person to teach such a course for a period of not more than one year. Any member of the physical therapy section may approve the person's or institution's application. No person described in this division shall teach such a course for longer than one year without obtaining a license from the physical therapy section.

(D) The physical therapy section may investigate any person who allegedly has violated this section. The physical therapy section has the same powers to investigate an alleged violation of this section as those powers specified in section 4755.02 of the Revised Code. If, after investigation, the physical therapy section determines that reasonable evidence exists that a person has violated this section, within seven days after that determination, the physical therapy section shall serve a written notice to that person in the same manner as prescribed in sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code for licensees, except that the notice shall specify that a hearing will be held and specify the date, time, and place of the hearing.

The physical therapy section shall hold a hearing regarding the alleged violation in the same manner prescribed for an adjudication hearing under section 119.09 of the Revised Code. If the physical therapy section, after the hearing, determines a violation has occurred, the physical therapy section may discipline the person in the same manner as the physical therapy section disciplines licensees under section 4755.47 of the Revised Code. The physical therapy section's determination is an order that the person may appeal in accordance with section 119.12 of the Revised Code.

If a person who allegedly committed a violation of this section fails to appear for a hearing, the physical therapy section may request the court of common pleas of the county where the alleged violation occurred to compel the person to appear before the physical therapy section for a hearing. If the physical therapy section assesses a person a civil penalty for a violation of this section and the person fails to pay that civil penalty within the time period prescribed by the physical therapy section, the physical therapy section shall forward to the attorney general the name of the person and the amount of the civil penalty for the purpose of collecting that civil penalty. In addition to the civil penalty assessed pursuant to this section, the person also shall pay any fee assessed by the attorney general for collection of the civil penalty.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 4:59 AM

Section 4755.50 | No restrictions on licensed health care professional.
 

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent or restrict the practice of any person who is a licensed health care professional in this state while practicing within the scope of the person's license and according to the standards and ethics of the person's profession, or of any person employed by or acting under the supervision of that licensed health care professional. Services rendered by a person acting under the supervision or in the employment of a licensed health care professional shall not be designated physical therapy.

Section 4755.51 | Continuing education.
 

Except in the case of a first license renewal, a physical therapist is eligible for renewal of the physical therapist's license only if the physical therapist has completed twenty-four units of continuing education in one or more courses, activities, or programs approved by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.

On request of the physical therapy section, an applicant for license renewal shall submit evidence satisfactory to the section of completion of the required continuing physical therapy education.

Section 4755.511 | License renewal - continuing education requirements.
 

Except in the case of a first license renewal, a physical therapist assistant is eligible for renewal of the physical therapist assistant's license only if the physical therapist assistant has completed twelve units of continuing education in one or more courses, activities, or programs approved by the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board.

On request of the physical therapy section, an applicant for license renewal shall submit evidence satisfactory to the section of completion of the required continuing physical therapist assistant education.

Section 4755.52 | Administrative rules for approval of courses, programs and activities.
 

(A) In accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall adopt rules specifying standards, in addition to the standards specified by division (B) of this section, for approval of continuing education courses, programs, and activities for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.

(B) To be eligible for approval by the physical therapy section, a continuing education course, program, or activity shall meet all of the following requirements:

(1) Include significant intellectual or practical content, the primary objective of which is to improve the professional competence of the participant;

(2) Be an organized program of learning dealing with matters directly related to the practice of physical therapy, professional responsibility, ethical obligations, or similar subjects that the section determines maintain and improve the quality of physical therapy services in this state;

(3) Consist of in-person instruction or other methods of instruction, including the use of self-study materials prepared and conducted by an individual or a group qualified by practical or academic experience as determined by the section;

(4) Be presented in a setting physically suited to the educational activity of the course, program, or activity;

(5) Include thorough, high-quality written material;

(6) Meet any other standards established by rule of the section adopted under division (A) of this section.

(C) The physical therapy section shall review physical therapy continuing education programs, courses, and activities and grant approval to those that meet the standards established under divisions (A) and (B) of this section. If the section denies approval of a course, program, or activity, it shall give a written explanation of the reason for denial to the person requesting approval.

The physical therapy section may approve continuing education courses, programs, and activities that have been approved by an agency in another state that governs the licensure of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants if the section determines that the standards for continuing education courses established by the agency are comparable to those established pursuant to this section.

The physical therapy section may contract with the Ohio chapter of the American physical therapy association for assistance in performance of the section's duties under this section.

Section 4755.53 | Continuing education - granting units.
 

(A) Subject to division (B) of this section, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall grant continuing education units to a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant as follows:

(1) For completing an approved continuing education course, program, or activity, one unit for each hour of instruction received;

(2) For teaching as a faculty member of an institution of higher education a course that is part of the curriculum of the institution, one-half unit for each semester hour of the course, or an equivalent portion of a unit, as determined by the section, for each quarter or trimester hour of the course;

(3) For teaching an approved course that is part of the curriculum of an institution of higher education other than as a faculty member, one unit for each hour of teaching the course;

(4) For teaching an approved course, program, or activity, other than a course that is part of the curriculum of an institution of higher education, three units for each hour of teaching the course, program, or activity the first time and one-half unit for each hour of teaching the course, program, or activity any time after the first time;

(5) For authoring a published article or book, up to ten units as determined by the physical therapy section.

(B) The physical therapy section shall grant no more than twelve units of continuing education for teaching during a biennial renewal period.

(C) The physical therapy section may contract with the Ohio chapter of the American physical therapy association for assistance in performance of the section's duties under this section.

Section 4755.56 | Insurance claims to specify license number of physical therapy service provider.
 

(A) As used in this section:

(1) "Governmental health care program" has the same meaning as in section 4731.65 of the Revised Code.

(2) "Third-party payer" has the same meaning as in section 3901.38 of the Revised Code.

(B)(1) Except as provided in division (B)(2) of this section, each person and governmental entity, when submitting to a governmental health care program or third-party payer a claim for payment for services rendered in this state that are designated in the claim as physical therapy, shall specify in the claim one of the following:

(a) The national provider identifier that is assigned by the United States secretary of health and human services or the secretary's designee pursuant to 45 C.F.R. 162.406 and 162.408 to the physical therapist licensed under this chapter who rendered the services;

(b) The national provider identifier that is assigned by the United States secretary of health and human services or the secretary's designee pursuant to 45 C.F.R. 162.406 and 162.408 to the health care professional who rendered the services in accordance with section 4755.50 of the Revised Code.

(2) The requirement of division (B)(1) of this section to specify the national provider identifiers on claims for services designated as physical therapy does not apply to a hospital, as defined in section 3727.01 of the Revised Code, or to any entity submitting a claim on behalf of a hospital unless otherwise required by federal law.

(C) Each physical therapist licensed under this chapter who renders or supervises physical therapy, and each health care professional licensed in this state who renders services in accordance with section 4755.50 of the Revised Code designated as physical therapy, shall provide a patient, when the patient is responsible for submitting a claim to a governmental health care program or third-party payer, with the physical therapist's or health care professional's national provider identifier and a written explanation of the provisions of divisions (B)(1) and (D) of this section.

(D) A governmental health care program or third-party payer is not required to pay a claim for payment for services designated as physical therapy that does not specify the national provider identifiers required by division (B)(1) of this section. If the claim was submitted by the physical therapist who rendered or supervised the services, another health care professional who rendered or supervised the services in accordance with section 4755.50 of the Revised Code, or an entity other than a patient on behalf of the therapist or health care professional, the patient is not required to pay any amount for the services specified in the claim.

Section 4755.57 | Physical therapy licensure compact.
 

The "Physical Therapy Licensure Compact" is hereby ratified, enacted into law, and entered into by the state of Ohio as a party to the compact with any other state that has legally joined in the compact as follows:

PHYSICAL THERAPY LICENSURE COMPACT

SECTION 1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Compact is to facilitate interstate practice of physical therapy with the goal of improving public access to physical therapy services. The practice of physical therapy occurs in the state where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter. The Compact preserves the regulatory authority of states to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure.

This Compact is designed to achieve the following objectives:

1. Increase public access to physical therapy services by providing for the mutual recognition of other member state licenses;

2. Enhance the states' ability to protect the public's health and safety;

3. Encourage the cooperation of member states in regulating multi-state physical therapy practice;

4. Support spouses of relocating military members;

5. Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information between member states; and

6. Allow a remote state to hold a provider of services with a compact privilege in that state accountable to that state's practice standards.

SECTION 2. DEFINITIONS

As used in this Compact, and except as otherwise provided, the following definitions shall apply:

1. "Active duty military" means full-time duty status in the active uniformed service of the United States, including members of the National Guard and Reserve on active duty orders pursuant to 10 U.S.C. Section 1209 and 1211.

2. "Adverse Action" means disciplinary action taken by a physical therapy licensing board based upon misconduct, unacceptable performance, or a combination of both.

3. "Alternative Program" means a non-disciplinary monitoring or practice remediation process approved by a physical therapy licensing board. This includes, but is not limited to, substance abuse issues.

4. "Compact privilege" means the authorization granted by a remote state to allow a licensee from another member state to practice as a physical therapist or work as a physical therapist assistant in the remote state under its laws and rules. The practice of physical therapy occurs in the member state where the patient/client is located at the time of the patient/client encounter.

5. "Continuing competence" means a requirement, as a condition of license renewal, to provide evidence of participation in, and/or completion of, educational and professional activities relevant to practice or area of work.

6. "Data system" means a repository of information about licensees, including examination, licensure, investigative, compact privilege, and adverse action.

7. "Encumbered license" means a license that a physical therapy licensing board has limited in any way.

8. "Executive Board" means a group of directors elected or appointed to act on behalf of, and within the powers granted to them by, the Commission.

9. "Home state" means the member state that is the licensee's primary state of residence.

10. "Investigative information" means information, records, and documents received or generated by a physical therapy licensing board pursuant to an investigation.

11. "Jurisprudence Requirement" means the assessment of an individual's knowledge of the laws and rules governing the practice of physical therapy in a state.

12. "Licensee" means an individual who currently holds an authorization from the state to practice as a physical therapist or to work as a physical therapist assistant.

13. "Member state" means a state that has enacted the Compact.

14. "Party state" means any member state in which a licensee holds a current license or compact privilege or is applying for a license or compact privilege.

15. "Physical therapist" means an individual who is licensed by a state to practice physical therapy.

16. "Physical therapist assistant" means an individual who is licensed/certified by a state and who assists the physical therapist in selected components of physical therapy.

17. "Physical therapy," "physical therapy practice," and "the practice of physical therapy" mean the care and services provided by or under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

18. "Physical Therapy Compact Commission" or "Commission" means the national administrative body whose membership consists of all states that have enacted the Compact.

19. "Physical therapy licensing board" or "licensing board" means the agency of a state that is responsible for the licensing and regulation of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.

20. "Remote State" means a member state other than the home state, where a licensee is exercising or seeking to exercise the compact privilege.

21. "Rule" means a regulation, principle, or directive promulgated by the Commission that has the force of law.

22. "State" means any state, commonwealth, district, or territory of the United States of America that regulates the practice of physical therapy.

SECTION 3. STATE PARTICIPATION IN THE COMPACT

A. To participate in the Compact, a state must:

1. Participate fully in the Commission's data system, including using the Commission's unique identifier as defined in rules;

2. Have a mechanism in place for receiving and investigating complaints about licensees;

3. Notify the Commission, in compliance with the terms of the Compact and rules, of any adverse action or the availability of investigative information regarding a licensee;

4. Fully implement a criminal background check requirement, within a time frame established by rule, by receiving the results of the Federal Bureau of Investigation record search on criminal background checks and use the results in making licensure decisions in accordance with Section 3.B.;

5. Comply with the rules of the Commission;

6. Utilize a recognized national examination as a requirement for licensure pursuant to the rules of the Commission; and

7. Have continuing competence requirements as a condition for license renewal.

B. Upon adoption of this statute, the member state shall have the authority to obtain biometric-based information from each physical therapy licensure applicant and submit this information to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a criminal background check in accordance with 28 U.S.C. § 534 and 42 U.S.C. § 14616.

C. A member state shall grant the compact privilege to a licensee holding a valid unencumbered license in another member state in accordance with the terms of the Compact and rules.

D. Member states may charge a fee for granting a compact privilege.

SECTION 4. COMPACT PRIVILEGE

A. To exercise the compact privilege under the terms and provisions of the Compact, the licensee shall:

1. Hold a license in the home state;

2. Have no encumbrance on any state license;

3. Be eligible for a compact privilege in any member state in accordance with Sections 4D, G and H;

4. Have not had any adverse action against any license or compact privilege within the previous 2 years;

5. Notify the Commission that the licensee is seeking the compact privilege within a remote state(s);

6. Pay any applicable fees, including any state fee, for the compact privilege;

7. Meet any jurisprudence requirements established by the remote state(s) in which the licensee is seeking a compact privilege; and

8. Report to the Commission adverse action taken by any non-member state within 30 days from the date the adverse action is taken.

B. The compact privilege is valid until the expiration date of the home license. The licensee must comply with the requirements of Section 4.A. to maintain the compact privilege in the remote state.

C. A licensee providing physical therapy in a remote state under the compact privilege shall function within the laws and regulations of the remote state.

D. A licensee providing physical therapy in a remote state is subject to that state's regulatory authority. A remote state may, in accordance with due process and that state's laws, remove a licensee's compact privilege in the remote state for a specific period of time, impose fines, and/or take any other necessary actions to protect the health and safety of its citizens. The licensee is not eligible for a compact privilege in any state until the specific time for removal has passed and all fines are paid.

E. If a home state license is encumbered, the licensee shall lose the compact privilege in any remote state until the following occur:

1. The home state license is no longer encumbered; and

2. Two years have elapsed from the date of the adverse action.

F. Once an encumbered license in the home state is restored to good standing, the licensee must meet the requirements of Section 4A to obtain a compact privilege in any remote state.

G. If a licensee's compact privilege in any remote state is removed, the individual shall lose the compact privilege in any remote state until the following occur:

1. The specific period of time for which the compact privilege was removed has ended;

2. All fines have been paid; and

3. Two years have elapsed from the date of the adverse action.

H. Once the requirements of Section 4G have been met, the license must meet the requirements in Section 4A to obtain a compact privilege in a remote state.

SECTION 5. ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL OR THEIR SPOUSES

A licensee who is active duty military or is the spouse of an individual who is active duty military may designate one of the following as the home state:

A. Home of record;

B. Permanent Change of Station (PCS); or

C. State of current residence if it is different than the PCS state or home of record.

SECTION 6. ADVERSE ACTIONS

A. A home state shall have exclusive power to impose adverse action against a license issued by the home state.

B. A home state may take adverse action based on the investigative information of a remote state, so long as the home state follows its own procedures for imposing adverse action.

C. Nothing in this Compact shall override a member state's decision that participation in an alternative program may be used in lieu of adverse action and that such participation shall remain non-public if required by the member state's laws. Member states must require licensees who enter any alternative programs in lieu of discipline to agree not to practice in any other member state during the term of the alternative program without prior authorization from such other member state.

D. Any member state may investigate actual or alleged violations of the statutes and rules authorizing the practice of physical therapy in any other member state in which a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant holds a license or compact privilege.

E. A remote state shall have the authority to:

1. Take adverse actions as set forth in Section 4.D. against a licensee's compact privilege in the state;

2. Issue subpoenas for both hearings and investigations that require the attendance and testimony of witnesses, and the production of evidence. Subpoenas issued by a physical therapy licensing board in a party state for the attendance and testimony of witnesses, and/or the production of evidence from another party state, shall be enforced in the latter state by any court of competent jurisdiction, according to the practice and procedure of that court applicable to subpoenas issued in proceedings pending before it. The issuing authority shall pay any witness fees, travel expenses, mileage, and other fees required by the service statutes of the state where the witnesses and/or evidence are located; and

3. If otherwise permitted by state law, recover from the licensee the costs of investigations and disposition of cases resulting from any adverse action taken against that licensee.

F. Joint Investigations

1. In addition to the authority granted to a member state by its respective physical therapy practice act or other applicable state law, a member state may participate with other member states in joint investigations of licensees.

2. Member states shall share any investigative, litigation, or compliance materials in furtherance of any joint or individual investigation initiated under the Compact.

SECTION 7. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PHYSICAL THERAPY COMPACT COMMISSION.

A. The Compact member states hereby create and establish a joint public agency known as the Physical Therapy Compact Commission:

1. The Commission is an instrumentality of the Compact states.

2. Venue is proper and judicial proceedings by or against the Commission shall be brought solely and exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction where the principal office of the Commission is located. The Commission may waive venue and jurisdictional defenses to the extent it adopts or consents to participate in alternative dispute resolution proceedings.

3. Nothing in this Compact shall be construed to be a waiver of sovereign immunity.

B. Membership, Voting, and Meetings

1. Each member state shall have and be limited to one (1) delegate selected by that member state's licensing board.

2. The delegate shall be a current member of the licensing board, who is a physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, public member, or the board administrator.

3. Any delegate may be removed or suspended from office as provided by the law of the state from which the delegate is appointed.

4. The member state board shall fill any vacancy occurring in the Commission.

5. Each delegate shall be entitled to one (1) vote with regard to the promulgation of rules and creation of bylaws and shall otherwise have an opportunity to participate in the business and affairs of the Commission.

6. A delegate shall vote in person or by such other means as provided in the bylaws. The bylaws may provide for delegates' participation in meetings by telephone or other means of communication.

7. The Commission shall meet at least once during each calendar year. Additional meetings shall be held as set forth in the bylaws.

C. The Commission shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Establish the fiscal year of the Commission;

2. Establish bylaws;

3. Maintain its financial records in accordance with the bylaws;

4. Meet and take such actions as are consistent with the provisions of this Compact and the bylaws;

5. Promulgate uniform rules to facilitate and coordinate implementation and administration of this Compact. The rules shall have the force and effect of law and shall be binding in all member states;

6. Bring and prosecute legal proceedings or actions in the name of the Commission, provided that the standing of any state physical therapy licensing board to sue or be sued under applicable law shall not be affected;

7. Purchase and maintain insurance and bonds;

8. Borrow, accept, or contract for services of personnel, including, but not limited to, employees of a member state;

9. Hire employees, elect or appoint officers, fix compensation, define duties, grant such individuals appropriate authority to carry out the purposes of the Compact, and to establish the Commission's personnel policies and programs relating to conflicts of interest, qualifications of personnel, and other related personnel matters;

10. Accept any and all appropriate donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials and services, and to receive, utilize and dispose of the same; provided that at all times the Commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety and/or conflict of interest;

11. Lease, purchase, accept appropriate gifts or donations of, or otherwise to own, hold, improve or use, any property, real, personal or mixed; provided that at all times the Commission shall avoid any appearance of impropriety;

12. Sell convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, exchange, abandon, or otherwise dispose of any property real, personal, or mixed;

13. Establish a budget and make expenditures;

14. Borrow money;

15. Appoint committees, including standing committees composed of members, state regulators, state legislators or their representatives, and consumer representatives, and such other interested persons as may be designated in this Compact and the bylaws;

16. Provide and receive information from, and cooperate with, law enforcement agencies;

17. Establish and elect an Executive Board; and

18. Perform such other functions as may be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of this Compact consistent with the state regulation of physical therapy licensure and practice.

D. The Executive Board

The Executive Board shall have the power to act on behalf of the Commission according to the terms of this Compact.

1. The Executive Board shall be comprised of nine members:

a. Seven voting members who are elected by the Commission from the current membership of the Commission;

b. One ex-officio, nonvoting member from the recognized national physical therapy professional association; and

c. One ex-officio, nonvoting member from the recognized membership organization of the physical therapy licensing boards.

2. The ex-officio members will be selected by their respective organizations.

3. The Commission may remove any member of the Executive Board as provided in bylaws.

4. The Executive Board shall meet at least annually.

5. The Executive Board shall have the following Duties and responsibilities:

a. Recommend to the entire Commission changes to the rules or bylaws, changes to this Compact legislation, fees paid by Compact member states such as annual dues, and any commission Compact fee charged to licensees for the compact privilege;

b. Ensure Compact administration services are appropriately provided, contractual or otherwise;

c. Prepare and recommend the budget;

d. Maintain financial records on behalf of the Commission;

e. Monitor Compact compliance of member states and provide compliance reports to the Commission;

f. Establish additional committees as necessary; and

g. Other duties as provided in rules or bylaws.

E. Meetings of the Commission

1. All meetings shall be open to the public, and public notice of meetings shall be given in the same manner as required under the rulemaking provisions in Section 9.

2. The Commission or the Executive Board or other committees of the Commission may convene in a closed, non-public meeting if the Commission or Executive Board or other committees of the Commission must discuss:

a. Non-compliance of a member state with its obligations under the Compact;

b. The employment, compensation, discipline or other matters, practices or procedures related to specific employees or other matters related to the Commission's internal personnel practices and procedures;

c. Current, threatened, or reasonably anticipated litigation;

d. Negotiation of contracts for the purchase, lease, or sale of goods, services, or real estate;

e. Accusing any person of a crime or formally censuring any person;

f. Disclosure of trade secrets or commercial or financial information that is privileged or confidential;

g. Disclosure of information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;

h. Disclosure of investigative records compiled for law enforcement purposes;

i. Disclosure of information related to any investigative reports prepared by or on behalf of or for use of the Commission or other committee charged with responsibility of investigation or determination of compliance issues pursuant to the Compact; or

j. Matters specifically exempted from disclosure by federal or member state statute.

3. If a meeting, or portion of a meeting, is closed pursuant to this provision, the Commission's legal counsel or designee shall certify that the meeting may be closed and shall reference each relevant exempting provision.

4. The Commission shall keep minutes that fully and clearly describe all matters discussed in a meeting and shall provide a full and accurate summary of actions taken, and the reasons therefore, including a description of the views expressed. All documents considered in connection with an action shall be identified in such minutes. All minutes and documents of a closed meeting shall remain under seal, subject to release by a majority vote of the Commission or order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

F. Financing of the Commission

1. The Commission shall pay, or provide for the payment of, the reasonable expenses of its establishment, organization, and ongoing activities.

2. The Commission may accept any and all appropriate revenue sources, donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services.

3. The Commission may levy on and collect an annual assessment from each member state or impose fees on other parties to cover the cost of the operations and activities of the Commission and its staff, which must be in a total amount sufficient to cover its annual budget as approved each year for which revenue is not provided by other sources. The aggregate annual assessment amount shall be allocated based upon a formula to be determined by the Commission, which shall promulgate a rule binding upon all member states.

4. The Commission shall not incur obligations of any kind prior to securing the funds adequate to meet the same; nor shall the Commission pledge the credit of any of the member states, except by and with the authority of the member state.

5. The Commission shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. The receipts and disbursements of the Commission shall be subject to the audit and accounting procedures established under its bylaws. However, all receipts and disbursements of funds handled by the Commission shall be audited yearly by a certified or licensed public accountant, and the report of the audit shall be included in and become part of the annual report of the Commission.

G. Qualified Immunity, Defense, and Indemnification

1. The members, officers, executive director, employees and representatives of the Commission shall be immune from suit and liability, either personally or in their official capacity, for any claim for damage to or loss of property or personal injury or other civil liability caused by or arising out of any actual or alleged act, error or omission that occurred, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties or responsibilities; provided that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to protect any such person from suit and/or liability for any damage, loss, injury, or liability caused by the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person.

2. The Commission shall defend any member, officer, executive director, employee or representative of the Commission in any civil action seeking to impose liability arising out of any actual or alleged act, error, or omission that occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that the person against whom the claim is made had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities; provided that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit that person from retaining his or her own counsel; and provided further, that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from that person's intentional or willful or wanton misconduct.

3. The Commission shall indemnify and hold harmless any member, officer, executive director, employee, or representative of the Commission for the amount of any settlement or judgment obtained against that person arising out of any actual or alleged act, error or omission that occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, or that such person had a reasonable basis for believing occurred within the scope of Commission employment, duties, or responsibilities, provided that the actual or alleged act, error, or omission did not result from the intentional or willful or wanton misconduct of that person.

SECTION 8. DATA SYSTEM

A. The Commission shall provide for the development, maintenance, and utilization of a coordinated database and reporting system containing licensure, adverse action, and investigative information on all licensed individuals in member states.

B. Notwithstanding any other provision of state law to the contrary, a member state shall submit a uniform data set to the data system on all individuals to whom this Compact is applicable as required by the rules of the Commission, including:

1. Identifying information;

2. Licensure data;

3. Adverse actions against a license or compact privilege;

4. Non-confidential information related to alternative program participation;

5. Any denial of application for licensure, and the reason(s) for such denial; and

6. Other information that may facilitate the administration of this Compact, as determined by the rules of the Commission.

C. Investigative information pertaining to a licensee in any member state will only be available to other party states.

D. The Commission shall promptly notify all member states of any adverse action taken against a licensee or an individual applying for a license. Adverse action information pertaining to a licensee in any member state will be available to any other member state.

E. Member states contributing information to the data system may designate information that may not be shared with the public without the express permission of the contributing state.

F. Any information submitted to the data system that is subsequently required to be expunged by the laws of the member state contributing the information shall be removed from the data system.

SECTION 9. RULEMAKING

A. The Commission shall exercise its rulemaking powers pursuant to the criteria set forth in this Section and the rules adopted thereunder. Rules and amendments shall become binding as of the date specified in each rule or amendment.

B. If a majority of the legislatures of the member states rejects a rule, by enactment of a statute or resolution in the same manner used to adopt the Compact within 4 years of the date of adoption of the rule, then such rule shall have no further force and effect in any member state.

C. Rules or amendments to the rules shall be adopted at a regular or special meeting of the Commission.

D. Prior to promulgation and adoption of a final rule or rules by the Commission, and at least thirty (30) days in advance of the meeting at which the rule will be considered and voted upon, the Commission shall file a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking:

1. On the website of the Commission or other publicly accessible platform; and

2. On the website of each member state physical therapy licensing board or other publicly accessible platform or the publication in which each state would otherwise publish proposed rules.

E. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking shall include:

1. The proposed time, date, and location of the meeting in which the rule will be considered and voted upon;

2. The text of the proposed rule or amendment and the reason for the proposed rule;

3. A request for comments on the proposed rule from any interested person; and

4. The manner in which interested persons may submit notice to the Commission of their intention to attend the public hearing and any written comments.

F. Prior to adoption of a proposed rule, the Commission shall allow persons to submit written data, facts, opinions, and arguments, which shall be made available to the public.

G. The Commission shall grant an opportunity for a public hearing before it adopts a rule or amendment if a hearing is requested by:

1. At least twenty-five (25) persons;

2. A state or federal governmental subdivision or agency; or

3. An association having at least twenty-five (25) members.

H. If a hearing is held on the proposed rule or amendment, the Commission shall publish the place, time, and date of the scheduled public hearing. If the hearing is held via electronic means, the Commission shall publish the mechanism for access to the electronic hearing.

1. All persons wishing to be heard at the hearing shall notify the executive director of the Commission or other designated member in writing of their desire to appear and testify at the hearing not less than five (5) business days before the scheduled date of the hearing.

2. Hearings shall be conducted in a manner providing each person who wishes to comment a fair and reasonable opportunity to comment orally or in writing.

3. All hearings will be recorded. A copy of the recording will be made available on request.

4. Nothing in this section shall be construed as requiring a separate hearing on each rule. Rules may be grouped for the convenience of the Commission at hearings required by this section.

I. Following the scheduled hearing date, or by the close of business on the scheduled hearing date if the hearing was not held, the Commission shall consider all written and oral comments received.

J. If no written notice of intent to attend the public hearing by interested parties is received, the Commission may proceed with promulgation of the proposed rule without a public hearing.

K. The Commission shall, by majority vote of all members, take final action on the proposed rule and shall determine the effective date of the rule, if any, based on the rulemaking record and the full text of the rule.

L. Upon determination that an emergency exists, the Commission may consider and adopt an emergency rule without prior notice, opportunity for comment, or hearing, provided that the usual rulemaking procedures provided in the Compact and in this section shall be retroactively applied to the rule as soon as reasonably possible, in no event later than ninety (90) days after the effective date of the rule. For the purposes of this provision, an emergency rule is one that must be adopted immediately in order to:

1. Meet an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare;

2. Prevent a loss of Commission or member state funds;

3. Meet a deadline for the promulgation of an administrative rule that is established by federal law or rule; or

4. Protect public health and safety.

M. The Commission or an authorized committee of the Commission may direct revisions to a previously adopted rule or amendment for purposes of correcting typographical errors, errors in format, errors in consistency, or grammatical errors. Public notice of any revisions shall be posted on the website of the Commission. The revision shall be subject to challenge by any person for a period of thirty (30) days after posting. The revision may be challenged only on grounds that the revision results in a material change to a rule. A challenge shall be made in writing, and delivered to the chair of the Commission prior to the end of the notice period. If no challenge is made, the revision will take effect without further action. If the revision is challenged, the revision may not take effect without the approval of the Commission.

SECTION 10. OVERSIGHT, DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AND ENFORCEMENT

A. Oversight

1. The executive, legislative, and judicial branches of state government in each member state shall enforce this Compact and take all actions necessary and appropriate to effectuate the Compact's purposes and intent. The provisions of this Compact and the rules promulgated hereunder shall have standing as statutory law.

2. All courts shall take judicial notice of the Compact and the rules in any judicial or administrative proceeding in a member state pertaining to the subject matter of this Compact which may affect the powers, responsibilities or actions of the Commission.

3. The Commission shall be entitled to receive service of process in any such proceeding, and shall have standing to intervene in such a proceeding for all purposes. Failure to provide service of process to the Commission shall render a judgment or order void as to the Commission, this Compact, or promulgated rules.

B. Default, Technical Assistance, and Termination

1. If the Commission determines that a member state has defaulted in the performance of its obligations or responsibilities under this Compact or the promulgated rules, the Commission shall:

a. Provide written notice to the defaulting state and other member states of the nature of the default, the proposed means of curing the default and/or any other action to be taken by the Commission; and

b. Provide remedial training and specific technical assistance regarding the default.

2. If a state in default fails to cure the default, the defaulting state may be terminated from the Compact upon an affirmative vote of a majority of the member states, and all rights, privileges and benefits conferred by this Compact may be terminated on the effective date of termination. A cure of the default does not relieve the offending state of obligations or liabilities incurred during the period of default.

3. Termination of membership in the Compact shall be imposed only after all other means of securing compliance have been exhausted. Notice of intent to suspend or terminate shall be given by the Commission to the governor, the majority and minority leaders of the defaulting state's legislature, and each of the member states.

4. A state that has been terminated is responsible for all assessments, obligations, and liabilities incurred through the effective date of termination, including obligations that extend beyond the effective date of termination.

5. The Commission shall not bear any costs related to a state that is found to be in default or that has been terminated from the Compact, unless agreed upon in writing between the Commission and the defaulting state.

6. The defaulting state may appeal the action of the Commission by petitioning the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the Commission has its principal offices. The prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorney's fees.

C. Dispute Resolution

1. Upon request by a member state, the Commission shall attempt to resolve disputes related to the Compact that arise among member states and between member and non-member states.

2. The Commission shall promulgate a rule providing for both mediation and binding dispute resolution for disputes as appropriate.

D. Enforcement

1. The Commission, in the reasonable exercise of its discretion, shall enforce the provisions and rules of this Compact.

2. By majority vote, the Commission may initiate legal action in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia or the federal district where the Commission has its principal offices against a member state in default to enforce compliance with the provisions of the Compact and its promulgated rules and bylaws. The relief sought may include both injunctive relief and damages. In the event judicial enforcement is necessary, the prevailing member shall be awarded all costs of such litigation, including reasonable attorney's fees.

3. The remedies herein shall not be the exclusive remedies of the Commission. The Commission may pursue any other remedies available under federal or state law.

SECTION 11. DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTERSTATE COMMISSION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE AND ASSOCIATED RULES, WITHDRAWAL, AND AMENDMENT

A. The Compact shall come into effect on the date on which the Compact statute is enacted into law in the tenth member state. The provisions, which become effective at that time, shall be limited to the powers granted to the Commission relating to assembly and the promulgation of rules. Thereafter, the Commission shall meet and exercise rulemaking powers necessary to the implementation and administration of the Compact.

B. Any state that joins the Compact subsequent to the Commission's initial adoption of the rules shall be subject to the rules as they exist on the date on which the Compact becomes law in that state. Any rule that has been previously adopted by the Commission shall have the full force and effect of law on the day the Compact becomes law in that state.

C. Any member state may withdraw from this Compact by enacting a statute repealing the same.

1. A member state's withdrawal shall not take effect until six (6) months after enactment of the repealing statute.

2. Withdrawal shall not affect the continuing requirement of the withdrawing state's physical therapy licensing board to comply with the investigative and adverse action reporting requirements of this act prior to the effective date of withdrawal.

D. Nothing contained in this Compact shall be construed to invalidate or prevent any physical therapy licensure agreement or other cooperative arrangement between a member state and a non-member state that does not conflict with the provisions of this Compact.

E. This Compact may be amended by the member states. No amendment to this Compact shall become effective and binding upon any member state until it is enacted into the laws of all member states.

SECTION 12. CONSTRUCTION AND SEVERABILITY

This Compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this Compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this Compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this Compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this Compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any party state, the Compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the party state affected as to all severable matters.

Last updated May 7, 2021 at 12:12 PM

Section 4755.571 | Delegate to physical therapy compact commission.
 

Not later than ninety days after the "Physical Therapy Licensure Compact" is entered into under section 4755.57 of the Revised Code, the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall select an individual to serve as a delegate to the physical therapy compact commission created under the compact. The physical therapy section shall fill a vacancy in this position not later than ninety days after the vacancy occurs.

Last updated May 7, 2021 at 12:14 PM

Section 4755.60 | Athletic trainer definitions.
 

As used in sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 and 4755.99 of the Revised Code:

(A) "Athletic trainer" means a person who meets the qualifications of this chapter for licensure and is authorized to engage in the activities described in section 4755.621 or 4755.622 of the Revised Code.

(B) "Licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs" or "prescriber" has the same meaning as in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code.

(C) "Physician" means an individual authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery.

Last updated November 3, 2021 at 2:57 PM

Section 4755.61 | Athletic trainers section of board - powers and duties.
 

(A) The athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall:

(1) Adopt rules, not inconsistent with this chapter, for the licensure of athletic trainers, including rules that specify the application form and educational course work and clinical experience requirements for licensure and rules that prescribe requirements for criminal records checks of applicants under section 4776.03 of the Revised Code;

(2) Establish and deposit fees in accordance with division (B) of this section and section 4755.03 of the Revised Code;

(3) Conduct hearings, keep records of its proceedings, and do all things necessary and proper to administer and enforce sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code;

(4) Publish and make available, upon request and for a fee not to exceed the actual cost of printing and mailing, the requirements for the issuance of an athletic trainers license under this chapter and the rules adopted under it;

(5) Maintain a register of every person licensed to practice athletic training in this state, including the addresses of the licensee's last known place of business and residence, and the effective date and identification number of the person's license. The section shall make this list available to any person upon request and payment of a fee not to exceed the actual cost of printing and mailing.

(6) Publish and make available, upon request and for a fee not to exceed the actual cost of printing and mailing, a list of persons who passed the examination required under section 4755.62 of the Revised Code;

(7) Investigate complaints concerning alleged violations of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code or other grounds for the suspension, revocation, or refusal to issue a license under section 3123.47 or 4755.64 of the Revised Code. In connection with its investigations, the athletic trainers section may subpoena witnesses, issue subpoenas, examine witnesses, administer oaths, and, under the direction of the executive director of the board, investigate complaints and make inspections and other inquiries as in the judgment of the section are appropriate to enforce sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 and this chapter of the Revised Code. The section may review and audit the records of any licensee during normal business hours at the licensee's place of business or at any other place where the licensee's records are kept. Notwithstanding section 149.43 of the Revised Code, the athletic trainers section and its employees, except pursuant to a court order, shall maintain in confidence all information obtained.

(8) Adopt rules governing the nature and scope of the examination required under section 4755.62 of the Revised Code and the reexamination required under section 4755.63 of the Revised Code and the minimum examination score for licensure or renewal thereof. The rules for the examination required under section 4755.62 of the Revised Code shall ensure the testing of the applicant's knowledge of the basic and clinical sciences relating to athletic training theory and practice, including professional skills and judgment in the utilization of athletic training techniques and such other subjects as the athletic trainers section considers useful in determining competency to practice athletic training.

(9) Conduct the examination required under section 4755.62 of the Revised Code at least twice a year at a time and place and under such supervision as the athletic trainers section determines;

(10) Adopt rules to determine which states' standards for licensure are equal to or greater than this state's for the purpose of waiving requirements under division (D) of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code;

(11) Adopt rules to determine which examinations meet the requirements of division (E) of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code;

(12) Adopt rules establishing the standards of ethical conduct for licensed athletic trainers under this chapter;

(13) Adopt rules specifying the scope and nature of the continuing education courses that are acceptable to the athletic trainers section and the number of courses that must be completed to comply with the requirement for renewal of a license under section 4755.63 of the Revised Code.

(14) Adopt rules establishing the schedule when licenses to practice as an athletic trainer expire during a biennium for purposes of section 4755.63 of the Revised Code.

(B) The fees adopted by the athletic trainers section pursuant to division (A)(2) of this section shall be established and adjusted as required to provide sufficient revenues to meet the expenses of the section in administering sections 4755.60 to 4755.66 of the Revised Code. The fees shall include the following:

(1) A nonrefundable examination fee, not to exceed the amount necessary to cover the expense of administering the examination;

(2) An initial license fee;

(3) A biennial license renewal fee;

(4) A late renewal penalty, not to exceed fifty per cent of the renewal fee.

The athletic trainers section may, by rule, provide for the waiver of all or part of a license fee if the license is issued less than one hundred days before its expiration date.

(C) All rules under sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code shall be adopted by the athletic trainers section in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Section 4755.62 | License qualifications.
 

(A) No person shall claim to the public to be an athletic trainer or imply by words, actions, or letters that the person is an athletic trainer, or otherwise engage in the practice of athletic training, unless the person is licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter.

(B) Except as otherwise provided in division (B) of section 4755.65 of the Revised Code, no educational institution, partnership, association, or corporation shall advertise or otherwise offer to provide or convey the impression that it is providing athletic training unless an individual licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter is employed by, or under contract to, the educational institution, partnership, association, or corporation and will be performing the athletic training services to which reference is made.

(C) To qualify for an athletic trainers license, a person shall:

(1) Have satisfactorily completed an application for licensure in accordance with rules adopted by the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code;

(2) Have paid the examination fee required under this section;

(3) Have shown, to the satisfaction of the athletic trainers section, that the applicant has received a baccalaureate or higher degree from an institution of higher education, approved by the athletic trainers section of the board and the federal regional accreditation agency and recognized by the council on postsecondary accreditation, and has satisfactorily completed the educational course work requirements established by rule of the athletic trainers section under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code.

(4) In addition to educational course work requirements, have obtained supervised clinical experience that meets the requirements established in rules adopted by the athletic trainers section under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code;

(5) Have passed an examination adopted by the athletic trainers section under division (A)(8) of section 4755.61 of the Revised Code. Each applicant for licensure shall pay, at the time of application, the nonrefundable examination fee set by the athletic trainers section.

(D) The section shall issue a license to engage in the practice of athletic training in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to an applicant who holds a license in another state or to an applicant who has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as an athletic trainer in a state that does not issue that license.

(E) The section shall issue a license to every applicant who complies with the requirements of division (C) of this section, files the required application form, and pays the fees required by section 4755.61 of the Revised Code. Each licensee shall display the licensee's license in a conspicuous place at the licensee's principal place of employment.

A license issued under this section entitles the holder to engage in the practice of athletic training, to claim to the public to be an athletic trainer, or to imply by words or letters that the licensee is an athletic trainer. A license issued under this section does not entitle the holder to provide, offer to provide, or represent that the holder is qualified to provide any care or services for which the holder lacks the education, training, or experience to provide or is prohibited by law from providing.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:52 AM

Section 4755.621 | Athletic trainers' practice under collaboration agreements.
 

(A) As used in this section, "athletic training diagnosis" means the judgment made after examining, evaluating, assessing, or interpreting symptoms presented by a patient to establish the cause and nature of the patient's injury, emergent condition, or functional impairment and the plan of care for that injury, emergent condition, or functional impairment within the scope of athletic training. "Athletic training diagnosis" does not include a medical diagnosis.

(B) A person licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter may enter into a collaboration agreement with one or more physicians.

The agreement shall be in writing and signed by the athletic trainer and each physician with whom the athletic trainer collaborates. A copy of the agreement shall be maintained in the records of the athletic trainer and each collaborating physician.

The agreement shall address all of the following:

(1) The duties and responsibilities to be fulfilled by the athletic trainer when engaging in the activities described in division (C) of this section;

(2) Any limitations on the athletic trainer's performance of the activities described in division (C) of this section;

(3) A plan of care for patients treated by the athletic trainer.

(C) Subject to division (B) of this section and section 4755.623 of the Revised Code, a person licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter who enters into a collaboration agreement is authorized to engage in all of the following activities:

(1) The prevention, examination, and athletic training diagnosis of injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities that require physical skill and utilize strength, power, endurance, speed, flexibility, range of motion, or agility;

(2) The complete management, treatment, disposition, and reconditioning of injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities;

(3) The provision of emergent care, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation for injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities;

(4) The promotion of and education about wellness;

(5) The administration of drugs, including topical drugs, that have been prescribed by a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs and are administered under the direction of the prescriber, except that an athletic trainer shall not administer intra-articular or intratendinous injections ;

(6) The performance of athletic training research;

(7) The organization and administration of educational programs and athletic training facilities;

(8) The education of and consulting with the public as it pertains to athletic training.

Last updated November 8, 2021 at 11:42 AM

Section 4755.622 | Athletic trainers' practice without collaboration agreements.
 

(A) As used in this section, "athletic injury" means any injury sustained by an individual that affects the individual's participation or performance in sports, games, recreation, exercise, or other activity that requires physical strength, agility, flexibility, speed, stamina, or range of motion.

(B) Subject to section 4755.623 of the Revised Code, in the event a person licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter does not enter into a collaboration agreement with one or more physicians as described in division (B) of section 4755.621 of the Revised Code, the person is authorized to engage only in the following activities:

(1) The practice of prevention, recognition, and assessment of an athletic injury;

(2) The complete management, treatment, disposition, and reconditioning of acute athletic injuries;

(3) The administration of topical drugs that have been prescribed by a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs;

(4) The organization and administration of educational programs and athletic facilities;

(5) The education of and consulting with the public as it pertains to athletic training.

Last updated November 8, 2021 at 11:42 AM

Section 4755.623 | Required referrals for athletic training.
 

(A) A person licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter shall engage in the activities described in section 4755.621 or 4755.622 only if the person acts upon the referral of one or more of the following:

(1) A physician;

(2) A dentist licensed under Chapter 4715. of the Revised Code;

(3) A physical therapist licensed under this chapter;

(4) A chiropractor licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code;

(5) Subject to division (B) of this section, an athletic trainer licensed under this chapter;

(6) A physician assistant licensed under Chapter 4730. of the Revised Code;

(7) A certified nurse practitioner licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code.

(B) A person licensed as an athletic trainer pursuant to this chapter may practice upon the referral of an athletic trainer described in division (A) of this section only if athletic training has already been recommended and referred by a health care provider described in division (A) of this section who is not an athletic trainer.

Last updated November 8, 2021 at 11:43 AM

Section 4755.63 | Renewal of license.
 

Each license issued under section 4755.62 of the Revised Code expires biennially in accordance with the schedule established in rules adopted by the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code, but each person holding a valid, unexpired license may apply to the athletic trainers section, on forms approved by the section, for license renewal. The section shall renew a license upon the payment of the license renewal fee prescribed by section 4755.61 of the Revised Code, submission of the renewal application, and submission to the section of proof of satisfactory completion of the required number of continuing education courses, as specified in rules adopted by the section under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code.

Section 4755.64 | Disciplinary actions.
 

(A) In accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board may suspend, revoke, or, except as provided in division (B) of this section, refuse to issue or renew an athletic trainers license, or reprimand, fine, or place a licensee on probation, for any of the following:

(1) Conviction of a felony or offense involving moral turpitude, regardless of the state or country in which the conviction occurred;

(2) Violation of sections 4755.61 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code or any order issued or rule adopted thereunder;

(3) Obtaining a license through fraud, false or misleading representation, or concealment of material facts;

(4) Negligence or gross misconduct in the practice of athletic training;

(5) Violating the standards of ethical conduct in the practice of athletic training as adopted by the athletic trainers section under section 4755.61 of the Revised Code;

(6) Using any controlled substance or alcohol to the extent that the ability to practice athletic training at a level of competency is impaired;

(7) Practicing in an area of athletic training for which the individual is untrained or incompetent, or practicing without the referral of a practitioner described in division (A) of section 4755.623 of the Revised Code;

(8) Employing, directing, or supervising a person in the performance of athletic training procedures who is not authorized to practice as a licensed athletic trainer under this chapter;

(9) Misrepresenting educational attainments or the functions the individual is authorized to perform for the purpose of obtaining some benefit related to the individual's athletic training practice;

(10) Failing the licensing examination;

(11) Aiding or abetting the unlicensed practice of athletic training;

(12) Denial, revocation, suspension, or restriction of authority to practice a health care occupation, including athletic training, for any reason other than a failure to renew, in Ohio or another state or jurisdiction;

(13) Regardless of whether it is consensual, engaging in any of the following with a patient other than the spouse of the athletic trainer:

(a) Sexual conduct, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(b) Sexual contact, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised Code;

(c) Verbal behavior that is sexually demeaning to the patient or may be reasonably interpreted by the patient as sexually demeaning;

(14) In the case of an athletic trainer who has entered into a collaboration agreement as described in section 4755.621 of the Revised Code, failing to practice in accordance with the agreement.

(B) The athletic trainers section shall not refuse to issue a license to an applicant because of a criminal conviction unless the refusal is in accordance with section 9.79 of the Revised Code.

(C) If the athletic trainers section places a licensee on probation under division (A) of this section, the section's order for placement on probation shall be accompanied by a written statement of the conditions under which the person may be removed from probation and restored to unrestricted practice.

(D) A licensee whose license has been revoked under division (A) of this section may apply to the athletic trainers section for reinstatement of the license one year following the date of revocation. The athletic trainers section may accept or deny the application for reinstatement and may require that the applicant pass an examination as a condition for reinstatement.

(E) On receipt of a complaint that a person licensed by the athletic trainers section has committed any of the prohibited actions listed in division (A) of this section, the section may immediately suspend the license of a licensed athletic trainer prior to holding a hearing in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code if it determines, based on the complaint, that the licensee poses an immediate threat to the public. The section may review the allegations and vote on the suspension by telephone conference call. If the section votes to suspend a license under this division, the section shall serve a written order of summary suspension to the licensed athletic trainer in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. If the individual whose license is suspended fails to make a timely request for an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the section shall enter a final order permanently revoking the individual's license. Notwithstanding section 119.12 of the Revised Code, a court of common pleas shall not grant a suspension of the section's order of summary suspension pending the determination of an appeal filed under that section. Any order of summary suspension issued under this division shall remain in effect, unless reversed on appeal, until a final adjudication order issued by the section pursuant to division (A) of this section becomes effective. The section shall issue its final adjudication order regarding an order of summary suspension issued under this division not later than ninety days after completion of its hearing. Failure to issue the order within ninety days shall result in immediate dissolution of the suspension order, but shall not invalidate any subsequent, final adjudication order.

Last updated October 4, 2023 at 10:32 AM

Section 4755.65 | Exemptions.
 

(A) Nothing in sections 4755.61 to 4755.64 of the Revised Code shall be construed to prevent or restrict the practice, services, or activities of any person who:

(1) Is an individual authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatry, a dentist licensed under Chapter 4715. of the Revised Code, a chiropractor licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code, a dietitian licensed under Chapter 4759. of the Revised Code, a physical therapist licensed under this chapter, or a qualified member of any other occupation or profession practicing within the scope of the person's license or profession and who does not claim to the public to be an athletic trainer;

(2) Is employed as an athletic trainer by an agency of the United States government and provides athletic training solely under the direction or control of the agency by which the person is employed;

(3) Is a student in an athletic training education program approved by the athletic trainers section leading to a baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college or university and is performing duties that are a part of a supervised course of study;

(4) Is a nonresident individual not licensed as an athletic trainer in this state who practices or offers to practice athletic training while traveling with a visiting team or organization from outside the state or an event approved by the section for the purpose of providing athletic training to the visiting team, organization, or event;

(5) Provides athletic training only to relatives or in medical emergencies;

(6) Provides gratuitous care to friends or members of the person's family;

(7) Provides only self-care.

(B) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent any person licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code and whose license is in good standing, any person authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery and whose certificate to practice is in good standing, any person authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice podiatry and whose certificate to practice is in good standing, any person licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code to practice chiropractic and whose license is in good standing, any person licensed as a dietitian under Chapter 4759. of the Revised Code to practice dietetics and whose license is in good standing, any person licensed as a physical therapist under this chapter to practice physical therapy and whose license is in good standing, or any association, corporation, or partnership from advertising, describing, or offering to provide athletic training, or billing for athletic training if the athletic training services are provided by a person licensed under this chapter and practicing within the scope of the person's license, by a person licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code and practicing within the scope of the person's license, by a person authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice podiatry, by a person authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery, by a person licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code to practice chiropractic, or by a person licensed under Chapter 4759. of the Revised Code to practice dietetics.

(C) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authorizing a licensed athletic trainer to practice medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, podiatry, or chiropractic.

(D) The athletic trainer section of the occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall not require a nonresident individual licensed as an athletic trainer in another state to obtain a license in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to practice or offer to practice athletic training in the manner described under division (A)(4) of this section.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:35 AM

Section 4755.66 | Effect of child support default on license.
 

On receipt of a notice pursuant to section 3123.43 of the Revised Code, the appropriate section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall comply with sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 of the Revised Code and any applicable rules adopted under section 3123.63 of the Revised Code with respect to a license issued pursuant to this chapter.

Section 4755.70 | License applicant to comply with RC Chapter 4776.
 

(A) As used in this section, "license" and "applicant for an initial license" have the same meanings as in section 4776.01 of the Revised Code, except that "license" as used in both of those terms refers to the types of authorizations otherwise issued or conferred under this chapter.

(B) In addition to any other eligibility requirement set forth in this chapter, each applicant for an initial license shall comply with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code. The occupational therapy section, the physical therapy section, and the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall not grant a license to an applicant for an initial license unless the applicant complies with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 9, 2021 at 4:59 AM

Section 4755.71 | Compliance with law regarding sanctions for human trafficking.
 

The Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board shall comply with section 4776.20 of the Revised Code.

Section 4755.90 | Telehealth services.
 

An occupational therapist or physical therapist may provide telehealth services in accordance with section 4743.09 of the Revised Code.

An occupational therapy assistant or physical therapist assistant may provide telehealth services in accordance with section 4743.09 of the Revised Code.

Last updated January 27, 2022 at 3:34 PM

Section 4755.99 | Penalty.
 

(A) Whoever violates sections 4755.05 or 4755.62 or divisions (A), (B), (C), (D), or (H) of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If the offender has previously been convicted of an offense under that section, the offender is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree on a first offense and a misdemeanor of the first degree on each subsequent offense.

(B)(1) One-half of all fines collected for violation of section 4755.05 of the Revised Code shall be distributed to the occupational therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board and then paid into the state treasury to the credit of the occupational licensing and regulatory fund, and one-half to the treasury of the municipal corporation in which the offense was committed, or if the offense was committed outside the limits of a municipal corporation, to the treasury of the county.

(2) One-half of all fines collected for violation of section 4755.48 of the Revised Code shall be distributed to the physical therapy section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board and then paid into the state treasury to the credit of the occupational licensing and regulatory fund, and one-half to the treasury of the municipal corporation in which the offense was committed, or if the offense was committed outside the limits of a municipal corporation, to the treasury of the county.

(3) One-half of all fines collected for violation of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code shall be distributed to the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board and then paid into the state treasury to the credit of the occupational licensing and regulatory fund, and one-half to the treasury of the municipal corporation in which the offense was committed, or if the offense was committed outside the limits of a municipal corporation, to the treasury of the county.