This bill updates the definitions and regulations related to the practice of occupational therapy in New Hampshire. It revises the existing statutes to provide a comprehensive description of what constitutes occupational therapy, the role of occupational therapists and assistants, and the scope of occupational therapy services. The bill specifies the areas of occupation covered by occupational therapy, which include activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, health management, rest and sleep, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation. It also details the practices of occupational therapy, such as evaluation, diagnosis, intervention, remediation, compensation, habilitation, rehabilitation, health promotion, therapeutic exercises, and the use of assistive technology, among others.

Significant changes include the authorization for occupational therapy services to be provided without a referral, subject to regulatory and payer requirements, which is a new provision in RSA 326-C:2. The bill also corrects a reference in RSA 328-F:2 VI, changing "III" to "IV" to align with the updated definitions. Additionally, it adds a new paragraph to RSA 326-C:5, emphasizing that no person shall practice occupational therapy in the state unless licensed under this chapter, while also ensuring that the bill does not restrict other licensed professionals from practicing their respective professions. The act was approved on May 19, 2023, and will take effect on July 18, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 328-F:2
As Amended by the House: 328-F:2, 326-C:5
Version adopted by both bodies: 328-F:2, 326-C:5
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 328-F:2, 326-C:5