Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 671 - GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Overview
The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy is the regulatory authority responsible for licensing, regulating, and overseeing occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants within the state. The Board ensures that practitioners meet professional standards to provide safe and effective occupational therapy services to the public.
Purpose and Mission
To protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by regulating the practice of occupational therapy.
To ensure that occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) are qualified and competent.
To establish and enforce standards of professional conduct and ethical practice.
To investigate complaints and take disciplinary actions when necessary.
Key Functions
Licensing
Establishes requirements for initial licensure of occupational therapists and assistants, including education, examination, and background checks.
Processes applications for license renewal and reinstatement.
Issues licenses to qualified applicants.
Education and Examination Requirements
Requires applicants to have graduated from an accredited occupational therapy educational program.
Requires successful passage of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
Sets standards for continuing education to maintain licensure.
Scope of Practice
Defines the scope and limitations of occupational therapy services.
Regulates the supervision requirements for occupational therapy assistants.
Specifies acts and procedures that constitute the lawful practice of occupational therapy.
Standards of Practice and Professional Conduct
Establishes rules regarding ethical behavior, confidentiality, and patient rights.
Sets requirements for documentation, informed consent, and professional responsibility.
Provides guidelines for resolving conflicts of interest and professional boundaries.
Disciplinary Authority
Investigates complaints against licensees for violations such as malpractice, fraud, substance abuse, or unethical behavior.
Has authority to impose penalties, including fines, license suspension, or revocation.
Provides mechanisms for hearings, appeals, and reinstatement.
Renewal and Continuing Education
Licenses must be renewed periodically (usually biennially).
Licensees must complete continuing education credits approved by the Board to stay current with best practices.
Eligibility for Licensure
Applicants must:
Graduate from an accredited occupational therapy program.
Pass the NBCOT certification exam.
Submit to a criminal background check.
Meet any additional requirements prescribed by the Board.
Application Process
Submit a completed application form along with required fees.
Provide official transcripts and NBCOT exam results.
Undergo background screening.
Comply with any additional requests by the Board during application review.
Enforcement and Compliance
The Board conducts audits and investigations to ensure compliance with laws and rules.
Licensees must adhere strictly to the regulations governing practice.
Failure to comply can result in disciplinary proceedings.
Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Regulate occupational therapy practice to protect the public |
| Licensing Requirements | Accredited education, NBCOT exam, background check |
| Scope of Practice | Defines legal occupational therapy acts and supervision |
| Professional Standards | Ethics, confidentiality, documentation |
| Disciplinary Powers | Investigate complaints, impose penalties |
| Continuing Education | Required for license renewal |
| Renewal Period | Typically every two years |
Conclusion
The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy ensures that occupational therapists and assistants provide competent, ethical, and lawful care. By enforcing licensure standards, monitoring professional conduct, and requiring continuing education, the Board protects patients and maintains high-quality occupational therapy services throughout Georgia.
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