Friday, October 1, 2010

National and State Licensing

National Licensing
  • In order to practice, all occupational therapists must successfully complete the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).  
  • NCBOT is a not-for-profit credentialing agency for occupational therapists and assistants.
  • They develop, adminster, and review the certification process to ensure it reflects standards of competent practice.
  • In order to sit for the exam, the individual must have graduated from ACOTE accredited occupational therapy or assistant program and completed required fieldwork.
 

State Licensing
  • Occupational therapy is regulated in all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and Guam.
  • Types of regulation vary from state to state from licensure, which is the strongest form of regulation, to title protection or trademark, which is the weakest form.
  • Regulation is in place to protect consumers from unqualified practitioners.
  • In the state of Florida, occupational therapists are required to obtain state licensure. This is regulated by the Florida Department of Health.
  • In order to obtain a license, one must:
    • Graduate from an accredited OT program
    • Complete fieldwork requirements
    • Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam
    • Apply for a license and pay a fee
    

No comments:

Post a Comment