SENATE BILL REPORT

                  SHB 1113

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

            Health & Long-Term Care, March 31, 1999

Title:  An act relating to the practice of occupational therapy.

Brief Description:  Revising provisions relating to occupational therapy.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives Campbell, Cody and Boldt).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  3/18/99, 3/31/99 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Thibaudeau, Chair; Wojahn, Vice Chair; Costa, Deccio, Franklin, Johnson and Winsley.

Staff:  Joan K. Mell (786-7447)

Background:  Occupational therapists want to update their licensing provisions, changing their name to occupational therapy practitioners, and increasing their referral sources from physicians and podiatrists to other kinds of providers.

Occupational therapists evaluate, treat, and consult in methods designed to assist people in overcoming limitations in work functions or daily activities.

Summary of Bill:  Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are considered occupational therapy practitioners when the context applies to either therapists or assistants.  Physicians, osteopathic physicians, podiatrists, surgeons, naturopaths, chiropractors, physician assistants, psychologists, and advanced registered nurse practitioners can refer patients to occupational therapists.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  The name change is needed as an update consistent with national standards.  The additional providers are consistent with current medical practices involving providers other than traditional medical physicians.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  PRO:  Kathy Stewart, Lori Stephens, WA Occupational Therapy Assn.