HI HB1070

Expands scope of practice for licensed occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech pathologists employed by or contracted with the Department of Education to diagnose medical conditions treatable by their respective services when providing services to students in educational settings.

Allows occupational therapists to diagnose medical conditions and provide services including evaluating student needs, developing treatment plans, improving motor and cognitive skills, adapting classroom environments, and recommending assistive technology.

Allows physical therapists to diagnose medical conditions and provide services including assessing physical abilities, developing individualized treatment plans, improving strength and mobility, adapting school environments, and recommending adaptive equipment.

Allows speech pathologists to diagnose medical conditions treatable by speech pathology services when working with Department of Education students in educational settings.

Takes effect upon approval; aims to create a more cost-effective model for delivering therapeutic services and enable the Department of Education to claim reimbursement for services without requiring prior physician prescriptions.