Regulatory board structure, complaint process, disciplinary actions, and continuing competence
What this domain tests
This domain tests how the New Hampshire Board of Physical Therapy is organized, how a complaint moves through the system, what discipline can look like, and what a licensee must do to renew competently.
Core rules and concepts
- The Board of Physical Therapy regulates PTs and PTAs in New Hampshire and is supported administratively by the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. The Board is composed of appointed members, including physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, and public representation. Know the current composition and term rules from the statute and Board rules.
- A complaint is filed with the Board or OPLC. The Board screens it, may investigate, and may dismiss it or proceed to a hearing. The licensee must respond to Board correspondence and cooperate with investigations.
- Discipline can include reprimand, probation, suspension, revocation, civil penalties, continuing education, supervision requirements, and cost recovery. Discipline is separate from a civil lawsuit or criminal charge.
- Continuing competence is required for renewal. The Board sets the number of continuing education hours per renewal cycle, category limits, documentation, and any ethics requirement. Keep certificates and verify the current rule before renewal.
Worked example
A licensee receives a Board inquiry about a complaint and ignores it because no lawsuit has been filed. That is a serious mistake. The Board process is independent of civil litigation. The licensee should respond on time, provide requested records, and seek legal advice if needed. Ignoring the Board can lead to additional discipline separate from the original allegation.
Traps that cost marks
Do not assume a complaint is dismissed because the patient does not sue. Do not treat continuing education as a last-minute formality; category limits and documentation matter. Do not rely on memory for renewal hours; use the current Board rule.
Exam focus
Separate four stages: board structure, complaint intake and investigation, discipline, and renewal competence. Then apply the stage named in the question.