| SUMMARY OF: | A Sunset Review on the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, State Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Board, June 17, 2013 |
Purpose of the Report
In accordance with Title 24 and Title 44 of the Alaska Statutes (sunset legislation), we have reviewed the State Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Board’s (board) activities. The purpose of this audit was to determine whether there is a demonstrated public need for the board’s continued existence and whether it has been operating in an effective manner. As required by AS 44.66.050(a), this report shall be considered by the committee of reference during the legislative oversight process in determining whether the board should be reestablished. Currently, under AS 08.03.010(c)(16), the board will terminate on June 30, 2014, and will have one year from that date to conclude its administrative operations.
Report Conclusions
We conclude that the board’s termination date should be extended. The board is protecting the public’s interest by effectively licensing and regulating physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapy assistants. The board monitors licensees and ensures that only qualified individuals practice. Furthermore, the board develops and adopts regulatory changes to improve the physical and occupational therapy professions in Alaska. We recommend that the board’s termination date be extended to June 30, 2022.
The prior sunset audit included one recommendation which has been resolved. This report makes one new recommendation to the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing (DCBPL) to address various deficiencies in its investigations case management system.
Findings and Recommendations
- DCBPL’s director should continue to improve the investigative case management system’s integrity and confidentiality.