Common Categories of Unprofessional Conduct
The Board regularly reviews a wide range of complaints submitted by the public, healthcare professionals, employers, and government agencies. Complaints that lead to disciplinary action typically fall within three categories of unprofessional conduct under the Uniform Disciplinary Act (RCW 18.130):
- Ethics
- Professional and Legal Responsibility
- Impaired Practice
For details, read the full article.
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Renewing Your License
Under Washington law (RCW 18.74.070), all licensed physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) must renew their license annually. Licenses expire on the licensee’s birthday.
The renewal period starts 90 days before your birthday and ends on your birthday. There is no grace period after your birthdate—if you do not renew in time, your license will expire, and you will no longer be allowed to practice.
Click here for details on continuing competency requirements and fees.
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What Happens When a Complaint Is Filed Against You?
Anyone can file a complaint against a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant through the Department of Health (DOH). Complaints may be submitted anonymously. So, what happens next? And what are your options once you are notified?
Each complaint is evaluated on its own merits. The Board has a duty to protect the public and treats every complaint seriously. The time required to resolve a case varies, depending on the complexity of the issues and whether legal proceedings are involved.
Learn more about the disciplinary process.
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Mandatory Reporting – When a License Holder Self-Reports
Washington law requires healthcare providers, including PTs and PTAs, to self-report specific events. Under WAC 246-16-230, license holders must report:
- Any conviction, determination, or finding of unprofessional conduct.
- Information indicating they are unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety due to a mental or physical condition.
- Any disqualification from participation in the federal Medicare or Medicaid program.
How to Self-Report
If you need to file a self-report, complete the Health Systems Quality Assurance (HSQA) Intake Form on the Department of Health website. Select the self-reporting option and provide all relevant information.
Review and Disciplinary Process
Upon receiving a report, the Board reviews it to determine whether a violation may have occurred. If a violation is suspected, the Board authorizes an investigation. If the investigation finds that disciplinary action is warranted, the case proceeds through the process outlined on the DOH website.
A self-report does not automatically lead to disciplinary action. Each case is reviewed individually to determine whether a violation has occurred.
Protect your license. Know your reporting responsibilities.
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Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Management System (HELMS)
The Department of Health is excited to launch a new system for all healthcare professionals and facilities called HELMS (Health Enforcement and Licensing Management System). It brings applications and credentialing online with a modern, self-service user portal. This custom tool improves processing and provides a more secure, transparent experience.
There are several ways to learn more about HELMS. You can follow step-by-step instructions on our Apply Online Instructions page, download instructions in the HELMS User Portal Guide (PDF), or click here to watch the HELMS portal introduction video.
If you have any questions about the HELMS project, please contact us.
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