District of Columbia PT, OT and SLP guide

For OT, PT and SLP clinics in the District of Columbia: the Board of Rehabilitative Therapies licenses all three disciplines; the licensing law defines physical therapy as independent evaluation or treatment, and its rules describe treatment on a prescription or referral; DC Medicaid covers children’s therapy under EPSDT and adults within its own rules; and telehealth follows the patient’s location.⁠^1,2,3,4,5

Who licenses OTs, PTs and SLPs in the District of Columbia?

The District of Columbia Board of Rehabilitative Therapies licenses all three disciplines, and each profession has its own statute and continuing-education requirement.⁠^1,6,7 A clinic that employs more than one discipline still keeps three registers, not one.

Physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists all answer to the District of Columbia Board of Rehabilitative Therapies, each profession under its own statute and continuing-education rule.⁠^1,6,7 The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies regulates physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology and recreational therapy, with their assistants; D.C. Law 25-191 (July 19, 2024) has it assume regulatory authority from the separate Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year after July 19, 2024, or earlier once its first appointments are made, and DC Health’s board page lists the three professions under it.⁠^{1,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45} A license is required to practice physical therapy, or to practice as a physical therapist assistant, in the District.⁠^{1,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45} The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies regulates physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology and recreational therapy, with their assistants; D.C. Law 25-191 (July 19, 2024) has it assume regulatory authority from the separate Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year after July 19, 2024, or earlier once its first appointments are made, and DC Health’s board page lists the three professions under it.⁠^{6,46,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60} A license is required to practice occupational therapy, or to practice as an occupational therapy assistant, in the District.⁠^{6,46,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60} The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies regulates physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology and recreational therapy, with their assistants; D.C. Law 25-191 (July 19, 2024) has it assume regulatory authority from the separate Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year after July 19, 2024, or earlier once its first appointments are made, and DC Health’s board page lists the three professions under it.⁠^{7,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74,75,76,77} A license is required to practice speech-language pathology in the District, and speech-language pathology assistants and clinical fellows practice under a registration.⁠^{7,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74,75,76,77} A license is a District authorization; a national certification (NBCOT for occupational therapy, the ASHA certificate for speech-language pathology, the NPTE for physical therapy) is a different thing and does not replace it. Compact privileges for practitioners licensed elsewhere are covered under telehealth below.

What does a District of Columbia license renewal require?

The board sets the cycle and hours for each profession, listed in the table above, and the register template at the end of this page tracks them per clinician.⁠^1,6,7 A renewal missed is a lapse, and the board’s own rules say what a lapsed licensee may and may not do; the clinic reads those rules before a clinician’s renewal date passes, not after.

Can a patient see a DC PT, OT or SLP without a referral?

District law answers this discipline by discipline, and a payer may still require a referral the law does not. For physical therapy, the licensing law defines physical therapy as the independent evaluation or treatment of human disability, injury or disease, and the physical therapy rules require a therapist to refer a patient who fails to respond to treatment within 30 days of the first visit to an appropriate health care provider; the definitions section of those rules describes treatment rendered on the prescription of or referral by a licensed physician, osteopath, dentist or podiatrist, or an advanced registered nurse.⁠^2,8,9 For occupational therapy, the licensing law defines occupational therapy as the therapeutic use of everyday life activities to enable participation at home, school, work and in the community, and requires a license to practice; the occupational therapy rules make the occupational therapist responsible for the initial evaluation and treatment plan.⁠^78,79 An occupational therapist manages all aspects of each patient’s occupational therapy care and provides the initial evaluation and treatment plan, periodic reevaluation and the documented discharge.⁠^78,79 For speech-language pathology, the licensing law defines speech-language pathology to include prevention, identification, evaluation, consultation, habilitation and rehabilitation of communication disorders, and requires a license to practice.⁠⁸⁰

The payer’s rule is separate. Medicare pays for outpatient therapy under a plan of care certified by a physician or nonphysician practitioner, and the regulation’s 2025 text lets a signed order or referral on file, with the plan delivered within 30 days of the initial evaluation, stand in for that signature on an initial plan.⁠¹⁶ DC Medicaid’s referral and prior-authorization rules are in the next section. A commercial plan’s rule is in its member contract and provider manual, and the clinic keeps a copy of each.

How does DC Medicaid pay for pediatric and adult therapy?

DC Medicaid is the District of Columbia’s Medicaid program, run by the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), and a clinic enrolls through its provider enrollment route before it bills.⁠⁸¹ For children, the federal EPSDT benefit requires the District to cover services that correct or ameliorate a condition found at a screening, whether or not the state plan covers them for adults.⁠⁸² Every child in DC Medicaid is in the HealthCheck program, the EPSDT benefit, from birth until age 21, and its treatment services include early intervention and therapies needed to correct or improve physical, developmental, oral and mental health conditions, with physical therapy and related services among the care it lists.⁠^3,4,5

The fee-for-service member handbook lists rehabilitation services, including physical, speech and occupational therapy, as a benefit for all beneficiaries, and home health services that include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology at home.⁠^10,11 For fee-for-service members, the member handbook lists services provided by a home health agency, which include physical, occupational and speech therapy at home, among the services DC Medicaid must approve in advance, through Comagine Health’s prior authorization unit.⁠^83,84 Adults 21 to 64 without dependent children, pregnant women, parents and caretaker relatives, and children under 21 select a managed care health plan through DC Healthy Families: AmeriHealth Caritas DC or MedStar Family Choice DC. CASSIP, a voluntary program for children and young adults through age 26 with complex medical needs who receive SSI or have SSI-related diagnoses, is served by Health Services for Children with Special Needs.⁠^85,86,87 The fee schedule is published by the agency, and a clinic reads the current file rather than a remembered rate.⁠⁸⁸

How does DC Medicaid want OT, PT and SLP claims coded?

For early intervention services, the EPSDT billing manual lists occupational therapy under G0152, physical therapy under G0151 and speech-language pathology under G0153, with U1 for an individual session and GP for a group, and places therapists in reimbursement category 1. On outpatient hospital claims the GN, GO and GP modifiers mark speech, occupational and physical therapy.⁠^89,90,91 The codes, modifiers and authorization forms are each plan’s and the program’s and change with them, so the clinic reads the current versions before its first claim and records the date read in the payer register.

Does DC Medicaid pay for therapy in schools?

DC Medicaid lists DC public schools and DC public charter schools among the provider types that qualify for enrollment consideration, and its telemedicine rules let the local education agency bill for allowable distant-site health services delivered at DCPS or a public charter school, and cover telemedicine by individual providers delivering Strong Start early intervention services.⁠^92,93 A school’s billing is the district’s, under its own program; an outpatient clinic’s claim for the same child is a separate matter with its own eligibility and authorization.

Does DC Medicaid cover therapy by telehealth?

DC Medicaid’s telemedicine rules list speech therapy among the services that can be delivered by telemedicine when the provider decides the standard of care can be met, pay enrolled providers at the in-person rate, and require the beneficiary’s written or verbal consent, documented by the provider.⁠^94,95,96 The telehealth section below covers the District’s own rules for the session itself.

What are the District of Columbia’s telehealth rules for therapy?

A therapist treating a patient by video needs authority to practice where the patient is located at the time of the session, and the federal telehealth site says so plainly: licensure follows the patient’s location, and a compact privilege is one route to it.⁠¹² The District’s Health Occupations Revision Act defines telehealth as synchronous or asynchronous telecommunication technology used for assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, supervision and information when the health professional and the patient are in different places. Health insurers may not deny coverage of a service because it is delivered by telehealth if it would be covered in person. For DC Medicaid, a beneficiary gives written or verbal consent to telemedicine in place of in-person care, and the provider documents it.⁠^97,98,99

A compact privilege is not a national license: it is a privilege to practice in the specific member state that issued it, under that state’s licensing law, and a state that has enacted the compact may not yet be issuing privileges, which is why the table names the commission’s current status.⁠^13,14 A health insurer may not deny coverage of a service because it is delivered by telehealth if it would be covered in person, must reimburse the provider for telehealth diagnosis, consultation or treatment, and may not charge a deductible, copayment or coinsurance above the in-person amount.⁠^100,101

Which business steps are specific to the District of Columbia?

The entity is registered with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), and the District’s professional corporation law sets how a therapy corporation renders professional services.⁠²⁰ The District’s Professional Corporations law lets a professional corporation render professional services, which include those of health professionals licensed under the Health Occupations Revision Act, only through shareholders, directors, officers, employees or agents who are themselves licensed to render that service, and an individual is personally liable only for his or her own negligent or wrongful acts or misconduct and those of people under his or her supervision and control.⁠^21,22,23,24 District tax registration is with the Office of Tax and Revenue, through the FR-500 New Business Registration on MyTax.DC.gov.⁠¹⁰² The District’s sales tax law exempts wheelchairs, crutches, canes, walkers and other equipment that assists the ill or people with disabilities or alleviates pain when sold to an individual for personal use on the written prescription or order of a licensed practitioner, and exempts orthopedic devices worn as a brace, support or correction for the body structure when they are for the owner’s or purchaser’s personal use.⁠^103,104 Every employer under the District’s workers’ compensation law secures the payment of compensation by insuring it with an authorized carrier or by proving its financial ability to pay and receiving the Mayor’s authorization to pay compensation directly.⁠¹⁰⁵ The basic business license comes from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, the same department that registers the entity. The startup-costs guide carries the budget worksheet these registrations go into.

What record and privacy rules apply in the District of Columbia?

For DC Medicaid, a provider keeps medical and fiscal records for at least ten years, or until all audits are completed if that is longer. A speech-language pathologist keeps an assistant’s supervision records for at least three years after the last adult patient is seen or until all minor patients reach the age of majority, whichever is later.⁠^17,18,19 Two federal periods sit beside it and are often confused with it: Medicare requires 7 years for documentation of orders, certifications, referrals and payment requests, and HIPAA requires 6 years for its own compliance documentation, and neither sets the retention period for the clinical chart.⁠^106,107

A physical therapist protects the patient’s privacy by not divulging confidential information without the patient’s or guardian’s consent unless the law requires it or the therapist judges it needed to protect the patient or the community. DC Medicaid’s telemedicine rules have a telemedicine provider develop a confidentiality compliance plan, which should protect participants’ privacy and ensure HIPAA compliance.⁠^108,109 A business that owns or licenses electronic personal information and discovers a breach promptly notifies each District resident whose information was included, in the most expedient time possible and without unreasonable delay, and gives written notice to the Office of the Attorney General when the breach affects 50 or more District residents.⁠^110,111,112 The District’s mandatory reporters include any individual involved in the care and treatment of patients, who reports a child known in that professional capacity to have been abused, or to be in immediate danger of abuse, or to be neglected, to the Child and Family Services Agency or the Metropolitan Police Department. A licensed health professional who has substantial cause to believe an adult needs protective services because of abuse, neglect or exploitation reports it immediately.⁠^113,114,115

Which District of Columbia rules shape a pediatric clinic?

Strong Start, the DC Early Intervention Program run by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education under IDEA Part C, provides free early intervention for eligible DC children from birth to 3 after an evaluation by an early intervention specialist. A child qualifies with a 50 percent delay in one developmental area, a 25 percent delay in two or more, or a condition known to cause delay, and services can continue from age 3 until the school year after the fourth birthday. Anyone with a concern about a child under 3 can submit a referral at eip.osse.dc.gov or by calling (202) 727-3665.⁠^25,26,27,28 A private clinic’s services run beside the early intervention program rather than inside it. The District requires health insurers to cover habilitative services, including occupational, physical and speech therapy, for children under 21 with a congenital or genetic birth defect, which includes autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy, on terms no more restrictive than for any other condition. Insurers need not pay for habilitative services delivered through early intervention or school services.⁠^{116,117,118,119}

Which District of Columbia rules shape an adult clinic?

Medicare claims from the District of Columbia go to Novitas Solutions, the Medicare Administrative Contractor for Jurisdiction L, Parts A and B (Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania), whose local coverage articles for therapy are the ones a District of Columbia clinic reads.⁠¹²⁰ DC Medicaid’s adult therapy rules are in the Medicaid section above.

Which associations and directory pages serve DC?

The District chapters are APTA District of Columbia for physical therapy, the District of Columbia Occupational Therapy Association (DCOTA) for occupational therapy and the District of Columbia Speech-Language-Hearing Association (DCSHA) for speech-language pathology.⁠^121,122,123 On DrSensory, families browse District of Columbia clinics by discipline on the occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy pages for the District, which the directory builds from the clinic addresses it holds; a clinic appears on the pages of its own address.⁠¹²⁴

Which District of Columbia cities have DrSensory city pages?

Beyond its three District of Columbia pages, the directory publishes city pages for Washington, three pages across the three disciplines, each listing the clinics whose address is in that city; a clinic appears on the city page of its address without any action of its own, and a city or discipline without a page is reached through the District page.⁠¹²⁴

How many DC PT, OT and SLP clinics does DrSensory list?

DrSensory lists 29 PT, OT and SLP clinics in the District of Columbia, on its occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy pages for the District.⁠¹²⁴

Where does each requirement come from, and what does the clinic do?

Which templates does a District of Columbia launch need?

How might two District of Columbia clinics plan a launch?

Sources

1. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
2. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.02, Definitions of health occupations (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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   “(12)(A) Practice of physical therapy" means the independent evaluation or treatment of human disability, injury, or disease through the specific scientific application of physical measures to secure the functional rehabilitation of the human body ...”
3. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). D.C. Medicaid Fee-for-Service Member Handbook (updated October 19, 2026), HealthCheck Program for Children (EPSDT). Checked October 31, 2026.
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   “If your child is in the Medicaid program, your child will be in the HealthCheck Program, also called the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) services benefit. This benefit starts right after your child is born and lasts until your child turns 21.”
4. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. EPSDT Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.3, General Program Overview. “Treatment services, including early intervention and therapies, needed to correct or improve physical, developmental, oral, and mental health conditions.” Checked October 31, 2026.
5. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. EPSDT Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.3, General Program Overview. “Other necessary healthcare, including, but not limited to: • Physician services ... • Physical therapy and related services ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
6. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
7. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
8. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6710, Lawful Practice (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective July 25, 2008). Checked October 31, 2026.
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   “6710.13 If a physical therapy patient fails to respond to treatment within thirty (30) days after being seen by a physical therapist for the first time, the physical therapist shall refer the patient to an appropriate health care provider for assessment, medical diagnosis, intervention, or referral.”
9. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6799, Definitions (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective November 1, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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   “Practice of physical therapy - the independent evaluation of human disability, injury, or disease by means of noninvasive tests of neuromuscular functions and other standard procedures of physical therapy, and the treatment of human disability, injury, or disease by therapeutic procedures, rendered on the prescription of or referral by a licensed physician, osteopath, dentist, or podiatrist, or by a licensed registered nurse certified to practice as an advanced registered nurse ...”
10. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). D.C. Medicaid Fee-for-Service Member Handbook (updated October 19, 2026), Covered services table (Rehabilitation Services). “Rehabilitation Services • Including physical, speech and occupational therapy All beneficiaries ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
11. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). D.C. Medicaid Fee-for-Service Member Handbook (updated October 19, 2026), Covered services table (Home Health Services). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “In-home health care services, including: • Nursing and home health aide care • Home health aide services provided by a home health agency • Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology and audiology services All beneficiaries ...”
12. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Getting started with licensure (Telehealth.HHS.gov, last updated February 21, 2024). Checked October 26, 2026.
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    “Health professionals must meet the licensure requirements of the state where they are located and be licensed or legally permitted to practice in the state where the patient is located”. Its companion page, Licensing across state lines (last updated April 30, 2025): “The ability to deliver health care services across state lines varies based on state regulations”; “Prior to an appointment, providers should verify patient location and obtain consent”; “Compacts allow participating health care providers to practice in participating states”.
13. Physical Therapy Compact Commission. PT Compact Map (States by Category). “Member States (38) Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
14. Physical Therapy Compact Commission. PT Compact Map (legend). “38 Member States Actively Issuing and Accepting Compact Privileges ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
15. Occupational Therapy Compact Commission. Before You Apply for an OT Compact Privilege. “States not listed below are not a member of the Occupational Therapy Compact. ... Delaware Not Yet not required DE OT Regulations ... Georgia Not Yet not required GA OT Law ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
16. Code of Federal Regulations. 42 CFR 424.24, Requirements for medical and other health services furnished by providers under Medicare Part B (eCFR, up to date as of October 22, 2026; paragraph (c), outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology services). Checked October 26, 2026.
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    “The individual needs, or needed, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology services.”; “The services were furnished while the individual was under the care of a physician, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or physician assistant.”; “The initial certification must be obtained as soon as possible after the plan is established.”; “Recertification is required at least every 90 days.”; “When it is recertified, the plan or other documentation in the patient’s record must indicate the continuing need for physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech-language pathology services.”; “the therapist has documented evidence that the plan of treatment has been delivered to the physician, NP, PA, or CNS within 30 days of completion of the initial evaluation, the certification does not need to be signed by a physician, NP, CNS, or PA who has knowledge of the case.”; “No references to an order or referral in this subsection shall be construed to require an order or referral for outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology services.”.
17. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. General Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 6.4, Record Keeping. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Providers shall retain for a minimum of ten (10) years (unless otherwise specified), medical and fiscal records that fully disclose the nature and extent of the services rendered to, but not limited to, DC Medicaid beneficiaries.”
18. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. General Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 6.6, Utilization Review. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Each provider must maintain, at their own expense, complete and accurate records documenting all relevant aspects of the services provided to Medicaid beneficiaries for a period of ten (10) years or until all audits are completed, whichever is longer.”
19. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10207, Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “After the termination of the supervisory relationship, all supervision-related records shall be maintained and preserved for a minimum of three (3) years after the last adult patient or client is seen, served, or treated or all minor patients or clients have reached the age of majority, whichever is later.”
20. District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). Do Business. “Submit a Corporate Filing/Register a Business Entity ... Apply for/Renew a Basic Business License ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
21. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 29-505, Purpose for organization; powers authorized (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(a) A professional corporation may be organized solely to render professional services through its shareholders, directors, officers, employees, or agents who are themselves licensed to render the particular service, and to render service ancillary thereto.”
22. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 29-502, Definitions (Professional Corporations) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(3) “Professional service” means any type of personal service to the public which may be lawfully rendered only pursuant to a license and which by law, custom, standards of professional conduct or practice in the District before December 10, 1971, could not be rendered by a corporation, including the services performed by certified public accountants, attorneys, architects, health professionals as defined in section 101(8) of the District of Columbia Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 ...”
23. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.01, General definitions (current through October 22, 2026). “(8) “Health professional” means a person licensed under this chapter or permitted by this chapter to practice a health occupation in the District.” Checked October 31, 2026.
24. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 29-510, Professional relationship; liabilities (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “An individual shall be personally liable and accountable only for any negligent or wrongful acts or misconduct committed by the individual, or by any individual under the individual’s supervision and control in the rendering of professional service, on behalf of a corporation organized under this chapter.”
25. District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Strong Start DC Early Intervention Program (DC EIP). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Strong Start provides free early intervention services and supports for eligible children birth to 3 and their families who are DC residents. Eligibility is based on an evaluation of the child’s developmental needs conducted by an early intervention specialist. Families who are found eligible receive early intervention services and supports at no cost, regardless of their income, insurance. legal or employment status.”
26. District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Strong Start DC Early Intervention Program (DC EIP). “If you have questions or concerns about the development of a child who is younger than the age of 3, visit eip.osse.dc.gov or call (202) 727-3665 to submit a referral.” Checked October 31, 2026.
27. District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Strong Start Child and Family Data System (SSCFDS). “The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part C, along with the District of Columbia Public Law 1-2-119 mandate that infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families receive coordinated services early enough to make a difference.” Checked October 31, 2026.
28. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. EPSDT Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.8.7.2, Early Intervention General Program Overview. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Children are automatically eligible for early intervention services when they have a condition known to result in developmental delay (like Down syndrome). They are also eligible if they demonstrate a fifty percent (50%) developmental delay in any one of five developmental areas (cognitive, physical, communication, social/emotional, and adaptive) or a twenty-five percent (25%) developmental delay in two or more of the five developmental areas. Continuations of early intervention services are available for children at three (3) years of age until the beginning of the school year following the child’s fourth birthday.”
29. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(b) The Board shall regulate the practices of audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreational therapy, and speech-language pathology and the practices by audiology assistants, occupational therapy assistants, physical therapist assistants, speech-language pathology assistants, and speech-language pathology clinical fellows.”
30. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “... as added July 19, 2024, D.C. Law 25-191, § 101(t), 71 DCR 6698.” Checked October 31, 2026.
31. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “(a) There is established a Board of Rehabilitative Therapies to consist of 11 members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.” Checked October 31, 2026.
32. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(e) The Board shall commence operation and assume regulatory authority from the Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year [after] July 19, 2024, or once the following appointments are made, whichever is earlier ...”
33. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. “The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies is made up of three professions: ... Audiology and Speech Language Pathology ... Occupational Therapy ... Physical Therapy ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
34. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.01, License, registration, certification, or approval required (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “A license issued pursuant to this chapter is required to practice ... physical therapy, ... or to practice as ... physical therapist assistant, ... in the District, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.”
35. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “DC Health is transitioning all professional licenses, certificates, and registrations to a birth‑month renewal cycle. All credentials issued on or after June 16, 2024, will expire on the last day of the holder’s birth month. This will also apply to renewing licensees beginning September 2024. ... If your birthday is in an odd year, your future renewals will occur in odd years (and the same for even years).”
36. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 4006, Term of a License, Certificate, or Registration (Chapter 40, Health Occupations: General Rules, effective March 25, 2022). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “4006.1 The term of a license, certificate, or registration issued or renewed pursuant to this subtitle shall be two (2) years or for the balance of the license period, whichever is shorter.”
37. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.10, Term and renewal of licenses, registrations, or certifications (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(a) The term of a license, registration, or certification shall not exceed 2 years; except, that the Mayor may by rule provide for a period of licensure, registration, or certification of not more than 3 years.”
38. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6701, Term of License (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective February 12, 1988). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6701.2 If the Director changes the renewal system pursuant to § 4006.3 of chapter 40 of this title, a license issued pursuant to this chapter shall expire at 12:00 midnight of the last day of the month of the birthdate of the holder of the license, or other date established by the Director.”
39. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6706, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective November 1, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6706.4 To qualify for the renewal of a license, an applicant shall have completed forty (40) hours of approved continuing education during the two (2) years’ period preceding the date the license expires, which shall include: (a) No more than twenty (20) hours of approved continuing education credits earned through internet courses; (b) Ten percent (10%) of the total required continuing education shall be in the subjects determined by the Director as public health priorities of the District, which shall be duly published every five (5) years or as deemed appropriate; and (c) Two (2) hours of LGBTQ continuing education.”
40. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6706, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective November 1, 2019). “6706.2 This section shall not apply to applicants for the first renewal of a license.” Checked October 31, 2026.
41. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6712, Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective July 25, 2008). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6712.2 A physical therapy assistant may perform the following functions under the direct supervision of a physical therapist: ... 6712.4 A physical therapy assistant or physical therapy aide may not perform the following: (a) Interpret referrals; (b) Perform evaluation procedures; (c) Initiate or adjust treatment programs; or (d) Assume responsibility for planning patient care.”
42. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6710, Lawful Practice (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective July 25, 2008). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6710.16 Before a patient is treated by a physical therapy assistant, a licensed physical therapist shall evaluate the patient and formulate initial and ongoing treatment goals and plans. 6710.17 Pursuant to § 6710.16, a licensed physical therapist shall reevaluate each patient being treated by a physical therapy assistant by the seventh (7th) visit and every seventh (7th) visit thereafter ...”
43. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6710, Lawful Practice (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective July 25, 2008). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “A physical therapist may not have more than a total of three (3) physical therapy students or physical therapy aides or physical therapy assistants or first-time applicants for a physical therapy license practicing pursuant to § 6711, under his or her direct supervision at any one time.”
44. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6799, Definitions (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective November 1, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Direct supervision - the supervision in which a physical therapist is personally present and immediately available within the treatment area to give aid, direction, and instruction when physical therapy procedures or activities are performed.”
45. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.02, Definitions of health occupations (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(B) "Practice by physical therapist assistants" means the performance of selected components of a physical therapy treatment intervention by a person who has graduated from a physical therapist assistant program accredited by an agency recognized for that purpose by the Secretary of the Department of Education or the Council of Postsecondary Accreditation and is licensed pursuant to this chapter to assist a physical therapist.”
46. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(b) The Board shall regulate the practices of audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreational therapy, and speech-language pathology and the practices by audiology assistants, occupational therapy assistants, physical therapist assistants, speech-language pathology assistants, and speech-language pathology clinical fellows.”
47. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “... as added July 19, 2024, D.C. Law 25-191, § 101(t), 71 DCR 6698.” Checked October 31, 2026.
48. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “(a) There is established a Board of Rehabilitative Therapies to consist of 11 members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.” Checked October 31, 2026.
49. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(e) The Board shall commence operation and assume regulatory authority from the Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year [after] July 19, 2024, or once the following appointments are made, whichever is earlier ...”
50. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. “The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies is made up of three professions: ... Audiology and Speech Language Pathology ... Occupational Therapy ... Physical Therapy ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
51. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.01, License, registration, certification, or approval required (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “A license issued pursuant to this chapter is required to practice ... occupational therapy, ... or to practice as ... occupational therapy assistant, ... in the District, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.”
52. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “DC Health is transitioning all professional licenses, certificates, and registrations to a birth‑month renewal cycle. All credentials issued on or after June 16, 2024, will expire on the last day of the holder’s birth month. This will also apply to renewing licensees beginning September 2024. ... If your birthday is in an odd year, your future renewals will occur in odd years (and the same for even years).”
53. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 4006, Term of a License, Certificate, or Registration (Chapter 40, Health Occupations: General Rules, effective March 25, 2022). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “4006.1 The term of a license, certificate, or registration issued or renewed pursuant to this subtitle shall be two (2) years or for the balance of the license period, whichever is shorter.”
54. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.10, Term and renewal of licenses, registrations, or certifications (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(a) The term of a license, registration, or certification shall not exceed 2 years; except, that the Mayor may by rule provide for a period of licensure, registration, or certification of not more than 3 years.”
55. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6301, Term of License (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective February 12, 1988). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6301.2 If the Director changes the renewal system pursuant to § 4006.3 of chapter 40 of this title, a license issued pursuant to this chapter shall expire at 12:00 midnight of the last day of the month of the birthdate of the holder of the license, or other date established by the Director.”
56. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6306, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective July 5, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6306.3 An applicant for license renewal shall complete a minimum of twenty-four (24) contact hours of approved continuing education in accordance with §§ 6307 and 6308 during the two (2)-year period preceding the date the license expires and ten percent (10%) of the total required continuing education shall be in the subjects determined by the Director as public health priorities of the District ...”
57. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6306, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective July 5, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6306.1 This section shall not apply to applicants for an initial license by examination, reciprocity, or endorsement, nor shall it apply to applicants for the first renewal of a license granted by examination.”
58. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.02, Definitions of health occupations (current through October 22, 2026). “(B) An individual licensed as an occupational therapy assistant pursuant to this chapter may assist in the practice of occupational therapy under the general supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.” Checked October 31, 2026.
59. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6312, Responsibilities (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective January 17, 2014). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6312.6 A supervising occupational therapist shall provide the following: (a) Direct supervision of an occupational therapy assistant prior to initiating treatment programs and before planned discharges for patients; (b) An initial and, at a minimum, bimonthly direction to the occupational therapy assistant; and (c) Documentation for verification of supervision and direction.”
60. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6399, Definitions (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective August 18, 2017). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “General supervision - Supervision in which the supervisor is available on the premises or by communication device at the time the supervisee is practicing, and can be on-site in the event of a clinical emergency within two (2) hours.”
61. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(b) The Board shall regulate the practices of audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreational therapy, and speech-language pathology and the practices by audiology assistants, occupational therapy assistants, physical therapist assistants, speech-language pathology assistants, and speech-language pathology clinical fellows.”
62. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “... as added July 19, 2024, D.C. Law 25-191, § 101(t), 71 DCR 6698.” Checked October 31, 2026.
63. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). “(a) There is established a Board of Rehabilitative Therapies to consist of 11 members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.” Checked October 31, 2026.
64. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1202.23, Board of Rehabilitative Therapies (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(e) The Board shall commence operation and assume regulatory authority from the Boards of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy one year [after] July 19, 2024, or once the following appointments are made, whichever is earlier ...”
65. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. “The Board of Rehabilitative Therapies is made up of three professions: ... Audiology and Speech Language Pathology ... Occupational Therapy ... Physical Therapy ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
66. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.01, License, registration, certification, or approval required (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “A license issued pursuant to this chapter is required to practice ... speech-language pathology, ... (2) Registration is required to practice as an audiology assistant, dance therapist, dental assistant, psychology associate, polysomnographic technician or trainee, school psychologist, speech-language pathology assistant, or speech-language pathology clinical fellow.”
67. DC Health (District of Columbia Department of Health). Board of Rehabilitative Therapies. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “DC Health is transitioning all professional licenses, certificates, and registrations to a birth‑month renewal cycle. All credentials issued on or after June 16, 2024, will expire on the last day of the holder’s birth month. This will also apply to renewing licensees beginning September 2024. ... If your birthday is in an odd year, your future renewals will occur in odd years (and the same for even years).”
68. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 4006, Term of a License, Certificate, or Registration (Chapter 40, Health Occupations: General Rules, effective March 25, 2022). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “4006.1 The term of a license, certificate, or registration issued or renewed pursuant to this subtitle shall be two (2) years or for the balance of the license period, whichever is shorter.”
69. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1205.10, Term and renewal of licenses, registrations, or certifications (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(a) The term of a license, registration, or certification shall not exceed 2 years; except, that the Mayor may by rule provide for a period of licensure, registration, or certification of not more than 3 years.”
70. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 7901, Term of License (Chapter 79, Speech-Language Pathology, effective September 4, 2009). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “If the Director changes the renewal system pursuant to § 4006.3 of chapter 40 of this title, a license issued pursuant to this chapter shall expire at 12:00 midnight on the last day of the month of the birth of the holder of the license, or other date established by the Director.”
71. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 7906, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 79, Speech-Language Pathology, effective May 3, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “7906.2 To qualify for the renewal of a license, an applicant shall have completed, during the two (2)-year period preceding the date the license expires, twenty (20) hours of approved continuing education, which shall include the following: (a) One (1) hour of ethics; (b) Two (2) hours of LGBTQ continuing education; and (c) Ten percent (10%) of the total required continuing education shall be in the subjects determined by the Director as public health priorities of the District ...”
72. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10208, Continuing Education Requirements (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective June 28, 2019). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “10208.2 To be eligible for the renewal of a registration, an applicant shall have completed, during the two (2)-year period preceding the date the registration expires, ten (10) hours of approved continuing education, which shall include the following: (a) One (1) hour of ethics; (b) Two (2) hours of LGBTQ continuing education ...”
73. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10207, Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “10207.3 The supervising speech-language pathologist shall provide direct supervision, which shall include: ... 10207.5 A supervising speech-language pathologist may supervise no more than the equivalent of two (2) full-time speech-language pathology assistants at any given time.”
74. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10207, Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “10207.2 A speech-language pathologist supervising a speech-language pathology assistant shall meet the following requirements: (a) Possess a current and valid license to practice speech-language pathology in the District of Columbia; (b) Has practiced speech-language pathology in the District or any other jurisdiction of the United States for at least two (2) years ...”
75. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10207, Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “10207.4 The direct supervision described in § 10207.3 may include the supervisor viewing and communicating with the supervisee via telecommunication technology as the supervisee performs clinical services provided that the supervisor can directly observe and give ongoing, immediate feedback.”
76. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10207, Supervision of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). “10207.9 The supervising speech-language pathologist shall co-sign all documents and therapy notes prepared by the speech-language pathology assistant.” Checked October 31, 2026.
77. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 10205, Scope of Practice (Chapter 102, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, effective August 18, 2017). “10205.1 No person may practice as a speech-language pathology assistant unless registered in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.” Checked October 31, 2026.
78. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.02, Definitions of health occupations (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(9)(A) “Practice of occupational therapy” means: (i) The therapeutic use of everyday life activities and the use of other occupational therapy techniques to engage clients who have disability- or non-disability-related needs in everyday life occupations to enable participation in activities at home, school, the workplace, or other community settings to promote habilitation, rehabilitation, and health and wellness, with or without compensation ...”
79. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6312, Responsibilities (Chapter 63, Occupational Therapy, effective January 17, 2014). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “6312.2 An occupational therapist shall be responsible for managing all aspects of the occupational therapy care of each patient. An occupational therapist shall provide the following: (a) The initial evaluation and treatment plan for each patient and all supporting documentation; (b) Periodic reevaluation for each patient and all supporting documentation; and (c) The documented discharge of the patient, including the response to the intervention at the time of discharge.”
80. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.02, Definitions of health occupations (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(B) The term practice of speech-language pathology also includes the planning, directing, supervising, and conducting of a habilitative and rehabilitative counseling program for individuals or groups of individuals who have, or are suspected of having, disorders of communication, and any service in speech-language pathology including prevention, identification, evaluation, consultation, habilitation or rehabilitation, instruction, or research.”
81. Maximus, DC Medicaid’s provider enrollment contractor (DC Provider Data Management System). DC Medicaid provider enrollment. Checked October 31, 2026.
82. Medicaid.gov (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (Medicaid benefit page). Checked October 26, 2026.
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    “The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit provides comprehensive and preventive health care services for children under age 21 who are enrolled in Medicaid.”; “It is the responsibility of states to determine medical necessity on a case-by-case basis.”.
83. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). D.C. Medicaid Fee-for-Service Member Handbook (updated October 19, 2026), Prior Authorization. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Some services, like surgery or hospital stays, require “prior authorization,” meaning that these services must be pre-approved by DC Medicaid before you get them, to ensure that the care is medically necessary and right for you. Your doctor will take care of this. Below is a list of many of the services that require a prior authorization. ... • Services provided by a Home Health Agency ...”
84. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). D.C. Medicaid Fee-for-Service Member Handbook (updated October 19, 2026), Appendix D, Medicaid Services That Require Prior Authorization and How to Get It. “Home Health Comagine Health Prior Authorization Unit ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
85. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). DC Healthy Families. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “The groups identified above will be getting information in the mail about DC Healthy Families and how to select a managed care health plan to access health care coverage. The managed care plans through DC Healthy Families are: a. AmeriHealth Caritas DC b. MedStar Family Choice DC ...”
86. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). DC Healthy Families. “MAGI-Medicaid Eligibility Groups include: ... Adults (age 21-64) without dependent children; ... Pregnant women; ... Parents/caretaker relatives; and ... Children under the age of twenty-one (21)” Checked October 31, 2026.
87. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. General Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 4.1, Program Overview. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “CASSIP is a voluntary program for children and young adults, ages zero (0) through twenty-six (26), who have complex medical needs and are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or have SSI-related diagnoses that meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) medical disability criteria. Health Services for Children with Special Needs, Inc. (HSCSN) is currently the District’s contractor serving this population.”
88. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) (DC Medicaid provider portal). Downloadable Fee Schedules. Checked October 31, 2026.
89. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. EPSDT Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.8.7.2.1, Services Provided through Early Intervention (Table 7). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “Occupational Therapy G0152 U1 (individual) G0152 GP (group) ... Physical Therapy G0151 U1 (individual RC1) G0151 U1 (individual RC2) G0151 GP (group) Speech-Language Pathology G0153 U1 (individual RC1) G0153 U1 (individual RC2) G0153 GP (group)”
90. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. EPSDT Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.8.7.2.1, Services Provided through Early Intervention (Table 7 note). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “*Reimbursement Category 1 (RC 1) providers are physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs), audiologists, certified assistive technology specialists, and certified auditory verbal therapists or educators.”
91. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Outpatient Hospital Billing Manual, version 1.7 (October 26, 2026), Section 2.3.13, Modifiers that Impact EAPG Payment. “Therapy modifiers: GN (speech and language), GO (occupational), GP (physical) Identify whether the therapy services were for speech, occupational or physical therapy services.” Checked October 31, 2026.
92. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.6, Education-Related Services Reimbursement. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “The scope of covered Medicaid telemedicine services includes individual FFS providers that deliver services under the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) through the Strong Start DC Early Intervention Program (DC EIP). ... The local education agency (LEA) shall only bill for distant site services that are allowable healthcare services to be delivered at DCPS/DCPCS and can be delivered at the standard of care via telemedicine.”
93. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. General Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 5.2, Provider Types. “The following types of providers qualify for Medicaid Program enrollment consideration: ... Schools, DC Public ... Schools, DC Public Charter ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
94. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.7, Covered Services. “Services that can be delivered via telemedicine include: ... • Speech therapy. The provider shall determine if the service can be reasonably delivered at the standard of care via telemedicine.” Checked October 31, 2026.
95. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.4, Provider Reimbursement. “DC Medicaid enrolled providers are eligible to deliver telemedicine services, using FFS reimbursement, at the same rate as in-person consultations.” Checked October 31, 2026.
96. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.2, Participant Eligibility. Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “A provider shall document the beneficiary’s consent to receive telemedicine services. Written consent includes any method that documents in writing the beneficiary’s agreement to receive the service via telemedicine, including, but not limited to, an email, text message, or signed PDF. If verbal consent is obtained, a detailed service note that describes the beneficiary’s verbal consent is required.”
97. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 3-1201.01, General definitions (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(15A) "Telehealth" means the use of synchronous or asynchronous telecommunication technology to provide access to health assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, supervision, and information where the health professional and the patient, client, or supervisee are located at different physical locations.”
98. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3862, Private reimbursement (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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    “(a) A health insurer offering a health benefits plan in the District may not deny coverage for a healthcare service on the basis that the service is provided through telehealth if the same service would be covered when delivered in person.”
99. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.2, Participant Eligibility. “• Participants must provide written or verbal consent to receive telemedicine services in lieu of in-person healthcare services, consistent with all applicable District laws.” Checked October 31, 2026.
100. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3862, Private reimbursement (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(d) A health insurer may require a deductible, copayment, or coinsurance amount for a healthcare service delivered through teleheath; provided, that the deductible, copayment, or coinsurance amount may not exceed the amount applicable to the same service when it is delivered in person.”
101. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3862, Private reimbursement (current through October 22, 2026). “(b) A health insurer shall reimburse the provider for the diagnosis, consultation, or treatment of the insured when the service is delivered through telehealth.” Checked October 31, 2026.
102. District of Columbia Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office of Tax and Revenue. New Business Registration. Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “All new businesses seeking to register with the District of Columbia must have the following information available to complete the FR-500 New Business Registration. ... Register with DLCP if required, then complete the FR 500, then go back to DLCP to obtain your business license.”
103. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 47-2005, Exemptions (Gross Sales Tax) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(B) Sales of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, quad canes, walkers, hospital beds, bedside commodes, patient lifts, urinals, respirators, oxygen tents, kits and inhalers; hemodialysis devices, transcutaneous nerve stimulators; and sales of any other device, apparatus, or equipment used to replace or substitute for any part of the human body, or used to assist the ill or people with disabilities in saving or prolonging life, or used to alleviate pain and suffering; provided, that such device, apparatus, or equipment is sold to an individual for the personal use of that individual and pursuant to written prescriptions or orders of duly licensed physicians and surgeons and general and special practitioners of the healing art ...”
104. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 47-2005, Exemptions (Gross Sales Tax) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “... orthopedic devices designed to be worn on the person of the user as a brace, support, or correction for the body structure, except orthopedic shoes and supportive devices for the foot unless they are required for the correction of a physical deformity; ... provided, that such items are for the personal use of the owner or purchaser ...”
105. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 32-1534, Security for payment of compensation (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(a) Every employer shall secure the payment of compensation under this chapter: (1) by insuring and keeping insured the payment of such compensation with any stock company or mutual company or association, or with any person or fund, while such person or fund is authorized: (A) under the laws of the United States, the District of Columbia, or of any state, to insure workers’ compensation; and (B) by the Mayor to insure payment of compensation under this chapter; or (2) by furnishing satisfactory proof to the Mayor of his financial ability to pay such compensation and receiving an authorization from the Mayor to pay such compensation directly.”
106. Code of Federal Regulations. 42 CFR 424.516, Additional provider and supplier requirements for enrolling and maintaining active enrollment status in the Medicare program (eCFR, up to date as of October 22, 2026; paragraph (f), Maintaining and providing access to documentation). Checked October 26, 2026.
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     “A provider or a supplier that furnishes covered ordered, certified, referred, or prescribed Part A or B services, items or drugs is required to—”; “Maintain documentation (as described in paragraph (f)(1)(ii) of this section) for 7 years from the date of service; and”; “Upon the request of CMS or a Medicare contractor, to provide access to that documentation”; “The documentation includes written and electronic documents (including the NPI of the physician or, when permitted, other eligible professional who ordered, certified, referred, or prescribed the Part A or B service, item, or drug) relating to written orders, certifications, referrals, prescriptions, and requests for payments for Part A or B services, items or drugs.”.
107. Code of Federal Regulations. 45 CFR 164.316, Policies and procedures and documentation requirements (eCFR, up to date as of October 22, 2026; HIPAA Security Rule; paragraph (b)). Checked October 26, 2026.
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     “Maintain the policies and procedures implemented to comply with this subpart in written (which may be electronic) form; and”; “If an action, activity or assessment is required by this subpart to be documented, maintain a written (which may be electronic) record of the action, activity, or assessment.”; “Retain the documentation required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section for 6 years from the date of its creation or the date when it last was in effect, whichever is later.”.
108. District of Columbia Office of Documents and Administrative Issuances (D.C. Municipal Regulations). 17 DCMR § 6714, Standards of Conduct (Chapter 67, Physical Therapy, effective February 12, 1988). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “6714.1 A physical therapist shall protect the patient’s right to privacy by not divulging confidential information without consent of the patient or guardian unless required by law or unless, in the judgment of the physical therapist, the information is need to protect the patient or the community.”
109. District of Columbia Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), DC Medicaid billing manual. Physicians Billing Manual, version 1.5 (October 26, 2026), Section 3.11, Confidentiality. Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “A telemedicine provider shall develop a confidentiality compliance plan in accordance with guidance from the HHS, Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The plan should incorporate appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards around data encryption (both in transit and at rest), protect the privacy of telemedicine participants, and ensure compliance with the Health Insurance, Portability, and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 ...”
110. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 28-3852, Notification of security breach (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(a) Any person or entity who conducts business in the District of Columbia, and who, in the course of such business, owns or licenses computerized or other electronic data that includes personal information, and who discovers a breach of the security of the system, shall promptly notify any District of Columbia resident whose personal information was included in the breach. The notification shall be made in the most expedient time possible and without unreasonable delay ...”
111. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 28-3852, Notification of security breach (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(b-1) In addition to giving the notification required under subsection (a) of this section, and subject to subsection (d) of this section, the person or entity required to give notice shall promptly provide written notice of the breach of the security of the system to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia if the breach affects 50 or more District residents.”
112. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 28-3852, Notification of security breach (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(d) The notification required by this section may be delayed if a law enforcement agency determines that the notification will impede a criminal investigation but shall be made as soon as possible after the law enforcement agency determines that the notification will not compromise the investigation.”
113. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 4-1321.02, Mandatory reporters (current through October 22, 2026). “(a) For the purposes of this section, the term "mandatory reporter" means any of the following: ... (9) An individual involved in the care and treatment of patients ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
114. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 4-1321.02, Mandatory reporters (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(b)(1) Notwithstanding § 14-307, mandatory reporters shall, if they know or have reasonable cause to believe that a: (A) Child they know in their professional capacity for which they have been designated as a mandatory reporter has been or is in immediate danger of being abused, as that term is defined in § 4-1301.02(1)(A), or is a neglected child, as that term is defined in § 4-1301.02(15B), make a report to the Child and Family Services Agency or the Metropolitan Police Department as described in § 4-1321.03 ...”
115. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 7-1903, Reporting requirements (Adult Protective Services) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(a)(1) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, whenever a conservator, court-appointed mental retardation advocate, guardian, health-care administrator, licensed health professional, police officer, humane officer of any agency charged with the enforcement of animal cruelty laws, bank manager, financial manager, or social worker has as a result of his or her appointment, employment, or practice substantial cause to believe that an adult is in need of protective services because of abuse, neglect, or exploitation by another, he or she shall immediately report this belief in accordance with subsection (c) of this section.”
116. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3272, Coverage, notice, applicability, and regulations (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(a) A health insurer shall: (1) Provide coverage of habilitative services for children under the age of 21 years and may do so through a managed care system; (2) Not be required to provide reimbursement for habilitative services actually delivered through early intervention or school services ...”
117. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3271, Definitions (habilitative services for children) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(3) “Habilitative services” means services, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy, for the treatment of a child with a congenital or genetic birth defect to enhance the child’s ability to function.”
118. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3271, Definitions (habilitative services for children) (current through October 22, 2026). Checked October 31, 2026.
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     “(2) “Congenital or genetic birth defect” means a defect existing at or from birth, including a hereditary defect. The term “congenital or genetic birth defect” includes: (A) Autism or an autism spectrum disorder; and (B) Cerebral palsy.”
119. Council of the District of Columbia (Code of the District of Columbia). D.C. Code § 31-3272, Coverage, notice, applicability, and regulations (current through October 22, 2026). “(b) The coverage shall not be more restrictive than coverage provided for any other illness, condition, or disorder ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
120. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Who are the MACs: A/B MAC Jurisdiction L (JL) (page last modified July 8, 2026). “Contract Awardee: Novitas Solutions, Inc., contract number 75FCMC21C0019 ... JL processes FFS Medicare Part A and Part B claims for Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania ...” Checked October 31, 2026.
121. APTA District of Columbia. APTA District of Columbia (the state association's site). Checked October 31, 2026.
122. the District of Columbia Occupational Therapy Association (DCOTA). the District of Columbia Occupational Therapy Association (DCOTA) (the state association's site). Checked October 31, 2026.
123. the District of Columbia Speech-Language-Hearing Association (DCSHA). the District of Columbia Speech-Language-Hearing Association (DCSHA) (the state association's site). Checked October 31, 2026.
124. DrSensory. Occupational therapy clinics in District of Columbia, with the physical therapy and speech therapy pages for the state (the directory's state pages, built from the addresses it holds). Checked October 31, 2026.
125. DrSensory. Clinic Directory Pricing. “Claiming your listing is free. The subscription is $349.99 a year or $29.99 a month for your first location, and $99.99 a year or $9.99 a month for each additional location, not per therapist.” Checked October 30, 2026.

Medical disclaimer. This page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is general guidance on running a therapy clinic in the District of Columbia, not legal, compliance, billing or financial advice. Rules change; the clinic confirms each with its source before acting on it.