A licensee who has had a physical or mental disability or
illness during the license period may apply for an exemption. An exemption
provides for an extension of time or exemption from some or all of the
continuing education requirements. An applicant shall submit a completed
application form approved by the board for an exemption. The application form
is available upon request from the board office. The application requires the
signature of a licensed health care professional who can attest to the
existence of a disability or illness during the license period. If the
application is from a licensee who is the primary caregiver for a relative who
is ill or disabled and needs care from that primary caregiver, the physician
shall verify the licensee's status as the primary caregiver. A licensee who
applies for an exemption shall be notified of the decision regarding the
application. A licensee who obtains approval shall retain a copy of the
exemption to be presented to the board upon request.
(1) The board may grant an extension of time
to fulfill the continuing education requirement.
(2) The board may grant an exemption from the
continuing education requirement for any period of time not to exceed two
calendar years. If the physical or mental disability or illness for which an
extension or exemption was granted continues beyond the period initially
approved by the board, the licensee must reapply for a continuance of the
extension or exemption.
(3) The
board may, as a condition of any extension or exemption granted, require the
licensee to make up a portion of the continuing education requirement in the
manner determined by the board.
