K.A.R. 100-29-18. Dry Needling; education and practice requirements. This new regulation specifies the educational requirements for a physical therapist to utilize dry needling therapy within the scope of practice of a physical therapist.  This regulation also sets forth the requirements that a course on dry needling must cover in order for it to be considered by the Board for approval.  It also contains a provision prohibiting the delegation of dry needling by a physical therapist.  

            K.A.R. 100-29-19.  Dry Needling; informed consent.  This new regulation advises physical therapists of the information required to be provided to the patient prior to the physical therapist utilizing dry needling therapy with the patient.  

            K.A.R. 100-29-20. Dry Needling; recordkeeping. This new regulation advises physical therapists that perform dry needling of the specific record keeping requirements of each dry needling session.

            K.A.R. 100-29-21. Dry Needling; board requests for documentation. This new regulation assists the agency with investigations regarding the qualifications of individual physical therapists to perform dry needling therapy. 

Costs to the State Board of Healing Arts are expected to be minimal. Costs to Physical Therapists would be determined on an individual basis.  There is no statutory or regulatory requirement that a physical therapist obtain training to utilize dry needling techniques or therapy in their practice.  However, a Physical Therapist that desires to utilize dry needling therapy in their practice would have the economic impact of the fees associated with the required training.

It is anticipated that the regulations will provide a positive economic impact on private individuals in that more Physical Therapists may have expanded practice opportunities in Kansas due to a greater scope of practice which, in turn, should improve the general public’s access to healthcare provided by these individuals.