COVID-19
Division Announcements/Info
warning The Heber Wells Building is CLOSED to the Public.
The Division is temporarily closed to walk-in customers. You can contact us by online transactions, phone, mail and/or email communications. Click here for a Directory of Email Addresses. You may contact us at (801) 530-6628. For your convenience, you may also use a Department of Commerce drop box located just inside the lobby door.
warning Fingerprinting services at the Division are temporarily suspended.
Fingerprinting, while still required for licensure, is currently suspended at the Heber M Wells Building. You may find a list of facilities currently offering fingerprint services here. You may also check with your local police department.
Please note the facility must be able to print two FD-258 fingerprint cards. You must mail both cards to the Division (Emailed fingerprint cards cannot be accepted).
warning Commerce Administrative Orders
- March 26, 2020 — DOPL Pleadings may be filed by Email or Fax
- June 29, 2020 — Requirements for Attending Public Hearings
info Temporary Suspension of "Live" CE Requirements
- See UPDATED Temporary Suspension Notice
issued 6/18/2020 by Mark Steinagel
Visit coronavirus.utah.gov to review the State of Utah's Coronavirus Response Plan
description Application Forms
Practice Exemptions During Declared Emergency
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is committed to protecting the health and safety of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak. The following information, developed in collaboration with DOPL’s licensing boards, applies for the duration of the declared emergency.
Healthcare professionals who do not hold a current Utah license may work in Utah within their scope of practice under the following temporary emergency exemptions and other existing exemptions. See Utah Code §§ 58-1-307 and 58-81-101 et. seq.
Select from the submenu for the specific exemptions.
Physicians
- For the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency, a physician licensed in good standing may provide general supervision to a medical assistant when the medical assistant is administering influenza vaccinations. The medical assistant must be adequately trained, and the physician must ensure a written protocol is in place that the medical assistant shall follow to screen vaccine candidates and to deal with any adverse events after immunization. View the full Order here
- A physician formerly licensed in Utah or in another U.S. state or territory, whose license was
unrestricted and in good standing, may apply for a volunteer health care practitioner license to
work exclusively as a volunteer at a qualified location (clinic, hospital, church, etc.). This
practitioner would work under a delegation of service agreement with an actively licensed supervising professional. All DOPL fees are waived for these applicants.
Apply for a Volunteer Health Care Practitioner license at: https://dopl.utah.gov/md/.
Please Note:
The above provisions currently exist in statute or through interstate compacts. In the coming days, DOPL may announce other temporary measures to better address any increasing demands on Utah’s healthcare system. In the meantime, we continue to encourage online applications for licensure through our website at http://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html. All professionals should be aware of reimbursement and liability concerns beyond the date of license expiration.
Nurses
- A nurse who is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) may work in Utah without the need to obtain a license, per the eNLC rules. (If the eNLC nurse decides to designate Utah as the nurse’s primary state of residence, the nurse must notify DOPL and their previous home state and obtain a Utah license.)
- Per Utah Code Subsection 58-1-307(4)(b)(ii) for the duration of the declared emergency, an LPN who is licensed in good standing may dispense as a "practitioner" in accordance with Utah Code Section 58-17b-309.7 and Utah Admin. Code R156-17b-309.7.
- A nurse formerly licensed in Utah or in another U.S. state or territory, whose license was
unrestricted and in good standing, may apply for a volunteer health care practitioner license to
work exclusively as a volunteer at a qualified location (clinic, hospital, church, etc.). The nurse
would work under a delegation of service agreement with an actively licensed supervising professional. All DOPL fees are waived for these applicants.
Apply for a Volunteer Health Care Practitioner license at: https://dopl.utah.gov/nurse/.
Manual Forms
- Temporary Registered Nurse Apprentice Application
- Certification of Academic Status of Nurse Education
- Temporary Graduate Nurse LPN/RN Application
Please Note:
The above provisions currently exist in statute or through interstate compacts. In the coming days, DOPL may announce other temporary measures to better address any increasing demands on Utah’s healthcare system. In the meantime, we continue to encourage online applications for licensure through our website at http://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html. All professionals should be aware of reimbursement and liability concerns beyond the date of license expiration.
Mental Health
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) and the Utah mental health professional licensing boards are committed to protecting the health and safety of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak. The following information applies for the duration of the declared emergency.
License Exemptions
Mental health professionals who do not hold a current Utah license may work in Utah within their scope of practice under the following temporary emergency exemptions and other existing exemptions. See Utah Code §§ 58-1-307 and 58-81-101 et. seq. Exemptions from licensure specific to mental health professions can also be found in Utah Code § 58-60-107
Formerly Licensed Healthcare Professionals
If a mental health professional’s former Utah license to practice expired or lapsed while in good standing, the professional may obtain expedited licensure in their profession by submitting a regular application for renewal or reinstatement of licensure.
To apply, visit the specific profession page on DOPL’s website at https://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html.
Mental health professionals who were formerly licensed in Utah or in another U.S. state or territory, whose license was unrestricted and in good standing, may apply for a volunteer health care practitioner license to work exclusively as a volunteer at a qualified location (clinic, hospital, church, etc.). These professionals would work under a delegation of service agreement with an actively licensed supervising professional.
All DOPL fees are waived for these applicants.To apply, visit the specific profession page on DOPL's website at: https://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html
Military Members/Spouses & Federal Agency Employees
-
A mental health professional serving in the U.S. armed forces, the U.S. Public Health Service, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, or other federal agency may practice in Utah as a part of employment with that federal agency if the individual holds a valid license to practice issued by any other state or jurisdiction recognized by the division.
No DOPL application or registration is required.
-
A military spouse who has been relocated to Utah by military orders and has an active license in good standing from another state, may practice in Utah within the scope of their license.
No DOPL application or registration is required.
Notice of Enforcement Discretion for Telehealth Remote Communications
To reduce opportunities for the transmission of COVID-19, DOPL in collaboration with the Utah mental health professional licensing boards issues the following guidance to permit Utah licensed mental health professionals to engage in telehealth remote communications with Utah patients during the COVID-19 public health emergency:
Utah telehealth requirements are in Utah Admin. Code §§ R156-1-601 and R156-1-602:https://rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r156/r156-01.htm#T39. However, during the COVID-19 public health emergency, providers may adhere to the requirements and recommendations set forth by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services:
Note: This guidance is not intended to alter the applicable standard of practice for any mental health profession. All providers shall be held to the same standards of practice, including maintaining patient confidentiality and recordkeeping, that would apply to the provision of the same services in an in-person setting.
Remote Supervision
In order to reduce opportunities for the transmission of COVID-19, supervision may be conducted via real time electronic means. When providing services remotely, licensees must protect the security of electronic, confidential data and information.
Continuing Education
Please refer to Director Steinagel’s letter regarding continuing education. https://dopl.utah.gov/docs/COVID-19_CE_signed.pdf
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Administration of Respiratory Therapy Treatments during Declared Emergency
Approved July 27, 2020
For the duration of the COVID-19 state of emergency declared by Governor Herbert, a Utah licensed physical therapist may administer certain
respiratory therapy treatments, including the non-invasive delivery of medication to non-critical patients. This exemption includes
permitting a physical therapist to administer aerosols in an institutional setting, even if a respiratory therapist is available in, or within
a 10-mile radius of, the institution. See Utah Code §58-24b-403(2). The physical therapist must be adequately trained, and
must work under the general supervision of an actively licensed respiratory care practitioner (respiratory therapist). This temporary
emergency expansion does not alter the applicable standard of practice for any profession.
View the full Order
Respiratory Therapists
Temporary Respiratory Therapy Apprentice Application Forms
- Temporary Respiratory Care Apprentice Application
- Certification of Academic Status of Respiratory Care Education
Physical Therapist Administration of Respiratory Therapy Treatments during Declared Emergency
Approved July 27, 2020
For the duration of the COVID-19 state of emergency declared by Governor Herbert, a Utah licensed physical therapist may administer certain
respiratory therapy treatments, including the non-invasive delivery of medication to non-critical patients. This exemption includes
permitting a physical therapist to administer aerosols in an institutional setting, even if a respiratory therapist is available in, or within
a 10-mile radius of, the institution. See Utah Code §58-24b-403(2). The physical therapist must be adequately trained, and
must work under the general supervision of an actively licensed respiratory care practitioner (respiratory therapist). This temporary
emergency expansion does not alter the applicable standard of practice for any profession.
View the full Order
Veterinarians
On March 24, the Utah Department of Health issued a State Public Health Order that requires that all licensed health-care professionals and facilities, including veterinarians and veterinary clinics, postpone all elective surgeries and procedures, effective March 25 through April 25, 2020. The State Veterinarian’s office, in consultation with the Utah Veterinary Medical Association, has provided guidance for veterinarians and veterinary clinics in complying with this order, while still protecting animal and public health.
Non-elective procedures are those that treat or prevent anything that imminently affects the health or life of the animal or poses an imminent threat to agriculture or the food supply. The Department of Health order asks that all elective procedures that use any type of non-reusable PPE, such as masks, gowns, gloves, and caps, be rescheduled to free up these supplies for health care workers treating COVID-19 patients.
The Department of Health has not asked veterinarians to stop all procedures, just the elective ones that use these supplies. I would like the public to know that veterinarians will still be able to provide for their animals’ critical needs, and I ask your patience as elective procedures are rescheduled. In addition, any veterinary procedures should only be done while adhering to other requests by Governor Herbert and state and local health departments for social distancing and biosecurity.
In addition, my office is advocating for veterinary clinics and the Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory to be considered essential businesses in the event that non-essential businesses are asked to close. The services provided by veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories are crucial in protecting not only animal health, but public health and the food supply.
As the effects of this pandemic on our healthcare system evolve, there may be more changes or restrictions to come. Thank you for your patience and understanding as veterinarians continue to do their part to contribute to the battle against COVID-19.
Sincerely,
Dean J Taylor, DVM
Utah State Veterinarian
Military Members/Spouses & Federal Agency Employees
- An individual serving in the U.S. armed forces, the U.S. Public Health Service, the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs, or other federal agency may practice in Utah as a part of
employment with that federal agency if the individual holds a valid license to practice issued by
any other state or jurisdiction recognized by the division.
No DOPL application or registration is required.
- A military spouse who has been relocated to Utah by military orders and has an active license in
good standing from another state, may practice in Utah within the scope of their license.
No DOPL application or registration is required.
Please Note:
The above provisions currently exist in statute or through interstate compacts. In the coming days, DOPL may announce other temporary measures to better address any increasing demands on Utah’s healthcare system. In the meantime, we continue to encourage online applications for licensure through our website at http://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html. All professionals should be aware of reimbursement and liability concerns beyond the date of license expiration.
Formerly Licensed Healthcare Professionals
- If a healthcare professional’s former Utah license to practice expired or lapsed while in good
standing, the professional may obtain expedited licensure in their profession by submitting a
regular application for renewal or reinstatement of licensure.
To apply, visit the specific profession page on DOPL’s website at https://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html.
- Many other healthcare professionals who were formerly licensed in Utah or in another U.S.
state or territory, whose license was unrestricted and in good standing, may apply for a
volunteer health care practitioner license to work exclusively as a volunteer at a qualified
location (clinic, hospital, church, etc.). These professionals would work under a delegation of
service agreement with an actively licensed supervising professional.
All DOPL fees are waived for these applicants. To apply, visit the specific profession page on DOPL's website at: https://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html
- podiatrist
- physical therapist
- recreational therapist
- occupational therapist
- nurse midwife
- mental health professional (social worker, marriage and family therapist, clinical mental health counselor, substance use disorder counselor)
- psychologist
- dentist or dental hygienist
- physician assistant
- pharmacist; or
- optometrist
Please Note:
The above provisions currently exist in statute or through interstate compacts. In the coming days, DOPL may announce other temporary measures to better address any increasing demands on Utah’s healthcare system. In the meantime, we continue to encourage online applications for licensure through our website at http://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html. All professionals should be aware of reimbursement and liability concerns beyond the date of license expiration.
Other Exemptions/Volunteers
As of March 17, 2020, DOPL has not issued any order modifying or restricting the health services that may be provided by health practitioners registered under the Department of Health’s Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Act. Under that Act, a health practitioner registered with a compliant registration system may practice in Utah to the extent authorized by the Act as if the practitioner were licensed in Utah. For more information, visit the Department of Health.
As of March 17, 2020, DOPL has not been notified of any individuals activated as members of a volunteer medical reserve corps by a local health authority per Utah Code § 26A-1-126. DOPL has not issued any exemptions or modifications for licensure of such individuals.
Please Note:
The above provisions currently exist in statute or through interstate compacts. In the coming days, DOPL may announce other temporary measures to better address any increasing demands on Utah’s healthcare system. In the meantime, we continue to encourage online applications for licensure through our website at http://dopl.utah.gov/licenses.html. All professionals should be aware of reimbursement and liability concerns beyond the date of license expiration.
Pharmacy Notices
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing in collaboration with the Utah Board of Pharmacy is committed to protecting the health and safety of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak. The following information is for the duration of the declared emergency.
Approved September 29, 2020.
Standing Order for Pharmacists to Administer COVID-19 Tests
Approved June 30, 2020. Revised July 21, 2020.
Pharmacist to Pharmacy Technician Trainee Ratio
Approved December 16, 2020.
Two pharmacy technician trainees may work under the direct supervision, at the discretion of the pharmacist-provided a licensed pharmacy technician or intern is also working during the same shift as the two pharmacy technician trainees, during the COVID-19 pandemic only.
Exception to Regulations Emergency Oral CII Prescription
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has provided guidance regarding the issuance of oral schedule II prescriptions. These exceptions shall remain in place for the duration of the Public Health Emergency (unless modified or withdrawn by DEA).
- Guidance https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/GDP/(DEA-DC-021)(DEA073)%20Oral%20CII%20for%20regular%20CII%20scirpt%20(Final)%20+Esign%20a.pdf
- Flowchart https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/GDP/(DEA-DC-023)(DEA075)Decision_Tree_(Final)_33120_2007.pdf
Controlled Substance Inventory
Approved April 30, 2020
A pharmacy may conduct a controlled substance inventory 120 days before or after their regularly scheduled inventory date in 2020 or 120 days after the end of the declared emergency.
Pharmacy Intern Supervision during the Declared Emergency
Approved April 30, 2020
Pharmacy Interns may practice under General Supervision. General Supervision is defined in Utah Admin Code R156-1-102a-Global Levels of Supervision https://rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r156/r156-01.htm#T3
Authorizing Emergency Compounding of Certain Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Products
Approved on 3/16/2020
To reduce opportunities for the transmission of COVID-19 and mitigate possible shortages, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Utah Board of Pharmacy issues the following guidance to permit the compounding and sale of certain alcohol-based hand sanitizer products by Utah-licensed pharmacies. Compounders must adhere to the requirements and recommendations set forth in the FDA’s Policy for Temporary Compounding of Certain Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Products During the Public Health Emergency. https://www.fda.gov/media/136118/download This guidance is in effect until rescinded by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
Assignment of Beyond-Use-Dates (BUD) for USP <797> Products
Approved April 30, 2020
Due to increased shortages and potential wastage of compounded medications the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Utah Board of Pharmacy issues the following guidance. The following BUDs may be assigned if compounding does not otherwise deviate from the currently official version of USP General Chapter <797> (last revised in 2008).
- For low- and medium-risk level CSPs prepared in a cleanroom suite, apply BUDs conservatively, not to exceed:
- 4 days at controlled room temperature
- 10 days in a refrigerator for medium-risk level CSPs
- 14 days in refrigerator for low-risk level CSPs
- 45 days in a solid frozen state at −25° to −10° or colder
- If a single-dose container is entered or punctured only in ISO Class 5 or cleaner air, it may be used up to:
- 12 hours after initial entry or puncture, as long as the storage requirements during that 12-hour period are maintained.
- Opened single-dose ampules must not be stored for any time period.
BLS/CPR Certification for Pharmacist
Approved 4/30/2020
DOPL is waiving BLS/CPR certification requirements for pharmacists whose BLS/CPR certifications expire between now and December 31, 2020. This waiver is permissive. Those who wish to obtain or renew their BLS/CPR certifications are free to do so, though DOPL encourages licensees to adhere to social distancing recommendations found at coronavirus.utah.gov or cdc.gov/coronavirus.
Face to Face Counseling during the declared emergency
Approved 4/30/2020
The risk of COVID-19 exposure to pharmacists and patients warrants alternative measures be taken to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19, and to ensure that pharmacists remain healthy and available to serve patients. Pharmacists may supplement traditional face-to-face consultation and interact with patients through technological means, e.g., text chat, video chat, telephone. Patients should be provided supplemental materials with the prescription on the methods available for them to speak with the pharmacist.
Reuse of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Compounding Activities
Approved on 3/16/2020
To mitigate reported shortages, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Utah Board of Pharmacy issues the following guidance to permit licensees conducting sterile compounding to reuse certain personal protective equipment (PPE). To reuse sterile compounding garb, a licensed compounding facility shall comply with all the following:
- Develop and implement policies and procedures for the appropriate reuse of PPE that will not compromise the microbial state of control in the compounding rooms.
- Train compounding staff on the policies and procedures developed for reusing PPE.
- For the reuse of masks:
- The identification of personnel is clearly stated on the mask (i.e. initialed).
- Masks are removed on the dirty side of the ante-room or outside of the perimeter line of the segregated control area (SCA) without touching the inside of the mask.
- Each mask for reuse is placed in its own small bag.
- All masks in bags must be placed in a container located near where masks would normally be donned.
- Compounding personnel must inspect the mask each time it is reused to ensure the mask provides adequate control (i.e. condition of the mask, whether it is visibly soiled, handling technique, etc.) in accordance with the facility’s policies and procedures.
- For the reuse of gowns:
- Please refer to recommendations from USP Compounding Resource for COVID-19.
- Compounding personnel must inspect the gown each time it is reused to ensure the gown provides adequate control (i.e. condition of the gown, whether it is visibly soiled, handling technique, etc.) in accordance with the facility’s policies and procedures.
IMPORTANT: The following sterile compounding garb cannot be reused:
- Shoe covers and sterile gloves
If items are unavailable, the facility should develop a risk based approach.
USP Compounding Resource for COVID-19
General Reminders for Pharmacy Personnel to Mitigate Risk of Exposure
Revised 7/30/2020
Utah Pharmacies should follow the CDC published guidance for pharmacies during the COVID-19 response. These guidelines can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/pharmacies.html.
- Please ensure your staff use appropriate social distancing and avoid close contact to reduce spread. Also remind staff to be cautious about touching medications. Disinfect counting trays and spatulas routinely. Consider implementing policies similar to food service workers where staff are required to set a timer and wash their hands at regular intervals (30 minutes to 1 hour).
- Establish a process for reducing or eliminating the amount of time older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions wait in line to pick up medications.
- Implement infection control procedures, especially for waiting areas:
- Staff should maintain a distance of 3 feet from asymptomatic patients or other staff members and at least 6 feet from those actively coughing.
- Regularly clean counters, waiting areas, and other spaces where public interaction occurs with disinfectant. It is recommended to clean at least every hour or after every 10 patients, whichever is more frequent.
- Place alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol next to the cash register or check out area so people can sanitize their hands after using common items like pens.
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently and for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover cough and sneeze with tissue and discard.
- Monitor all staff for sickness regularly. Staff should stay home if they have symptoms of a respiratory infection.
- Pharmacies should consider using alternative delivery options (mail or delivery) for patients to help maintain social distancing recommendations.
- Pharmacy staff may use alternative methods to document patient counseling to avoid close contact and reduce spread according to a local policy and procedure.
- A pharmacy may mail stable medication to patients.
- Pharmacies are encouraged to implement universal use of face coverings for employees. Pharmacy licensees (Pharmacists, Interns, Technicians, Technicians-in-Training), clerks and other store employees should wear face coverings for source control.
- The public entering a pharmacy should wear a face covering regardless of symptoms. The CDC recommends any person entering a public setting where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain wear a face covering.
- Pharmacy licensees administering and patients receiving clinical services in a pharmacy (i.e. immunizations, point-of-care testing, etc.) should wear a face covering due to the close proximity required to perform these services.
EMERGENCY REFILLS: 30 day supply. Please refer to Utah Code 58-17b-608
Contracting Notice
Prelicensure Course & Coronavirus
*** UPDATED MAY 18, 2020 ***
Starting Monday, June 8, 2020, all contractor applicants are required to provide a certificate of completion of the 25 or 30 hour prelicensure course unless they have already taken the class or are otherwise exempt. A copy of receipt of payment to a course provider will no longer satisfy the prelicensure course requirement (as previously permitted).
Prior to June 8, 2020, because of the difficulty in conducting the course at this time, unless you have already taken the course or qualify for an exemption from the course, DOPL is requiring the following as satisfaction of the 25 or 30 hour contractor prelicensure course at this time:
- You must sign up for the course for a future, undetermined date with one of the approved course providers (AGC, UHBA, or ABC). You will not actually take the course at this time.
- You must pay the provider in advance for the course.
- The course provider will give you a receipt of payment or other documentation that you signed up for the course.
- You will submit a copy of the receipt or other documentation along with your contractor application to DOPL as satisfaction of either 25 or 30 hour prelicensure course requirement.
- If you meet all of the other requirements for licensure, you will be issued a contractor’s license.
- You have until October 1, 2020 to attend the prelicensure course and provide the certificate of completion to DOPL. You will receive an email notification from the Division and from the course providers that you have until October 1, 2020 to attend the prelicensure course and provide the certificate of completion to DOPL.
- The course providers will then notify DOPL of any students that did not complete the course.
- DOPL may take disciplinary action on the applicant, including revocation of license, if the course is not completed as outlined above.
All applicants that obtained a contractor’s license by providing only a receipt of payment as satisfaction of the 25 or 30 hour prelicensure course will have until October 1, 2020 to attend the prelicensure course and provide the certificate of completion to DOPL.
BE ADVISED THAT THIS IS PROCESS IS TEMPORARY AND THAT THIS PROCESS WILL BE DISCONTINUED AFTER THE CORONAVIRUS EMERGENCY HAS ENDED.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, YOU MAY CONTACT THE CONSTRUCTION TRADES BUREAU at b4@utah.gov OR ANY OF THE PRELICENSURE COURSE PROVIDERS.
library_add_check Exam Updates
If you are scheduled for an exam or planning to schedule, please see below.
Most state and national testing agencies have taken a peremptory stance to help stay the spread of COVID 19. Testing centers have begun to reopen, some with abridged exams to reduce the amount of public exposure; others with remote-proctoring to afford a candidate the opportunity to test from the safety of their own homes. All testing locations are expected to have reduced seating capacity to adhere to social distancing recommendations. To view the COVID 19 safety protocols that each testing agency has adopted, please see their links below. Most of these innovative solutions have been adopted to bring our State and our Nation back to some semblance of normality while still complying with safety recommendations from the Utah Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control.
Professions considered "essential services" have already been extended the opportunity to begin testing, beginning on May 1. This opportunity will be extended to other occupations and professions over the course of the next month. This page is updated with new information on a daily basis. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact doplexams@utah.gov.
- Prometric
Testing is expected to resume for all client programs beginning June 1. Open testing sites include Lindon, Taylorsville and St. George. As more testing locations open the following Prometric link will update: Prometric Testing Sites. Seating is expected to be limited while adhering to CDC recommendations for social distancing. For specific information regarding this exam provider's COVID 19 plan, please visit: Prometric Corona-Virus Update - PearsonVue
Pearson Vue has opened several subset testing centers in major metropolitan areas, including Draper, Salt Lake, Bountiful and Ogden, for profession’s considered "essential services". In other professions, remote proctoring has also been added. To see which exams this option may be available for, please visit PearsonVue directly. By May 4th, Pearson Vue will have reopened all their testing centers. For specific information regarding this exam provider's COVID-19 plan, please visit: PearsonVue Corona-Virus Updates. - PSI
Effective April 2nd, PSI is no longer the exam vendor for Utah DOPL exams. If you have a DOPL exam, ARRT, NIC, ILE or ASBOG national exam already registered with PSI, please enquire about a refund immediately and reschedule your exam with Prov (see below). PSI is still administering a few of the National exams. Please review the DOPL profession page to determine if this applies to you. Limited testing expected to resume on May 1, 2020. Please check back for updates. Follow this link for more information on the COVID 19 response from PSI. - Prov
On April 2, 2020, Prov began administering exams on behalf of the Division. Prov utilizes college and university testing centers to administer the Division exams. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most testing centers will remain closed until mid-May. In the interim, Prov will be administering exams, on behalf of the Division, utilizing a remote-proctoring (at-home) testing platform known as Examroom-West. Seating will be limited and there are technological requirements. To see if you can utilize this testing method, visit this link for a System Compatibility Check: https://examroom.ai/systemtest/. If you have any questions regarding Prov, please contact them directly at: https://provexam.com. - Kryterion
As of April 29th, all Kryterion testing centers remain closed. Kryterion utilizes college testing centers to administer their exams so the closures are likely to remain in affect so long as the schools are closed. For more information on this exam vendor's response to COVID 19 please follow this link: COVID 19 Response.
ADDITIONAL TESTING INFORMATION
Exam Name | Current Status | Resume Normal Testing |
---|---|---|
Plumbers Practical | See Prov | May 16th w/ limited seating |
Electricians Practical | See Prov | May 9th w/ limited seating |
NIC National Exams | See Prov | May 11th w/ limited seating in Layton only. More locations in June |
ARRT National Exams | See Pearson Vue | Available w/ limited seating. |
ASBOG National Exams | See Prov | Next session is October 1, 2020 |
ILE National Practical Exam | See Prov | Available |
ILE IHS Theory Exams | See Kryterion | Undetermined |
NBE | See Pearson Vue (Essential Service) | Available w/ limited seating |
NCLEX and the MACE | See Pearson Vue (Essential Service) COVID-19 Impact to NCLEX Candidates |
Available with limited seating |
ASWB | See Pearson Vue | Available w/ limited seating |
FSBPT | See Prometric | Available w/ limited seating |
NBRC | See PSI | Available w/ limited seating and Live proctoring test delivery. |
PTCP | See Pearson Vue | Available w/ limited seating Online test delivery coming soon |
NBCOT | See Prometric (Essential Service) https://www.nbcot.org/News#testingresume |
Available w/ limited seating. Extended exam windows |
NASBA | See Prometic (Essential Service) | Available w/ limited seating |
EPPP | See Pearson Vue (Essential Service) | Available w/ limited seating |
ANCC | See Prometric (Essential Services | Available w/ limited seating |
NAVLE | See Prometric | Eligibility window extended to 12/31 |
Once we are able to safely resume normal testing, the website will be updated.
Suspension of Enforcement of Statutes/Rules Relating to Telehealth Services
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is committed to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak, which the World Health Organization has declared to be a pandemic and Utah Governor Gary Herbert has declared to be a state emergency. The following information applies until the date the state of emergency declared in Executive Order 2020-1 is terminated, or until otherwise modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded by Governor Herbert or by a succeeding governor.
March 25, 2020
Utah Governor Gary Herbert has issued an Executive Order allowing medical providers to offer a telehealth service that does not comply with the security and privacy standards required by Utah law, so long as the healthcare provider:
- Informs the patient the telehealth service does not comply with the security and privacy standards in Utah Code § 26-60-102(8)(b)(ii);
- provides the patient an opportunity to decline use of the telehealth service; and
- takes reasonable care to ensure security and privacy of the telehealth service.
"While we applaud health systems that have already expanded to offer telehealth services that provide the highest levels of privacy, we don’t want to stop health providers new to offering telehealth from innovating and using video conferencing programs that are readily available to them," Gov. Herbert said. "The more opportunities we can create for patients to consult with their medical providers remotely, the more we can prevent the risk of spreading COVID-19 in our clinics and healthcare centers."
View the full Executive Order here.
- The Governor’s Executive Order also applies to telehealth requirements for licensed healthcare professionals in Utah Admin. Code §§ R156-1-601 and R156-1-602: https://rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r156/r156-01.htm#T39
- For additional telehealth resources, policy updates, and toolkits, providers may visit the Utah Telehealth Network’s COVID-19 and Telehealth Resources page, at https://utn.org/covid/
Medical Malpractice Prelitigation Review Panels
April 6, 2020
Pre Litigation Administrative Order – April 6, 2020
March 26, 2020
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is committed to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak, which the World Health Organization has declared to be a pandemic and Utah Governor Gary Herbert has declared to be a state emergency. Consistent with the State of Utah Department of Commerce Administrative Order dated March 23, 2020, the following information applies for the duration of the declared emergency, and may be amended at any time in response to changed conditions.
DOPL is Accepting Prelitigation Filings
DOPL is still accepting new prelitigation case filings, and is available to answer emails. DOPL will continue to receive and process all filings in the ordinary course of business.
All pleadings, requests, notices of appearance, subpoenas, correspondence, and other documents must be filed with DOPL by EMAIL, sent to kfausett@utah.gov or to dcasper@utah.gov.
Contact Us
All correspondence, including all filed pleadings, notices of appearance, subpoenas, correspondence, and other documents, must be sent via email:
KoriAnn Fausett – Prelitigation Manager
Email: kfausett@utah.gov
Diana Casper – Prelitigation Secretary
Email: dcasper@utah.gov
We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. We will resume normal services after the emergency is resolved. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to email us.
local_pharmacy Pharmacy Notices
The Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing in collaboration with the Utah Board of Pharmacy is committed to protecting the health and safety of Utahns during the COVID-19 outbreak. The following information is for the duration of the declared emergency.
COVID-19 Emergency Licenses
Your license must be current and in good standing in your home state in order to obtain an emergency license.
Please go to the following link to apply for an emergency license. https://dopl.utah.gov/pharm/
Authorizing Emergency Compounding of Certain Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Products
Approved on 3/16/2020
To reduce opportunities for the transmission of COVID-19 and mitigate possible shortages, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Utah Board of Pharmacy issues the following guidance to permit the compounding and sale of certain alcohol-based hand sanitizer products by Utah-licensed pharmacies. Compounders must adhere to the requirements and recommendations set forth in the FDA’s Policy for Temporary Compounding of Certain Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Products During the Public Health Emergency. https://www.fda.gov/media/136118/download This guidance is in effect until rescinded by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
Reuse of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Compounding Activities
Approved on 3/16/2020
To mitigate reported shortages, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing and the Utah Board of Pharmacy issues the following guidance to permit licensees conducting sterile compounding to reuse certain personal protective equipment (PPE). To reuse sterile compounding garb, a licensed compounding facility shall comply with all the following:
- Develop and implement policies and procedures for the appropriate reuse of PPE that will not compromise the microbial state of control in the compounding rooms.
- Train compounding staff on the policies and procedures developed for reusing PPE.
- For the reuse of masks:
- The identification of personnel is clearly stated on the mask (i.e. initialed).
- Masks are removed on the dirty side of the ante-room or outside of the perimeter line of the segregated control area (SCA) without touching the inside of the mask.
- Each mask for reuse is placed in its own small paper bag with the personnel’s initials on the outside of the bag. A new bag must be used each time the mask is removed for reuse.
- All masks in bags must be placed in a container located where masks would normally be donned.
- Compounding personnel must inspect the mask each time it is reused to ensure the mask provides adequate control (i.e. condition of the mask, whether it is visibly soiled, handling technique, etc.) in accordance with the facility’s policies and procedures.
- For the reuse of gowns:
- Gowns may only be reused over the course of a single day.
- Compounding personnel must inspect the gown each time it is reused to ensure the gown provides adequate control (i.e. condition of the gown, whether it is visibly soiled, handling technique, etc.) in accordance with the facility’s policies and procedures.
IMPORTANT: The following sterile compounding garb cannot be reused:
- Shoe covers and sterile gloves
General Reminders for Pharmacy Personnel to Mitigate Risk of Exposure
- Please ensure your staff use appropriate social distancing and avoid close contact to reduce spread. Also remind staff to be cautious about touching medications. Disinfect counting trays and spatulas routinely. Consider implementing policies similar to food service workers where staff are required to set a timer and wash their hands at regular intervals (30 minutes to 1 hour).
- Establish a process for reducing or eliminating the amount of time older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions wait in line to pick up medications.
- Implement infection control procedures, especially for waiting areas:
- Staff should maintain a distance of 3 feet from asymptomatic patients or other staff members and at least 6 feet from those actively coughing.
- Regularly clean counters, waiting areas, and other spaces where public interaction occurs with disinfectant. It is recommended to clean at least every hour or after every 10 patients, whichever is more frequent.
- Place alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol next to the cash register or check out area so people can sanitize their hands after using common items like pens.
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently and for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover cough and sneeze with tissue and discard.
- Monitor all staff for sickness regularly. Staff should stay home if they have symptoms of a respiratory infection.
- Pharmacies should consider using alternative delivery options (mail or delivery) for patients to help maintain social distancing recommendations.
- Encourage people to buy cold medicine and refill prescriptions now, if possible, so they do not have to go out if they develop COVID-19.
COVID-19 Guidance for Refills
Pharmacists may provide patients with a 3-day emergency supply of medications according to Utah Code 58-17b-608 Emergency refills.
- In the interest of the patient's health, a pharmacist or pharmacy intern may, in an emergency, refill a prescription for a patient, but only if the prescribing practitioner is not available promptly to authorize the refill and only if in the professional judgment of the pharmacist or pharmacy intern the prescription should be refilled.
- Only sufficient medication as necessary in the emergency may be furnished by the pharmacist or pharmacy intern, not to exceed a three-day supply.
- The practitioner shall be contacted as soon as possible for further instructions concerning the emergency.
Pharmacist may dispense a one-time early dispensing of a Schedule II prescription, using professional judgement, and shall document the reason for early dispensing.
Electrical and Plumbing Licensure Notice
Practical Exams & COVID-19
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Due to the difficulty associated with administering the requisite practical exam, DOPL is requiring the following as satisfaction of the exam at this time:
- You must sign up for the practical exam for a future date. You will not actually take the exam at this time.
- You must pay the exam provider in advance of sitting for the exam.
- The exam provider will give you a receipt of payment or other documentation that you signed up for the exam.
- You will submit a copy of the receipt or other documentation along with your application to DOPL as temporary satisfaction of the exam requirement.
- If you meet all of the other requirements for licensure pursuant to Utah Code Ann. 58-1-303(1)(a), you will be issued the respective license.
- After the COVID-19 emergency has subsided, you will have 120 days to take the practical exam and provide the certificate of successful completion to DOPL.
- DOPL may take disciplinary action on the applicant, including revocation of license, if the exam is not completed as outlined above.
BE ADVISED THAT THIS PROCESS IS TEMPORARY AND WILL BE DISCONTINUED AFTER THE COVID-19 EMERGENCY HAS ENDED.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS YOU MAY REACH US AT: B5@utah.gov.