AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 24 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO DRY NEEDLING.

More dry needling providers, with referral rules

Beginning six months after enactment, Delaware physician assistants, certified nurse practitioners, and occupational therapists can perform dry needling. This treatment uses thin needles to stimulate muscles, connective tissue, and muscle trigger points for pain and movement problems. It follows Western medical concepts, not traditional acupuncture theory. Providers must first examine and diagnose the patient and receive a written physician referral specifically for dry needling. Referrals can be sent digitally. The law makes dry needling a service occupational therapists can be paid for, but does not guarantee insurance coverage. Licensing boards must set training and practice standards for all three professions. These providers cannot advertise or present themselves as acupuncturists unless separately licensed as acupuncturists.