The Hand Therapy Certification Commission, Inc., (HTCC) is a not-for-profit corporation established in 1989 for the purpose of sponsoring a voluntary credentialing program.

From its inception, the Board of Directors of HTCC envisioned a two-step process of Certification and Recertification. Recertification provides assurance to the public that the Certified Hand Therapist continues to meet the high standards set by HTCC. It is the personal responsibility of each Certified Hand Therapist to maintain their certification in order to demonstrate current knowledge and skills.

Continuing competency is promoted through a systematic plan of learning and professional activities. Continuing education programs, independent study, research, teaching, and promoting professional practice may be used to meet the continuing education requirements. In addition, a therapist must document continued work experience in the profession to demonstrate current practice skills.

A therapist may recertify by examination as an alternate method of demonstrating current knowledge. Because of changes in the profession, every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.

Our Mission
The mission of the Hand Therapy Certification Commission, Inc. is to support a high level of competence in hand therapy practice and to advance the specialty through a formal credentialing process.

Our Vision
The Hand Therapy Certification Commission envisions a time when every qualified therapist who treats hand patients will become a Certified Hand Therapist.

Our Purpose
The purposes of the Hand Therapy Certification program are to:

• Serve the public and hand therapy community by maintaining high standards in the practice of hand therapy.
• Enhance the quality of patient care.
• Recognize occupational therapists and physical therapists that have achieved an advanced level of professional knowledge.
• Encourage participation in continuing education and professional development.