Louisiana Senate Bill SCR22

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/17/14
• Refer: 3/18/14
• Report Pass: 4/2/14
• Passed: 4/7/14
• Engrossed: 4/8/14
• Refer: 4/9/14

Caption

Directs the Department of Health and Hospitals to create the Practice and Regulation of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Review Committee.

Impact

If approved, SCR22 would have significant implications for the practice of acupuncture and oriental medicine in Louisiana. By potentially creating a regulatory framework, it would ensure that practitioners meet certain standards, thereby enhancing the quality of care available to residents. The proposed review committee would not only study regulatory needs but would also make legislative recommendations, potentially paving the way for structured licensing and professional standards that could align with those of other healthcare professions.

Summary

SCR22, introduced by Senator Mills, aims to enhance the regulation of acupuncture and oriental medicine in Louisiana. The resolution directs the Department of Health and Hospitals to establish a 'Practice and Regulation of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Review Committee.' This committee is tasked with evaluating whether the practice should be regulated by an independent state board and determining the specific requirements for practitioners wishing to operate within the state. The establishment of this committee underscores the growing recognition of acupuncture and oriental medicine as viable healthcare modalities that necessitate proper oversight.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR22 appears to be generally positive among supporters who advocate for increased regulation as a pathway to improve medical practices. Proponents argue that a regulated standard would protect both practitioners and patients, ensuring safety and efficacy within the field. However, there may also be concerns regarding the implications of such regulation on practitioners, particularly among those who have been operating without formal oversight. This highlights a tension between the desire for regulation and the need to protect the existing practices of those who may feel threatened by new legislative measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SCR22 could arise around the scope and structure of the proposed review committee. While the bill seeks to unify standards for acupuncture and traditional oriental medicine, questions may emerge about who gets to shape these standards and whether they will reflect the diversity of practices within the field. Additionally, there could be discussions regarding the qualifications of committee members, as the bill includes representation from various healthcare professions, which may lead to differing viewpoints on regulation and practice standards.