Michigan House Bill HB4109

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/15/23

Caption

Health occupations: health professionals; attending health care professional; define. Creates new act.

Impact

If enacted, HB4109 would explicitly exclude dentists from being categorized as attending health care professionals according to the definition established in section 28 of Article I of the state constitution. This amendment may have consequences for legal and professional interactions involving dentists, potentially impacting their ability to participate in certain health care scenarios in ways that were previously permissible or recognized. The implications may extend to legal liability, insurance coverage, and professional scope, which could necessitate a reevaluation of the existing regulatory framework surrounding dental practices.

Summary

House Bill 4109 seeks to clarify the definition of 'attending health care professional' in the context of Michigan's constitution. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the term does not include dentists as defined in the Public Health Code. This change could significantly affect the interpretation of health care provision and responsibilities under the state's laws, especially in scenarios where legal obligations or protections are derived from the umbrella of attending health care professionals. The aim is to delineate the roles and responsibilities of various health care practitioners more distinctly.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding this change, particularly among dental professionals and health care advocates who might argue that excluding dentists from this definition weakens their role in patient care and health management. Opponents could voice concerns that this move diminishes the collaborative nature of health care practices, where integration between various professions, including dental care, is crucial for comprehensive patient outcomes. As such, discussions may reflect deeper issues about the recognition and integration of different health professions within a unified health care system.