Health Occupations - Licensed Athletic Trainers - Dry Needling Approval
The passage of SB711 has implications for the practice of athletic trainers in Maryland by formally integrating dry needling into their scope of practice. This bill requires trainers to complete at least 80 hours of approved educational courses, of which specific topics like safety, infection control, and the theory behind dry needling must be covered. Additionally, trainers must maintain competence through ongoing evaluations. By formalizing these procedures, SB711 establishes a framework that helps ensure the safety and efficacy of dry needling practices within the state.
Senate Bill 711, titled 'Health Occupations – Licensed Athletic Trainers – Dry Needling Approval,' seeks to authorize the State Board of Physicians to register licensed athletic trainers to perform dry needling as a specialized task. This legislative change aims to define dry needling, an intramuscular manual therapy that involves the insertion of solid needles into muscles and related tissues to facilitate rehabilitation and recovery. The bill also stipulates instructional requirements for athletic trainers who wish to perform this technique, ensuring that they have undergone a specified amount of education and practical training in its application.
The sentiment surrounding SB711 appears to be largely supportive among stakeholders within the athletic training community, which views the bill as a positive step towards enhancing the skill set of trainers and expanding treatment options for patients. The discussion highlighted an appreciation for the structured approach to clinical practices, reflecting a broader movement to recognize and regulate emerging techniques within health care fields. However, some concern was raised regarding the potential for over-regulation and whether the legislative structure could hamper the efficiency and accessibility of care provided by athletic trainers.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB711 include debates about the necessity of legislative oversight for dry needling and its classification as a specialized task. Critics argue that the requirements could create barriers for experienced practitioners seeking to implement these techniques immediately. The bill's opponents may question the balance between ensuring safety through regulation and allowing practitioners the flexibility to operate based on their professional judgment. Additionally, the requirement for specific educational content raises discussions about the right level of oversight in competency assessments, preserving the integrity and autonomy of professional practice.