New Mexico House Bill HB479

New Mexico 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/25

Caption

Use Of Title Of "doctor"

Impact

This legislation has significant implications for state law, as it enhances the Uniform Licensing Act by introducing more stringent guidelines for how non-physician healthcare providers present themselves to the public. This change is intended to safeguard the public by ensuring that patients are fully aware of the credentials of their healthcare practitioners, which could ultimately influence patient decisions and trust in healthcare services.

Summary

House Bill 479 establishes new regulations regarding the use of the title 'doctor' by non-physician healthcare providers in New Mexico. The bill mandates that these providers can only use titles and abbreviations that are explicitly allowed by their respective licensing statutes. It specifically prohibits them from using the term 'doctor' in any fashion without identifying their specific profession, aiming to reduce potential confusion for patients about the qualifications of their healthcare providers.

Contention

The bill may spark debate within the healthcare community, particularly amongst non-physician providers who may feel that such restrictions could limit their professional identity and public perception. Supporters of the bill argue that this measure is essential to protect patients and maintain clarity in healthcare practices, while opponents may view this as an overreach that could undermine their professional standing and ability to market their services effectively.