Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5351

Introduced
2/7/25  
Refer
2/7/25  
Report Pass
6/12/25  
Engrossed
6/16/25  

Caption

Mandates cosmetic medical procedures be performed by a physician, PA, APRN, or delegated to a qualified non-physician, non-PA or non-APRN under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse.

Impact

If enacted, H5351 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for medical spas in the state. By enforcing strict supervision and licensure requirements for cosmetic procedures, the legislation aims to enhance patient safety and ensure that practitioners are adequately trained. The bill seeks to protect consumers from potential malpractice and unqualified providers by setting clear definitions and standards for the provision of these services, thus reinforcing the accountability of health professionals in the cosmetic field.

Summary

House Bill H5351, also known as the Medical Spas Safety Act, establishes specific regulations governing the performance of cosmetic medical procedures within medical spas. The bill mandates that these procedures be carried out by licensed professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Moreover, it emphasizes the requirement for supervision by a trained medical director, ensuring that all cosmetic medical procedures adhere to established safety protocols and patient care standards.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding H5351 is marked by broad support from stakeholders who view it as a crucial step in enhancing patient safety and regulatory oversight in the cosmetic medical field. Supporters argue that the bill will provide a framework for quality assurance and protect patients from unregulated practices. However, there are some concerns from industry representatives about the potential financial and operational burdens imposed on small medical spa operations, which could affect service delivery and accessibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions regarding the scope of practice for non-physician providers, particularly regarding which procedures they may perform and the level of supervision required. Some advocates believe that the regulations may be too restrictive, potentially limiting the ability of qualified practitioners to offer services efficiently. The ongoing debates highlight the balance between ensuring consumer safety and maintaining accessible healthcare services in cosmetic medicine.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2870

Provides that the performance of cosmetic medical services is the practice of medicine and surgery.

RI H8296

Provides that the performance of cosmetic medical services is the practice of medicine and surgery.

RI H5284

Physician Assistants

RI S0279

Physician Assistants

RI S2716

Establishes the primary care training sites program to provide training for physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants within the DOH.

RI H7273

Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.

RI S2401

Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.

RI H5332

Physician Assistance Licensing Compact Act

RI S0278

Physician Assistance Licensing Compact Act

RI H5877

Medical Spas Safety Act

Similar Bills

RI S0976

Mandates cosmetic medical procedures be performed by a physician, PA, APRN, or delegated to a qualified non-physician, non-PA or non-APRN under the supervision of a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse.

RI S2870

Provides that the performance of cosmetic medical services is the practice of medicine and surgery.

RI H8296

Provides that the performance of cosmetic medical services is the practice of medicine and surgery.

RI H6610

Relating To Health And Safety

RI H5877

Medical Spas Safety Act

RI S2604

Includes immediate family members and related parties to be included in the definitions applicable to the chapter and require that information for nursing facility applicants for initial licensure or change of ownership.

RI H8204

Includes immediate family members and related parties to be included in the definitions applicable to the chapter and require that information for nursing facility applicants for initial licensure or change of ownership.

RI H5083

Requires public or private golf courses to have an automated external defibrillator on the premises.