Relating to the requirement that an orthotist or a prosthetist be licensed as a device manufacturer if fabricating or assembling without an order from certain health care professionals.
Impact
The enactment of SB1271 will significantly affect the practices of both orthotists and prosthetists in Texas. It introduces a clear distinction between those who work under direct orders from healthcare providers and those who operate independently without such orders. The bill aims to enhance patient safety by ensuring that any custom device fabrication is conducted by professionals who meet higher licensing standards. This could improve the quality and accountability of the devices provided to patients and reduce potential complications due to poorly manufactured products.
Summary
Senate Bill 1271 introduces a new requirement for orthotists and prosthetists in Texas regarding their licensing as device manufacturers. The bill stipulates that these professionals must obtain a device manufacturer license if they fabricate or assemble orthoses or prostheses without an order from specific healthcare professionals, such as licensed physicians, chiropractors, or podiatrists. This aims to create a more regulated environment for orthotic and prosthetic services and ensure that these medical devices are created under appropriate oversight.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding SB1271 could arise from the additional regulatory burden placed on practitioners who may need to seek additional licensing to continue their work. Critics might argue that this bill could restrict access to orthotic and prosthetic care for some patients, particularly if fewer practitioners are willing or able to comply with the new licensing requirements. Proponents, on the other hand, may argue that these constraints are necessary to ensure patient safety and the integrity of care provided in this specialized field.
Identical
Relating to the requirement that an orthotist or a prosthetist be licensed as a device manufacturer if fabricating or assembling without an order from certain health care professionals.
Relating to preventative health care and public health, including prohibited immunization and face-covering requirements, private business or school closures, and the ordering and administration of immunizations by a pharmacist.
Relating to health care transparency, including advertising, identification, and notice requirements for certain health facilities and health professionals; authorizing administrative and civil penalties.
Relating to health care practitioner authority regarding certain do-not-resuscitate orders, including the use of electronic copies and photographs of out-of-hospital do-not-resuscitate orders.
Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to access to certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices used in clinical trials by patients with severe chronic diseases.