Wisconsin Senate Bill SB788

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Report Pass: 2/6/24
• Engrossed: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Enrolled: 2/27/24
• Chaptered: 3/26/24
• Passed: 3/26/24

Caption

Delegation of adjunctive services by chiropractors.

Impact

If enacted, SB788 would expand the scope of practice for chiropractors by allowing them to delegate specific services to trained medical assistants. According to the bill, individuals completing a training program accredited by recognized entities can partake in duties such as taking preliminary patient histories or administering physiotherapy treatments. This shifts some responsibilities, traditionally handled by chiropractors, to trained support staff, thereby potentially increasing patient throughput and accessibility to chiropractic care.

Summary

Senate Bill 788 aims to amend existing laws regarding the delegation of adjunctive services by chiropractors in Wisconsin. The bill proposes allowing licensed chiropractors the ability to delegate certain preparatory and complementary services to individuals who have been trained through accredited programs for medical assistants. This change is designed to enhance operational efficiency in chiropractic practices while maintaining proper oversight by licensed chiropractors.

Contention

Discussions and potential points of contention around SB788 may arise concerning the quality of patient care and the training of delegated personnel. Supporters of the bill argue that increased delegation will enhance efficiency and help chiropractors manage their practices more effectively. However, skeptics may raise concerns regarding the adequacy of training for medical assistants, emphasizing the importance of direct supervision by licensed chiropractors to ensure patient safety and the integrity of chiropractic treatment.