This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning health professionals. Key changes include the replacement of terms such as "Employment of" with "Employing" and "Habitual use of" with "Habitually using," which modernizes the language used in the statutes. Additionally, new provisions are introduced, such as prohibiting the division of professional fees between health professionals unless it occurs within a bona fide employment or partnership context, and explicitly banning practices that misrepresent the practice of chiropractic, naturopathic medicine, or radiologic technology. The bill also adds new definitions of misconduct, including harassment or retaliation against patients or complainants involved in disciplinary proceedings.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language to clarify the board's authority in investigations and disciplinary actions. It specifies that the board may require licensees under investigation to undergo examinations at their own expense and allows for emergency actions if public health and safety are at risk. The bill also updates the penalties for violations, maintaining a civil penalty cap of $1,000 for each infraction. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the regulatory framework for health professionals in Arizona, ensuring higher standards of conduct and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-924, 32-1501, 32-2801, 32-1901, 36-3601, 41-1831, 36-781, 36-661, 36-2801