The bill seeks to repeal Chapter 6, Title 54 of the Idaho Code, which currently governs podiatrists, and replace it with the Podiatric Medical Practice Act. This new chapter establishes a clear definition of podiatry, mandates licensure for practice, and delineates the responsibilities of the State Board of Medicine, including the application and examination process for licensure, as well as the grounds for license suspension, denial, or revocation. It also defines unprofessional conduct and sets forth disciplinary procedures for licensed podiatrists, while classifying the practice of podiatry without a license as a felony. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure the State Board of Medicine includes a member licensed in podiatric medicine and nullifies certain previous administrative rules.

Moreover, the legislation addresses the membership and privileges of medical staff, ensuring that applications for podiatric membership are handled reasonably and without discrimination, with a decision required within 120 days. It clarifies that clinical privileges for podiatrists will be based on individual qualifications, while overall patient care responsibility in hospitals will rest with a licensed medical staff member. The bill also revises definitions related to health care boards, replacing the state board of podiatry with the state board of chiropractic physicians, and includes a severability clause to maintain the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part of the act is invalidated. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 54-1805, 39-1395, 54-4401