This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes related to the practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine, updating definitions and practice standards. A new subdivision is added to define "Acupuncture" as a treatment technique that incorporates both modern and traditional medical methods, including the use of acupuncture needles and other biophysical methods for pain management and symptom modification. The definition of "Acupuncture and herbal medicine practice" is also revised to emphasize a primary practice that utilizes both traditional and modern methodologies, while removing references to "Oriental medical theory." Additionally, the bill modifies the scope of practice to include a broader range of techniques and therapies, such as cupping, dermal friction, and dietary counseling, while repealing the previous definition of "Oriental medicine."

The bill also makes changes to the requirements for continuing education programs, ensuring they relate to acupuncture and herbal medicine, and specifies that the advisory council for acupuncture must include licensed practitioners from various backgrounds. It updates informed consent requirements and patient record-keeping standards, emphasizing the need for comprehensive patient evaluations and documentation. Furthermore, the bill repeals a previous definition of "Oriental medicine," reflecting a shift towards a more inclusive and modern understanding of acupuncture and herbal practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 147B.01, 147B.03, 147B.05, 147B.06
1st Engrossment: 147B.01, 147B.03, 147B.05, 147B.06