This bill aims to expand the scope of practice for licensed acupuncturists in New Jersey, allowing them to provide a wider range of services to their patients. Key provisions include the authorization for licensed acupuncturists to order various diagnostic and analytical tests, such as x-rays, bioanalytical laboratory tests, and electrodiagnostic tests. Additionally, the bill permits acupuncturists to prescribe, administer, inject, compound, and dispense a variety of health-related products, including homeopathic medicines, saline solutions, and nutritional substances.

To ensure that practitioners are qualified for these expanded services, the bill outlines specific certification requirements for those previously licensed to practice acupuncture. This includes completing designated training programs in diagnostic test ordering, injection therapy, and intravenous therapy, along with maintaining continuing education credits for certification renewal. Furthermore, licensed acupuncturists certified for expanded practice must adhere to compounding requirements set forth for licensed health care professionals. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the capabilities of acupuncturists, thereby improving patient care and treatment options.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:2C-6