The bill amends Section 61-14A-4 of the New Mexico Statutes to allow physicians licensed under the Medical Practice Act to perform auricular acupuncture, provided that their practice aligns with the scope of their medical license. The existing language that required individuals to be licensed as doctors of oriental medicine to practice acupuncture is modified to include this new provision for physicians. Additionally, the bill clarifies that only licensed physicians or certified auricular detoxification specialists can practice auricular acupuncture for treating conditions such as alcoholism and substance abuse.

Furthermore, the bill updates Section 61-14A-4.1, which outlines the requirements for certification as an auricular detoxification specialist. It specifies that individuals who are not licensed physicians or certified specialists cannot practice auricular acupuncture or represent themselves as certified. The bill also establishes a framework for the certification process, including training requirements, supervision by licensed doctors of oriental medicine, and associated fees for certification and renewal. This comprehensive approach aims to regulate the practice of auricular acupuncture and ensure that practitioners meet specific standards for training and supervision.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-14A-4, 61-14A-4.1