The bill introduces a new chapter to Title 23 of the General Laws, known as the "Medical Spas Safety Act," which aims to regulate the safety of medical spas by ensuring that cosmetic medical procedures are performed by qualified and trained individuals. It defines key terms, outlines the responsibilities of medical directors, and mandates training and supervision requirements for physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses involved in cosmetic medical procedures. The bill also requires the development of written office protocols for each procedure and the maintenance of medical records in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. It specifies that only physicians may perform procedures using ablative lasers or energy devices and mandates the department to create rules for licensing medical spas by July 1, 2024. Additionally, the bill amends the definition of "healthcare facility" to include "mobile health-screening vehicles" and provides various other definitions related to healthcare services.

The bill exempts medical spas from certain requirements of chapter 15 of title 23 and clarifies the conditions under which new healthcare services or equipment would require state agency review and approval. It also includes insertions and deletions, such as the exemption of "medical spas as defined in chapter 99 of title 23" from the requirements of chapter 15, and updates definitions in the "Determination of Need for New Healthcare Equipment and New Institutional Health Services" chapter. The Legislative Council's explanation emphasizes that the act pertains to the safety of medical spas, with cosmetic medical services considered the practice of medicine and surgery, and that these services can only be performed by non-physicians if properly delegated and supervised. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5877: 23-17-2, 23-15-2