The proposed "Medical Spas Safety Act" introduces a new chapter in Title 23 of the General Laws, focusing on the regulation and safety of medical spas. It establishes definitions for key terms related to cosmetic medical procedures, including "ablative lasers," "medical director," and "delegate." The bill mandates that each medical spa appoint a qualified medical director who is responsible for overseeing procedures, ensuring quality patient care, and implementing written protocols for each cosmetic medical procedure.

The act specifies that only trained professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, and certified nurse practitioners, may perform procedures involving ablative lasers or ablative energy devices. Additionally, it requires that cosmetic medical services can only be performed by qualified licensed or certified non-physicians if these services have been delegated by a medical director, supervising physician, supervising physician assistant in collaboration with a physician, or supervising advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).

The bill also amends Section 23-17-2 to classify medical spas as healthcare facilities, subjecting them to the same licensing and regulatory requirements as other healthcare providers. Furthermore, it outlines that non-physicians, non-PAs, and non-APRN delegates may only perform cosmetic medical procedures for which they have the requisite training and that have been delegated to them by a supervising healthcare professional.

The act requires the Department of Health to promulgate rules and regulations by July 1, 2026, to implement the chapter's purpose and intent, including the licensing of medical spas. It also amends existing definitions in Chapter 23-15 to include terms related to medical spas and outlines criteria for healthcare facilities. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5351  SUB A: 23-17-2, 23-15-2
5351  SUB A as amended: 23-17-2, 23-15-2