The bill amends Section 5-29-1 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-29, titled "Podiatrists," to introduce new definitions and provisions regarding certified foot care nurses (CFCNs) and certified foot care specialists (CFCS). Notably, it defines a CFCN as a registered nurse or nurse practitioner certified by the Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board, and a CFCS as a nurse practitioner certified by the American Foot Care Nurses Association. The bill also clarifies that these certified professionals may provide specific foot care services, such as routine foot and nail care, callus and corn reduction, and foot assessments, in a home setting without being classified as home nursing care providers.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the services provided by CFCNs and CFCSs do not constitute the practice of podiatry, thus allowing them to operate without a podiatry license. The Department of Health is tasked with creating rules and regulations to implement these provisions. The act will take effect upon passage, thereby expanding the scope of foot care services available to the public while ensuring that certified professionals can operate within their qualifications.

Statutes affected:
6088: 5-29-1