The proposed "Medical Spas Safety Act" establishes a new regulatory framework for medical spas within Title 23 of the General Laws, focusing on the safety and oversight of cosmetic medical procedures. The bill defines key terms related to these procedures, including "ablative lasers," "advanced practice registered nurse," and "medical director." It mandates that each medical spa appoint a qualified medical director who is responsible for overseeing procedures, ensuring quality patient care, and implementing written office protocols for each cosmetic medical procedure.

The act stipulates that only trained professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, and certified nurse practitioners, may perform specific procedures involving ablative lasers or ablative energy devices. Non-physicians may perform cosmetic medical procedures only if they have the requisite training and the procedures have been delegated to them by a supervising physician, supervising physician assistant in collaboration with a physician, or supervising APRN.

Additionally, the bill requires the Rhode Island Department of Health to promulgate rules and regulations by July 1, 2026, for licensing medical spas as healthcare facilities. It amends existing definitions in Chapter 23-17 to incorporate medical spas into the healthcare facility regulations, enhancing patient safety and ensuring qualified oversight. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

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