Bill > S2698

This bill aims to establish regulations for "acupuncture detoxification specialists" in the state of Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Defining "acupuncture detoxification" as the treatment using sterile, disposable acupuncture needles in specific locations on the ear, following the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol. 2. Allowing qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed physicians, psychologists, social workers, and nurses, who have received NADA training, to become registered as "acupuncture detoxification specialists" with the Department of Public Health. 3. Requiring acupuncture detoxification specialists to practice under the general supervision of a licensed acupuncturist, but prohibiting them from using the title "acupuncturist" or performing acupuncture outside the NADA protocol. 4. Permitting acupuncture detoxification to be performed in certain settings, such as substance abuse treatment facilities, mental health facilities, and other approved settings, but not in individual, one-on-one appointments. 5. Allowing licensed physicians and medical acupuncturists to practice acupuncture detoxification without the need for registration. The overall goal of the bill is to expand access to this type of auricular (ear) acupuncture treatment for substance abuse, mental health, and other conditions, while ensuring appropriate oversight and training for healthcare providers.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Public Health (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2698