Bill > A04613

This bill modernizes the legal definition and scope of podiatry practice in New York, specifically expanding podiatrists' abilities to diagnose, treat, and perform surgical procedures on the foot and ankle. The bill broadens the definition of podiatric practice to include diagnosing and treating local manifestations of systemic diseases on the foot and ankle, and clarifies that wound care can extend to wounds on the ankle. The legislation establishes two levels of ankle surgery privileges for podiatrists: standard ankle surgery and advanced ankle surgery. Standard ankle surgery allows podiatrists to perform soft tissue and osseous procedures, while advanced ankle surgery permits more complex procedures like ankle fracture fixation, ankle fusion, ankle arthroscopy, and certain invasive interventions involving external fixation pins and intramedullary rods. The bill also introduces a mechanism for podiatrists to obtain limited permits to perform advanced ankle surgery, either by being board-certified or board-qualified in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery. These advanced surgical procedures must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed podiatrist with advanced ankle surgery privileges or a certified orthopedic surgeon. The changes aim to modernize podiatric practice by expanding the professional scope and creating clear pathways for surgical specialization. The bill will take effect 18 months after becoming law, allowing time for implementation and training.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4613