Bill > S1542

This bill updates the legal definition of podiatry in Chapter 112 of Massachusetts General Laws by expanding the scope of what podiatrists can do. Specifically, the bill defines podiatry as the diagnosis and treatment of foot and lower leg conditions using various medical approaches, including medical, mechanical, electrical, and surgical methods. The bill also clarifies that for certain sections of the law (12B, 12G, and 80B), the term "physician" will include podiatrists who are registered under section 16. An important contextual note is that the bill includes an exemption for surgeons from the United States army, navy, and Public Health Service, as well as physicians registered in Massachusetts, who will not be subject to the specific sections related to podiatry (sections 13 to 18). This update provides a more comprehensive and precise definition of podiatry, recognizing the full range of medical interventions podiatrists can perform.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1542