Bill > H2513

This bill modifies Massachusetts law regarding the use of professional medical titles and healthcare practitioner advertising and identification. The first section updates existing regulations about who can use the term "physician" and related medical specialty titles, maintaining strict restrictions on using such terms without proper medical registration. Specifically, it prohibits individuals from using medical titles or implying medical practice without being registered by the medical board, with potential penalties including fines between $100-$1,000 and possible imprisonment up to one year. The second section introduces comprehensive transparency requirements for healthcare practitioners, mandating that advertisements and professional communications must accurately represent a practitioner's specific licensure and credentials. Healthcare providers must now wear photo identification name tags during patient encounters that clearly show their name, license type, and license expiration date, and must display their license type visibly in their office. The bill also defines key terms like "deceptive" advertising and establishes that failure to comply with these transparency requirements can be considered a violation of consumer protection laws. Exceptions are made for practitioners in non-patient care settings, and certain licensed professionals like chiropractors and physician assistants are granted specific exemptions from some provisions.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2513