HB 299 Summary

• Amends Section 34-24-230 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand the definition of podiatry practice to include examination, diagnosis, and treatment of soft tissue and osseous structures of the foot, ankle, and ankle joint.

• Expands podiatric treatment scope to encompass medical, mechanical, manipulative, surgical, and electrical treatment methods for foot and ankle conditions.

• Clarifies that the human foot contains 28 bones and includes all boney structures below the ankle joint, plus the distal third of the tibia and fibula.

• Maintains existing restrictions prohibiting podiatrists from amputating the foot, performing surgery above the ankle joint, or administering anesthetics other than local anesthetics.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.