HB22 Summary

• Amends Section 34-25A-3 of the Alabama Code to further define "orthosis" under the Prosthetics and Orthotics Act.

• Expands the definition of orthosis to explicitly include custom-fitted orthoses that require assembly or modification by a licensed person for a specific patient to achieve proper fit, comfort, and function.

• Clarifies that off-the-shelf orthotic devices are manufactured as commercially available items for general use and do not require assembly or modification for specific patients.

• Excludes from the definition of orthosis various items including prefabricated knee braces, elastic supports, arch supports, cervical collars, canes, crutches, and items typically sold in pharmacies or surgical supply facilities.

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