HB 5537 Summary

• Establishes the Office of Health Equity (formerly Office of Multicultural Health) within the Department of Public Health to work to eliminate health disparities among various population groups based on race, ethnicity, age, gender, socioeconomic status, and other factors.

• Creates certification requirements for nursing facility management services, including application procedures, financial responsibility standards, and disciplinary provisions for non-compliance.

• Authorizes the Commissioner of Public Health to issue safety certificates for ambulances, invalid coaches, and paramedic intercept vehicles, with inspection requirements conforming to federal regulations.

• Modifies definitions and scope of practice for emergency medical services personnel including emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and responders, and establishes requirements for medical oversight by sponsor hospitals.

• Expands the practice of natureopathy to include ordering diagnostic tests, medical devices, and performing specific clinical procedures such as venipuncture and spirometry.