HF2344 Summary

• Establishes the "Minnesota Orthotist, Prosthetist, and Pedorthist Practice Act" creating licensure requirements for orthotists, prosthetists, pedorthists, orthotic/prosthetic assistants, and orthotic fitters under the Board of Podiatric Medicine effective January 1, 2018.

• Creates a seven-member Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics Advisory Council with five licensed practitioners (representing each profession), one podiatric physician, and one public member to advise the board on enforcement and licensure standards.

• Requires applicants to meet certification requirements of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics or Board of Certification/Accreditation and maintain continuing education hours according to their certifying board.

• Sets licensing fees including initial application fee up to $600, biennial renewal fees up to $600 for practitioners and up to $300 for assistants/fitters, and late renewal fees of $100 plus the renewal fee.

• Establishes grounds for disciplinary action including violations of the chapter, criminal convictions, misrepresentation, incompetence, unethical conduct, and false advertising; allows exceptions for physicians, other regulated professionals, federal employees, students, and out-of-state licensees practicing under supervision for up to six months.