NY A02462

Allows injured employees compensable under workers' compensation to receive treatment from licensed or certified acupuncturists authorized by the chair of the Workers' Compensation Board.

Requires acupuncturists to file applications with an acupuncture practice committee, maintain treatment records, and submit preliminary notice within 48 hours of first treatment and complete reports within 15 days.

Establishes an acupuncture practice committee consisting of two licensed acupuncturists and one physician to recommend practitioners, determine fair fees, investigate misconduct, and make binding decisions on service value disputes.

Authorizes the chair to establish fee schedules distinguishing between licensed acupuncturists and certified acupuncturists, with fees payable only by employers, not patients.

Prohibits acupuncturists from performing independent medical examinations, collecting fees from patients, or engaging in fee splitting, and allows removal from authorization for professional misconduct or violation of fee requirements.