Section 2023.5.

(a) The board, in conjunction with the Board of Registered Nursing, and in consultation with the Physician Assistant Committee and professionals in the field, shall review issues and problems surrounding the use of laser or intense light pulse devices for elective cosmetic procedures by physicians and surgeons, nurses, and physician assistants. The review shall include, but need not be limited to, all of the following:

(1) The appropriate level of physician supervision needed.

(2) The appropriate level of training to ensure competency.

(3) Guidelines for standardized procedures and protocols that address, at a minimum, all of the following:

(A) Patient selection.

(B) Patient education, instruction, and informed consent.

(C) Use of topical agents.

(D) Procedures to be followed in the event of complications or side effects from the treatment.

(E) Procedures governing emergency and urgent care situations.

(b) On or before January 1, 2009, the board and the Board of Registered Nursing shall promulgate regulations to implement changes determined to be necessary with regard to the use of laser or intense pulse light devices for elective cosmetic procedures by physicians and surgeons, nurses, and physician assistants.

(c) On or before January 1, 2013, the board shall adopt regulations regarding the appropriate level of physician availability needed within clinics or other settings using laser or intense pulse light devices for elective cosmetic procedures. However, these regulations shall not apply to laser or intense pulse light devices approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration for over-the-counter use by a health care practitioner or by an unlicensed person on himself or herself.

(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to modify the prohibition against the unlicensed practice of medicine.

(Amended by Stats. 2011, Ch. 645, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2012.)