SECTIONS 2500-2501 - California Statutes

BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE

SECTION 2500-2501

2500. The boards acknowledge the significant interest of physicians
and patients alike in integrating preventative approaches and
holistic-based alternatives into the practice of medicine, including,
but not limited to, biopsychosocial techniques, nutrition, and the
use of natural supplements to enhance health and wellness. The boards
shall establish specific policies in this regard and shall review
statutes and recommend modifications of law, when appropriate, in
order to assure California consumers that the quality of medicine
practiced in this state is the most advanced and innovative it can be
both in terms of preserving the health of, as well as providing
effective diagnosis and treatment of illness for, the residents of
this state.

2501. In fulfilling their responsibilities under this article, the
boards shall , on or before July 1, 2002, establish disciplinary
policies and procedures to reflect emerging and innovative medical
practices for licensed physicians and surgeons. The boards shall
solicit the participation of interested parties in the development
and preparation of these policies and procedures and shall consult
technical advisors as necessary to fulfill the purposes of this
article. In preparing these policies and procedures, the boards shall
consult with professional medical associations and review the need
for any changes in the boards' services, procedures, and activities.
The boards shall also assess the need for:
(a) Specific standards for informed consent, if any, in order for
patients to be able to understand the risks and benefits associated
with the range of treatment options available.
(b) Standards for investigations to assure competent review in
cases involving the practice of any type of alternative medicine,
including, but not limited to, the skills and training of
investigators.