Chapter 4762 | Acupuncturists And Oriental Medicine Practitioners

Section 4762.01 | Acupuncturists definitions.

• Effective: March 22, 2013
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 251 - 129th General Assembly

As used in this chapter:

(A) "Acupuncture" means a form of health care performed by the insertion and removal of specialized needles, with or without the use of supplemental techniques, to specific areas of the human body.

(B) "Chiropractor" means an individual licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code to engage in the practice of chiropractic.

(C) "General nonmedical nutritional information" means information on any of the following:

(1) Principles of good nutrition and food preparation;

(2) Foods to be included in the normal daily diet;

(3) Essential nutrients needed by the human body and recommended amounts of those nutrients;

(4) Foods and supplements that are good sources of essential nutrients;

(5) The actions of nutrients on the human body and the effects of nutrient deficiency and nutrient excess.

(D) "Herbal therapy" means the use of foods, herbs, vitamins, minerals, organ extracts, and homeopathy.

(E) "Homeopathy" means a noninvasive system of natural and alternative medicine that seeks to stimulate the human body's ability to heal itself through the use of small doses of highly diluted substances prepared from animal, vegetable, or mineral sources.

(F) "Moxibustion" means the use of an herbal heat source on one or more acupuncture points.

(G) "Oriental medicine" means a form of health care in which acupuncture is performed with or without the use of herbal therapy.

(H) "Physician" means an individual authorized under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery, osteopathic medicine and surgery, or podiatric medicine and surgery.

(I) "Supplemental techniques" means the use of general nonmedical nutritional information, traditional and modern oriental therapeutics, heat therapy, moxibustion, acupressure and other forms of Chinese massage, and educational information regarding lifestyle modifications.

Section 4762.011 | Oriental medicine practitioners exempt.

• Effective: April 12, 2021
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 442 - 133rd General Assembly

On and after the effective date of this section, this chapter no longer applies to oriental medicine practitioners.

Section 4762.02 | License to practice.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) Except as provided in division (B) or (C) of this section, no person shall engage in the practice of acupuncture unless the person holds a valid license to practice as an acupuncturist issued by the state medical board under this chapter.

(B) Division (A) of this section does not apply to the following:

(1) A physician;

(2) A person who performs acupuncture as part of a training program in acupuncture, but only if both of the following conditions are met:

(a) The training program is operated by an educational institution that holds an effective certificate of authorization issued by the chancellor of higher education under section 1713.02 of the Revised Code or a school that holds an effective certificate of registration issued by the state board of career colleges and schools under section 3332.05 of the Revised Code.

(b) The person performs the acupuncture under the general supervision of an acupuncturist who holds a license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under this chapter.

(3) A chiropractor who holds a certificate to practice acupuncture issued by the state chiropractic board under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code.

(C)(1) A person who holds a valid license to practice as an acupuncturist issued by the state medical board under this chapter is permitted to engage in the practice of herbal therapy if the person has obtained designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as either a diplomate of chinese herbology or a diplomate of oriental medicine, or if the person holds an equivalent certification or credential as determined by the state medical board.

(2) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a nonlicensed person from selling or utilizing herbal therapy, so long as that person does not represent the person as licensed to practice herbal therapy.

(3) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent or restrict any person who is licensed by this state from practicing herbal therapy in a manner that is included in the scope of practice established by the license held.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 4:50 PM

Section 4762.03 | Application for license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist.

• Effective: December 29, 2023
• Latest Legislation: Senate Bill 131 - 134th General Assembly

(A) Except as provided in division (D) of this section, an individual seeking a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist shall file with the state medical board a written application on a form prescribed and supplied by the board.

(B) Except as provided in division (D) of this section, to be eligible for the license, an applicant shall meet all of the following conditions, as applicable:

(1) The applicant shall submit evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant is at least eighteen years of age.

(2) In the case of an applicant seeking a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner, the applicant shall submit evidence satisfactory to the board of both of the following:

(a) That the applicant holds a current and active designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as either a diplomate in oriental medicine or diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology;

(b) That the applicant has successfully completed, in the two-year period immediately preceding application for the license to practice, one course approved by the commission on federal food and drug administration dispensary and compounding guidelines and procedures.

(3) In the case of an applicant seeking a license to practice as an acupuncturist, the applicant shall submit evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant holds a current and active designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as a diplomate in acupuncture.

(4) The applicant shall demonstrate to the board proficiency in spoken English by satisfying one of the following requirements:

(a) Passing the examination described in section 4731.142 of the Revised Code;

(b) Submitting evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant was required to demonstrate proficiency in spoken English as a condition of obtaining designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as a diplomate in oriental medicine, diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology, or diplomate in acupuncture;

(c) Submitting evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant, in seeking a designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as a diplomate of oriental medicine, diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology, or diplomate of acupuncture, has successfully completed in English the examination required for such a designation by the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine;

(d) In the case of an applicant seeking a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner, submitting evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has previously held a license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under section 4762.04 of the Revised Code.

(5) The applicant shall submit to the board any other information the board requires.

(6) The applicant shall pay to the board a fee of one hundred dollars, no part of which may be returned to the applicant.

(C) The board shall review all applications received under this section. The board shall determine whether an applicant meets the requirements to receive a license not later than sixty days after receiving a complete application.

(D) The board shall issue a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist in accordance with Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code to an applicant if either of the following applies:

(1) The applicant holds a license in another state.

(2) The applicant has satisfactory work experience, a government certification, or a private certification as described in that chapter as an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist in a state that does not issue that license.

Last updated December 29, 2023 at 5:47 AM

Section 4762.031 | License applicant to comply with RC Chapter 4776.

• Effective: October 9, 2021
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 263 - 133rd General Assembly

In addition to any other eligibility requirement set forth in this chapter, each applicant for a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist shall comply with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 9, 2021 at 4:55 AM

Section 4762.04 | Issuing license to practice.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

If the state medical board determines under section 4762.03 of the Revised Code that an applicant meets the requirements for a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist, the secretary of the board shall register the applicant as an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist, as appropriate, and issue to the applicant the appropriate license to practice. The license shall be valid for a two-year period unless revoked or suspended, shall expire on the date that is two years after the date of issuance, and may be renewed for additional two-year periods in accordance with section 4762.06 of the Revised Code.

Section 4762.05 | Replacement license.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

Upon application by the holder of a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist, the state medical board shall issue a duplicate license to replace one that is missing or damaged, to reflect a name change, or for any other reasonable cause. The fee for a duplicate license is thirty-five dollars.

Section 4762.06 | Renewal of license.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) A person seeking to renew a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist shall, on or before the license's expiration date, apply to the state medical board for renewal. The board shall provide renewal notices to license holders at least one month prior to the expiration date.

Applications shall be submitted to the board in a manner prescribed by the board. Each application shall be accompanied by a biennial renewal fee of one hundred dollars.

The applicant shall report any criminal offense that constitutes grounds for refusing to issue a license under section 4762.13 of the Revised Code to which the applicant has pleaded guilty, of which the applicant has been found guilty, or for which the applicant has been found eligible for intervention in lieu of conviction, since last signing an application for a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist.

(B)(1) To be eligible for renewal of a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner, an applicant shall certify to the board both of the following, as applicable:

(a) That the applicant has maintained a current and active designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as either a diplomate in oriental medicine or diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology;

(b) That the applicant has successfully completed one six-hour course in herb and drug interaction approved by the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine in the four years immediately preceding the expiration date of the applicant's current and active designation from the commission as a diplomate in oriental medicine or diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology.

(2) To be eligible for renewal of a license to practice as an acupuncturist, an applicant shall certify to the board that the acupuncturist has maintained a current and active designation from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine as a diplomate in acupuncture.

(C) If an applicant submits a complete renewal application and qualifies for renewal pursuant to division (B) of this section, the board shall issue to the applicant a renewed license to practice.

(D) A license to practice that is not renewed on or before its expiration date is automatically suspended on its expiration date.

If a license has been suspended pursuant to this division for two years or less, the board shall reinstate the license upon an applicant's submission of a renewal application, the biennial renewal fee, and the applicable monetary penalty. The penalty for reinstatement is twenty-five dollars.

If a license has been suspended pursuant to this division for more than two years, it may be restored. Subject to section 4762.061 of the Revised Code, the board may restore the license upon an applicant's submission of a restoration application, the biennial renewal fee, and the applicable monetary penalty and compliance with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code. The board shall not restore a license unless the board, in its discretion, decides that the results of the criminal records check do not make the applicant ineligible for a certificate issued pursuant to section 4762.04 of the Revised Code. The penalty for restoration is fifty dollars.

Section 4762.061 | Prerequisites to resumption of practice.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) This section applies to all of the following:

(1) An applicant seeking restoration of a license issued under this chapter that has been in a suspended or inactive state for any cause for more than two years;

(2) An applicant seeking issuance of a license pursuant to this chapter who for more than two years has not been engaged in the practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture as either of the following:

(a) An active practitioner;

(b) A participant in a training program as described in section 4762.02 of the Revised Code.

(3) An applicant seeking to reactivate a license to practice as an acupuncturist placed on retired status.

(B) Before issuing a license to an applicant subject to this section, or before restoring a license to good standing or reactivating a license placed on retired status for an applicant subject to this section, the state medical board may impose terms and conditions including any one or more of the following:

(1) Requiring the applicant to pass an oral or written examination, or both, to determine the applicant's present fitness to resume practice;

(2) Requiring the applicant to obtain additional training and to pass an examination upon completion of such training;

(3) Requiring an assessment of the applicant's physical skills for purposes of determining whether the applicant's coordination, fine motor skills, and dexterity are sufficient for performing evaluations and procedures in a manner that meets the minimal standards of care;

(4) Requiring an assessment of the applicant's skills in recognizing and understanding diseases and conditions;

(5) Requiring the applicant to undergo a comprehensive physical examination, which may include an assessment of physical abilities, evaluation of sensory capabilities, or screening for the presence of neurological disorders;

(6) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the applicant.

The board shall consider the moral background and the activities of the applicant during the period of suspension, inactivity, or retirement. The board shall not issue, restore, or reactivate a license under this section unless the applicant complies with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 18, 2023 at 10:22 AM

Section 4762.062 | Retired status.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) An individual who holds a current, valid license issued under this chapter to practice as an acupuncturist and who retires voluntarily from practice may request that the state medical board place the individual's license on retired status.

(B) An individual seeking to have the individual's license placed on retired status shall file with the board an application in the form and manner prescribed by the board. The application shall be submitted before the end of a biennial renewal period and include all of the following:

(1) The applicant's full name, license number, mailing address, and electronic mail address;

(2) An attestation that the information included in the application is accurate and truthful and that the applicant meets the following qualifications:

(a) That the applicant holds a current, valid license issued under this chapter;

(b) That the applicant has retired voluntarily from practice as an acupuncturist;

(c) That the applicant does not have any criminal charges pending against the applicant;

(d) That the applicant is not the subject of discipline by, or an investigation pending with, a regulatory agency of this state, another state, or the United States;

(e) That the applicant does not have any complaints pending with the board;

(f) That the applicant is not, at the time of application, subject to the board's hearing, disciplinary, or compliance processes under the terms of a citation, notice of opportunity for hearing, board order, or consent agreement.

(3) A fee in an amount equal to the sum of the biennial renewal fee and restoration penalty described in section 4762.06 of the Revised Code.

The board shall not consider an application for retired status complete until the board receives the fee described in this division. On receipt of a fee, the board shall deposit the fee in accordance with section 4731.24 of the Revised Code.

(C) If the board determines that an applicant meets the requirements of division (B) of this section, the board shall place the applicant's license on retired status. The license remains on retired status for the life of the license holder, unless suspended, revoked, or reactivated, and does not require renewal.

(D) During the period in which a license is on retired status, all of the following apply:

(1) The license holder is prohibited from practicing as an acupuncturist under any circumstance.

(2) The license holder is prohibited from using the license to obtain a license to practice as an acupuncturist in another state, whether by endorsement or reciprocity or through a licensure compact.

(3) The license holder may use a title authorized for the holder's license as described in section 4762.08 of the Revised Code, but only if "retired" also is included in the title.

(E) If a license has been placed on retired status pursuant to this section, it may be reactivated. Subject to section 4762.061 of the Revised Code, the board may reactivate a license placed on retired status if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

(1) The individual seeking to reactivate the license applies to the board in the form and manner prescribed by the board.

(2) The applicant complies with sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code.

(3) The applicant pays a reactivation fee in an amount equal to the sum of the biennial renewal fee and restoration penalty described in section 4762.06 of the Revised Code.

The board shall not consider an application to reactivate a license complete until the board receives the fee described in this division. On receipt of a fee, the board shall deposit the fee in accordance with section 4731.24 of the Revised Code.

(F) The board shall reactivate a license placed on retired status if the conditions of division (E) of this section have been satisfied and the board, in its discretion, determines that the results of the criminal records check conducted pursuant to sections 4776.01 to 4776.04 of the Revised Code do not make the applicant ineligible for active status.

(G) The board may take disciplinary action against an applicant who is seeking to place a license on retired status or to reactivate the license if the applicant commits fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for or securing the retired status or reactivation.

The board also may take disciplinary action against the holder of a license placed on retired status if the holder practices under the license, uses the license to obtain licensure as an acupuncturist in another state, or uses a title that does not reflect the holder's retired status.

In taking disciplinary action under this section, the board may impose on the applicant or holder any sanction described in section 4762.13 of the Revised Code, but shall do so in accordance with the procedures described in that section.

(H) The board may adopt rules to implement and enforce this section. The rules shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 31, 2023 at 4:43 PM

Section 4762.08 | Authorized titles, initials and abbreviations or equivalent.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) A person who holds a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner issued under this chapter may use the following titles, initials, or abbreviations, or the equivalent of such titles, initials, or abbreviations, to identify the person as an oriental medicine practitioner: "Oriental Medicine Practitioner," "Licensed Oriental Medicine Practitioner," "L.O.M.," "Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)," "Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)," "National Board Certified in Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)," "Acupuncturist," "Licensed Acupuncturist," "L.Ac. and L.C.H.," "Diplomate of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology (NCCAOM)," "Dipl. Ac. and Dipl. C.H. (NCCAOM)," or "National Board Certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology (NCCAOM)." The person shall not use other titles, initials, or abbreviations in conjunction with the person's practice of oriental medicine, including the title "doctor."

(B) A person who holds a license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under this chapter may use the following titles, initials, or abbreviations, or the equivalent of such titles, initials, or abbreviations, to identify the person as an acupuncturist: "Acupuncturist," "Licensed Acupuncturist," "L.Ac.," "Diplomate in Acupuncture (NCCAOM)," "Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)," or "National Board Certified in Acupuncture (NCCAOM)." The person shall not use other titles, initials, or abbreviations in conjunction with the person's practice of acupuncture, including the title "doctor."

Section 4762.09 | Display of license and notice of regulation.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

An individual who holds a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under this chapter shall conspicuously display at the individual's primary place of business both of the following:

(A) The individual's license, as evidence that the individual is authorized to practice in this state;

(B) A notice specifying that the practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture, as applicable, under the license is regulated by the state medical board and the address and telephone number of the board's office.

Section 4762.10 | Supervisory period; treatment instructions for herbal therapy.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) Both of the following apply to an acupuncturist's practice in addition to the applicable requirements of divisions (B) and (C) of this section:

(1) Before treating a patient for a particular condition, an acupuncturist shall confirm whether the patient has undergone within the past six months a diagnostic examination that was related to the condition for which the patient is seeking acupuncture and was performed by a physician or chiropractor acting within the physician's or chiropractor's scope of practice. Confirmation that the diagnostic examination was performed may be made by obtaining from the patient a signed form stating that the patient has undergone the examination.

(2) If the patient does not provide the signed form specified in division (A)(1) of this section or an acupuncturist otherwise determines that the patient has not undergone the diagnostic examination specified in that division, the practitioner or acupuncturist shall provide to the patient a written recommendation to undergo a diagnostic examination by a physician or chiropractor.

(B) In an individual's practice of acupuncture pursuant to a license to practice issued under this chapter, all of the following apply:

(1) Prior to treating a patient, the individual shall advise the patient that acupuncture is not a substitute for conventional medical diagnosis and treatment.

(2) On initially meeting a patient in person, the individual shall provide in writing the individual's name, business address, and business telephone number, and information on acupuncture including the techniques that are used.

(3) While treating a patient, the individual shall not make a diagnosis. If a patient's condition is not improving or a patient requires emergency medical treatment, the individual shall consult promptly with a physician.

(4) The individual shall maintain records for each patient treated. The records shall be confidential and shall be retained for not less than three years following termination of treatment. The individual shall include in a patient's records any written referral or prescription for acupuncture received for a patient being treated.

(C) In a licensed acupuncturist's practice of acupuncture by using herbal therapy in the treatment of a patient, all of the following apply:

(1) The licensed acupuncturist practicing herbal therapy shall provide to the patient counseling and treatment instructions. The treatment instructions shall do all of the following:

(a) Explain the need for herbal therapy;

(b) Instruct the patient how to take the herbal therapy;

(c) Explain possible contraindications to the herbal therapy and provide sources of care in case of an adverse reaction;

(d) Instruct the patient to inform the patient's other health care providers, including the patient's pharmacist, of the herbal therapy that has been provided to the patient.

(2) The licensed acupuncturist practicing herbal therapy shall document all of the following in the patient's record:

(a) The type, amount, and strength of herbal therapy recommended for the patient's use;

(b) The counseling and treatment instructions provided to the patient under division (C)(1) of this section;

(c) Any adverse reaction reported by the patient in conjunction with the use of herbal therapy.

(3) The licensed acupuncturist practicing herbal therapy shall report to the state medical board any adverse reactions reported by the patient under division (C)(2)(c) of this section.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 4:51 PM

Section 4762.13 | Revocation or suspension of license.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) The state medical board, by an affirmative vote of not fewer than six members, may refuse to grant a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist to, or may revoke the license held by, an individual found by the board to have committed fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in applying for or securing the license.

(B) The board, by an affirmative vote of not fewer than six members, shall, except as provided in division (C) of this section, and to the extent permitted by law, limit, revoke, or suspend an individual's license to practice, refuse to issue a license to an applicant, refuse to renew a license, refuse to reinstate a license, or reprimand or place on probation the holder of a license for any of the following reasons:

(1) Permitting the holder's name or license to be used by another person;

(2) Failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter, Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code, or any rules adopted by the board;

(3) Violating or attempting to violate, directly or indirectly, or assisting in or abetting the violation of, or conspiring to violate, any provision of this chapter, Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code, or the rules adopted by the board;

(4) A departure from, or failure to conform to, minimal standards of care of similar practitioners under the same or similar circumstances whether or not actual injury to the patient is established;

(5) Inability to practice according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care by reason of mental illness or physical illness, including physical deterioration that adversely affects cognitive, motor, or perceptive skills;

(6) Impairment of ability to practice according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care because of substance use disorder or excessive use or abuse of drugs, alcohol, or other substances that may impair ability to practice;

(7) Willfully betraying a professional confidence;

(8) Making a false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement in soliciting or advertising for patients or in securing or attempting to secure a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist.

As used in this division, "false, fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading statement" means a statement that includes a misrepresentation of fact, is likely to mislead or deceive because of a failure to disclose material facts, is intended or is likely to create false or unjustified expectations of favorable results, or includes representations or implications that in reasonable probability will cause an ordinarily prudent person to misunderstand or be deceived.

(9) Representing, with the purpose of obtaining compensation or other advantage personally or for any other person, that an incurable disease or injury, or other incurable condition, can be permanently cured;

(10) The obtaining of, or attempting to obtain, money or a thing of value by fraudulent misrepresentations in the course of practice;

(11) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a felony;

(12) Commission of an act that constitutes a felony in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(13) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a misdemeanor committed in the course of practice;

(14) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for, a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude;

(15) Commission of an act in the course of practice that constitutes a misdemeanor in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(16) Commission of an act involving moral turpitude that constitutes a misdemeanor in this state, regardless of the jurisdiction in which the act was committed;

(17) A plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for violating any state or federal law regulating the possession, distribution, or use of any drug, including trafficking in drugs;

(18) Any of the following actions taken by the state agency responsible for regulating the practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture in another jurisdiction, for any reason other than the nonpayment of fees: the limitation, revocation, or suspension of an individual's license to practice; acceptance of an individual's license surrender; denial of a license; refusal to renew or reinstate a license; imposition of probation; or issuance of an order of censure or other reprimand;

(19) Violation of the conditions placed by the board on a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist;

(20) Failure to use universal blood and body fluid precautions established by rules adopted under section 4731.051 of the Revised Code;

(21) Failure to cooperate in an investigation conducted by the board under section 4762.14 of the Revised Code, including failure to comply with a subpoena or order issued by the board or failure to answer truthfully a question presented by the board at a deposition or in written interrogatories, except that failure to cooperate with an investigation shall not constitute grounds for discipline under this section if a court of competent jurisdiction has issued an order that either quashes a subpoena or permits the individual to withhold the testimony or evidence in issue;

(22) Failure to comply with the standards of the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine regarding professional ethics, commitment to patients, commitment to the profession, and commitment to the public;

(23) Failure to have adequate professional liability insurance coverage in accordance with section 4762.22 of the Revised Code;

(24) Failure to maintain a current and active designation as a diplomate in oriental medicine, diplomate of acupuncture and Chinese herbology, or diplomate in acupuncture, as applicable, from the national certification commission for acupuncture and oriental medicine, including revocation by the commission of the individual's designation, failure by the individual to meet the commission's requirements for redesignation, or failure to notify the board that the appropriate designation has not been maintained.

(C) The board shall not refuse to issue a certificate to an applicant because of a plea of guilty to, a judicial finding of guilt of, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for an offense unless the refusal is in accordance with section 9.79 of the Revised Code.

(D) Disciplinary actions taken by the board under divisions (A) and (B) of this section shall be taken pursuant to an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, except that in lieu of an adjudication, the board may enter into a consent agreement with an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist or applicant to resolve an allegation of a violation of this chapter or any rule adopted under it. A consent agreement, when ratified by an affirmative vote of not fewer than six members of the board, shall constitute the findings and order of the board with respect to the matter addressed in the agreement. If the board refuses to ratify a consent agreement, the admissions and findings contained in the consent agreement shall be of no force or effect.

(E) For purposes of divisions (B)(12), (15), and (16) of this section, the commission of the act may be established by a finding by the board, pursuant to an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, that the applicant or license holder committed the act in question. The board shall have no jurisdiction under these divisions in cases where the trial court renders a final judgment in the license holder's favor and that judgment is based upon an adjudication on the merits. The board shall have jurisdiction under these divisions in cases where the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds.

(F) The sealing or expungement of conviction records by any court shall have no effect upon a prior board order entered under the provisions of this section or upon the board's jurisdiction to take action under the provisions of this section if, based upon a plea of guilty, a judicial finding of guilt, or a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction, the board issued a notice of opportunity for a hearing or entered into a consent agreement prior to the court's order to seal or expunge the records. The board shall not be required to seal, destroy, redact, or otherwise modify its records to reflect the court's sealing or expungement of conviction records.

(G) For purposes of this division, any individual who holds a license to practice issued under this chapter, or applies for a license to practice, shall be deemed to have given consent to submit to a mental or physical examination when directed to do so in writing by the board and to have waived all objections to the admissibility of testimony or examination reports that constitute a privileged communication.

(1) In enforcing division (B)(5) of this section, the board, upon a showing of a possible violation, shall refer any individual who holds, or has applied for, a license under this chapter to the monitoring organization that conducts the confidential monitoring program established under section 4731.25 of the Revised Code. The board also may compel the individual to submit to a mental examination, physical examination, including an HIV test, or both a mental and physical examination. The expense of the examination is the responsibility of the individual compelled to be examined. Failure to submit to a mental or physical examination or consent to an HIV test ordered by the board constitutes an admission of the allegations against the individual unless the failure is due to circumstances beyond the individual's control, and a default and final order may be entered without the taking of testimony or presentation of evidence. If the board finds an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist unable to practice because of the reasons set forth in division (B)(5) of this section, the board shall require the individual to submit to care, counseling, or treatment by physicians approved or designated by the board, as a condition for an initial, continued, reinstated, or renewed license to practice. An individual affected by this division shall be afforded an opportunity to demonstrate to the board the ability to resume practicing in compliance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care.

(2) For purposes of division (B)(6) of this section, if the board has reason to believe that any individual who holds a license to practice issued under this chapter or any applicant for a license suffers such impairment, the board shall refer the individual to the monitoring organization that conducts the confidential monitoring program established under section 4731.25 of the Revised Code. The board also may compel the individual to submit to a mental or physical examination, or both. The expense of the examination is the responsibility of the individual compelled to be examined. Any mental or physical examination required under this division shall be undertaken by a treatment provider or physician qualified to conduct such examination and approved under section 4731.251 of the Revised Code.

Failure to submit to a mental or physical examination ordered by the board constitutes an admission of the allegations against the individual unless the failure is due to circumstances beyond the individual's control, and a default and final order may be entered without the taking of testimony or presentation of evidence. If the board determines that the individual's ability to practice is impaired, the board shall suspend the individual's license or deny the individual's application and shall require the individual, as a condition for an initial, continued, reinstated, or renewed license, to submit to treatment.

Before being eligible to apply for reinstatement of a license suspended under this division, the oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist shall demonstrate to the board the ability to resume practice in compliance with acceptable and prevailing standards of care. The demonstration shall include the following:

(a) Certification from a treatment provider approved under section 4731.251 of the Revised Code that the individual has successfully completed any required inpatient treatment;

(b) Evidence of continuing full compliance with an aftercare contract or consent agreement;

(c) Two written reports indicating that the individual's ability to practice has been assessed and that the individual has been found capable of practicing according to acceptable and prevailing standards of care. The reports shall be made by individuals or providers approved by the board for making such assessments and shall describe the basis for their determination.

The board may reinstate a license suspended under this division after such demonstration and after the individual has entered into a written consent agreement.

When the impaired individual resumes practice, the board shall require continued monitoring of the individual. The monitoring shall include monitoring of compliance with the written consent agreement entered into before reinstatement or with conditions imposed by board order after a hearing, and, upon termination of the consent agreement, submission to the board for at least two years of annual written progress reports made under penalty of falsification stating whether the individual has maintained sobriety.

(H) If the secretary and supervising member determine both of the following, they may recommend that the board suspend an individual's license to practice without a prior hearing:

(1) That there is clear and convincing evidence that an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist has violated division (B) of this section;

(2) That the individual's continued practice presents a danger of immediate and serious harm to the public.

Written allegations shall be prepared for consideration by the board. The board, upon review of the allegations and by an affirmative vote of not fewer than six of its members, excluding the secretary and supervising member, may suspend a license without a prior hearing. A telephone conference call may be utilized for reviewing the allegations and taking the vote on the summary suspension.

The board shall serve a written order of suspension in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The order shall not be subject to suspension by the court during pendency of any appeal filed under section 119.12 of the Revised Code. If the oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist requests an adjudicatory hearing by the board, the date set for the hearing shall be within fifteen days, but not earlier than seven days, after the hearing is requested, unless otherwise agreed to by both the board and the license holder.

A summary suspension imposed under this division shall remain in effect, unless reversed on appeal, until a final adjudicative order issued by the board pursuant to this section and Chapter 119. of the Revised Code becomes effective. The board shall issue its final adjudicative order within sixty days after completion of its hearing. Failure to issue the order within sixty days shall result in dissolution of the summary suspension order, but shall not invalidate any subsequent, final adjudicative order.

(I) If the board takes action under division (B)(11), (13), or (14) of this section, and the judicial finding of guilt, guilty plea, or judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction is overturned on appeal, upon exhaustion of the criminal appeal, a petition for reconsideration of the order may be filed with the board along with appropriate court documents. Upon receipt of a petition and supporting court documents, the board shall reinstate the license. The board may then hold an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to determine whether the individual committed the act in question. Notice of opportunity for hearing shall be given in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. If the board finds, pursuant to an adjudication held under this division, that the individual committed the act, or if no hearing is requested, it may order any of the sanctions specified in division (B) of this section.

(J) The license to practice of an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist and the practitioner's or acupuncturist's practice in this state are automatically suspended as of the date the practitioner or acupuncturist pleads guilty to, is found by a judge or jury to be guilty of, or is subject to a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction in this state or treatment or intervention in lieu of conviction in another jurisdiction for any of the following criminal offenses in this state or a substantially equivalent criminal offense in another jurisdiction: aggravated murder, murder, voluntary manslaughter, felonious assault, kidnapping, rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, aggravated arson, aggravated robbery, or aggravated burglary. Continued practice after the suspension shall be considered practicing without a license.

The board shall serve the individual subject to the suspension in accordance with sections 119.05 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. If an individual whose license is suspended under this division fails to make a timely request for an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, the board shall enter a final order permanently revoking the individual's license.

(K) In any instance in which the board is required by Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to give notice of opportunity for hearing and the individual subject to the notice does not timely request a hearing in accordance with section 119.07 of the Revised Code, the board is not required to hold a hearing, but may adopt, by an affirmative vote of not fewer than six of its members, a final order that contains the board's findings. In the final order, the board may order any of the sanctions identified under division (A) or (B) of this section.

(L) Any action taken by the board under division (B) of this section resulting in a suspension shall be accompanied by a written statement of the conditions under which the license may be reinstated. The board shall adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code governing conditions to be imposed for reinstatement. Reinstatement of a license suspended pursuant to division (B) of this section requires an affirmative vote of not fewer than six members of the board.

(M) When the board refuses to grant or issue a license to an applicant, revokes an individual's license, refuses to renew an individual's license, or refuses to reinstate an individual's license, the board may specify that its action is permanent. An individual subject to a permanent action taken by the board is forever thereafter ineligible to hold a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist and the board shall not accept an application for reinstatement of the license or for issuance of a new license.

(N) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Revised Code, all of the following apply:

(1) The surrender of a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under this chapter is not effective unless or until accepted by the board. Reinstatement of a license surrendered to the board requires an affirmative vote of not fewer than six members of the board.

(2) An application made under this chapter for a license may not be withdrawn without approval of the board.

(3) Failure by an individual to renew a license in accordance with section 4762.06 of the Revised Code does not remove or limit the board's jurisdiction to take disciplinary action under this section against the individual.

(4) The placement of an individual's license on retired status, as described in section 4762.062 of the Revised Code, does not remove or limit the board's jurisdiction to take any disciplinary action against the individual with regard to the license as it existed before being placed on retired status.

Last updated August 18, 2023 at 10:23 AM

Section 4762.131 | Effect of child support default on license.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

On receipt of a notice pursuant to section 3123.43 of the Revised Code, the state medical board shall comply with sections 3123.41 to 3123.50 of the Revised Code and any applicable rules adopted under section 3123.63 of the Revised Code with respect to a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist issued pursuant to this chapter.

Section 4762.132 | Mental illness or incompetence of license holder.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

If the state medical board has reason to believe that any person who has been granted under this chapter a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist is mentally ill or mentally incompetent, it may file in the probate court of the county in which the person has a legal residence an affidavit in the form prescribed in section 5122.11 of the Revised Code and signed by the board secretary or a member of the board secretary's staff, whereupon the same proceedings shall be had as provided in Chapter 5122. of the Revised Code. The attorney general may represent the board in any proceeding commenced under this section.

If any person who has been granted a license is adjudged by a probate court to be mentally ill or mentally incompetent, the person's license shall be automatically suspended until the person has filed with the state medical board a certified copy of an adjudication by a probate court of the person's subsequent restoration to competency or has submitted to the board proof, satisfactory to the board, that the person has been discharged as having a restoration to competency in the manner and form provided in section 5122.38 of the Revised Code. The judge of the probate court shall forthwith notify the state medical board of an adjudication of mental illness or mental incompetence, and shall note any suspension of a license in the margin of the court's record of such license.

Section 4762.133 | Violation by oriental medicine practitioners or acupuncturists; civil penalties.

• Effective: September 29, 2015
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 64 - 131st General Assembly

(A)(1) If an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist violates any section of this chapter or any rule adopted under this chapter, the state medical board may, pursuant to an adjudication under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code and an affirmative vote of not fewer than six of its members, impose a civil penalty. The amount of the civil penalty shall be determined by the board in accordance with the guidelines adopted under division (A)(2) of this section. The civil penalty may be in addition to any other action the board may take under section 4762.13 of the Revised Code.

(2) The board shall adopt and may amend guidelines regarding the amounts of civil penalties to be imposed under this section. Adoption or amendment of the guidelines requires the approval of not fewer than six board members.

Under the guidelines, no civil penalty amount shall exceed twenty thousand dollars.

(B) Amounts received from payment of civil penalties imposed under this section shall be deposited by the board in accordance with section 4731.24 of the Revised Code. Amounts received from payment of civil penalties imposed for violations of division (B)(6) of section 4762.13 of the Revised Code shall be used by the board solely for investigations, enforcement, and compliance monitoring.

Section 4762.14 | Investigations of violations.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) The state medical board shall investigate evidence that appears to show that any person has violated this chapter or the rules adopted under it. Any person may report to the board in a signed writing any information the person has that appears to show a violation of any provision of this chapter or the rules adopted under it. In the absence of bad faith, a person who reports such information or testifies before the board in an adjudication conducted under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code shall not be liable for civil damages as a result of reporting the information or providing testimony. Each complaint or allegation of a violation received by the board shall be assigned a case number and be recorded by the board.

(B) Investigations of alleged violations of this chapter or rules adopted under it shall be supervised by the supervising member elected by the board in accordance with section 4731.02 of the Revised Code and by the secretary as provided in section 4762.17 of the Revised Code. The board's president may designate another member of the board to supervise the investigation in place of the supervising member. A member of the board who supervises the investigation of a case shall not participate in further adjudication of the case.

(C) In investigating a possible violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under it, the board may administer oaths, order the taking of depositions, issue subpoenas, and compel the attendance of witnesses and production of books, accounts, papers, records, documents, and testimony, except that a subpoena for patient record information shall not be issued without consultation with the attorney general's office and approval of the secretary of the board. Before issuance of a subpoena for patient record information, the secretary shall determine whether there is probable cause to believe that the complaint filed alleges a violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under it and that the records sought are relevant to the alleged violation and material to the investigation. The subpoena may apply only to records that cover a reasonable period of time surrounding the alleged violation.

On failure to comply with any subpoena issued by the board and after reasonable notice to the person being subpoenaed, the board may move for an order compelling the production of persons or records pursuant to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

A subpoena issued by the board may be served by a sheriff, the sheriff's deputy, or a board employee designated by the board. Service of a subpoena issued by the board may be made by delivering a copy of the subpoena to the person named therein, reading it to the person, or leaving it at the person's usual place of residence. When the person being served is an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist, service of the subpoena may be made by certified mail, restricted delivery, return receipt requested, and the subpoena shall be deemed served on the date delivery is made or the date the person refuses to accept delivery.

A sheriff's deputy who serves a subpoena shall receive the same fees as a sheriff. Each witness who appears before the board in obedience to a subpoena shall receive the fees and mileage provided for under section 119.094 of the Revised Code.

(D) All hearings and investigations of the board shall be considered civil actions for the purposes of section 2305.252 of the Revised Code.

(E) Information received by the board pursuant to an investigation is confidential and not subject to discovery in any civil action.

The board shall conduct all investigations and proceedings in a manner that protects the confidentiality of patients and persons who file complaints with the board. The board shall not make public the names or any other identifying information about patients or complainants unless proper consent is given.

The board may share any information it receives pursuant to an investigation, including patient records and patient record information, with law enforcement agencies, other licensing boards, and other governmental agencies that are prosecuting, adjudicating, or investigating alleged violations of statutes or administrative rules. An agency or board that receives the information shall comply with the same requirements regarding confidentiality as those with which the state medical board must comply, notwithstanding any conflicting provision of the Revised Code or procedure of the agency or board that applies when it is dealing with other information in its possession. In a judicial proceeding, the information may be admitted into evidence only in accordance with the Rules of Evidence, but the court shall require that appropriate measures are taken to ensure that confidentiality is maintained with respect to any part of the information that contains names or other identifying information about patients or complainants whose confidentiality was protected by the state medical board when the information was in the board's possession. Measures to ensure confidentiality that may be taken by the court include sealing its records or deleting specific information from its records.

(F) The state medical board shall develop requirements for and provide appropriate initial training and continuing education for investigators employed by the board to carry out its duties under this chapter. The training and continuing education may include enrollment in courses operated or approved by the Ohio peace officer training commission that the board considers appropriate under conditions set forth in section 109.79 of the Revised Code.

(G) On a quarterly basis, the board shall prepare a report that documents the disposition of all cases during the preceding three months. The report shall contain the following information for each case with which the board has completed its activities:

(1) The case number assigned to the complaint or alleged violation;

(2) The type of license, if any, held by the individual against whom the complaint is directed;

(3) A description of the allegations contained in the complaint;

(4) The disposition of the case.

The report shall state how many cases are still pending, and shall be prepared in a manner that protects the identity of each person involved in each case. The report is a public record for purposes of section 149.43 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 4:51 PM

Section 4762.15 | Prosecutor to notify board of convictions.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) As used in this section, "prosecutor" has the same meaning as in section 2935.01 of the Revised Code.

(B) Whenever any person holding a valid license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or valid license to practice as an acupuncturist issued pursuant to this chapter pleads guilty to, is subject to a judicial finding of guilt of, or is subject to a judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for a violation of Chapter 2907., 2925., or 3719. of the Revised Code or of any substantively comparable ordinance of a municipal corporation in connection with the person's practice, the prosecutor in the case, on forms prescribed and provided by the state medical board, shall promptly notify the board of the conviction. Within thirty days of receipt of that information, the board shall initiate action in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to determine whether to suspend or revoke the license under section 4762.13 of the Revised Code.

(C) The prosecutor in any case against any person holding a valid license issued pursuant to this chapter, on forms prescribed and provided by the state medical board, shall notify the board of any of the following:

(1) A plea of guilty to, a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, or judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for a felony, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a felony charge;

(2) A plea of guilty to, a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, or judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for a misdemeanor committed in the course of practice, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a charge of a misdemeanor, if the alleged act was committed in the course of practice;

(3) A plea of guilty to, a finding of guilt by a jury or court of, or judicial finding of eligibility for intervention in lieu of conviction for a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, or a case in which the trial court issues an order of dismissal upon technical or procedural grounds of a charge of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.

The report shall include the name and address of the license holder, the nature of the offense for which the action was taken, and the certified court documents recording the action.

Section 4762.16 | Health care facilities to notify board of disciplinary actions.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

(A) Within sixty days after the imposition of any formal disciplinary action taken by any health care facility, including a hospital, health care facility operated by a health insuring corporation, ambulatory surgical center, or similar facility, against any individual holding a valid license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or valid license to practice as an acupuncturist, the chief administrator or executive officer of the facility shall report to the state medical board the name of the individual, the action taken by the facility, and a summary of the underlying facts leading to the action taken. Upon request, the board shall be provided certified copies of the patient records that were the basis for the facility's action. Prior to release to the board, the summary shall be approved by the peer review committee that reviewed the case or by the governing board of the facility.

The filing of a report with the board or decision not to file a report, investigation by the board, or any disciplinary action taken by the board, does not preclude a health care facility from taking disciplinary action against an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist.

In the absence of fraud or bad faith, no individual or entity that provides patient records to the board shall be liable in damages to any person as a result of providing the records.

(B)(1) Except as provided in division (B)(2) of this section, an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist, professional association or society of oriental medicine practitioners or acupuncturists, physician, or professional association or society of physicians that believes a violation of any provision of this chapter, Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code, or rule of the board has occurred shall report to the board the information upon which the belief is based.

(2) An oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist, professional association or society of oriental medicine practitioners or acupuncturists, physician, or professional association or society of physicians that believes a violation of division (B)(5) or (6) of section 4762.13 of the Revised Code has occurred shall report the information upon which the belief is based to the monitoring organization conducting the confidential monitoring program established under section 4731.25 of the Revised Code. If any such report is made to the board, it shall be referred to the monitoring organization unless the board is aware that the individual who is the subject of the report does not meet the program eligibility requirements of section 4731.252 of the Revised Code.

(C) Any professional association or society composed primarily of oriental medicine practitioners or acupuncturists that suspends or revokes an individual's membership for violations of professional ethics, or for reasons of professional incompetence or professional malpractice, within sixty days after a final decision, shall report to the board, on forms prescribed and provided by the board, the name of the individual, the action taken by the professional organization, and a summary of the underlying facts leading to the action taken.

The filing of a report with the board or decision not to file a report, investigation by the board, or any disciplinary action taken by the board, does not preclude a professional organization from taking disciplinary action against an individual.

(D) Any insurer providing professional liability insurance to any person holding a valid license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or valid license to practice as an acupuncturist or any other entity that seeks to indemnify the professional liability of an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist shall notify the board within thirty days after the final disposition of any written claim for damages where such disposition results in a payment exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars. The notice shall contain the following information:

(1) The name and address of the person submitting the notification;

(2) The name and address of the insured who is the subject of the claim;

(3) The name of the person filing the written claim;

(4) The date of final disposition;

(5) If applicable, the identity of the court in which the final disposition of the claim took place.

(E) The board may investigate possible violations of this chapter or the rules adopted under it that are brought to its attention as a result of the reporting requirements of this section, except that the board shall conduct an investigation if a possible violation involves repeated malpractice. As used in this division, "repeated malpractice" means three or more claims for malpractice within the previous five-year period, each resulting in a judgment or settlement in excess of twenty-five thousand dollars in favor of the claimant, and each involving negligent conduct by the oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist.

(F) All summaries, reports, and records received and maintained by the board pursuant to this section shall be held in confidence and shall not be subject to discovery or introduction in evidence in any federal or state civil action involving an oriental medicine practitioner, acupuncturist, supervising physician, or health care facility arising out of matters that are the subject of the reporting required by this section. The board may use the information obtained only as the basis for an investigation, as evidence in a disciplinary hearing against an oriental medicine practitioner, acupuncturist, or supervising physician, or in any subsequent trial or appeal of a board action or order.

The board may disclose the summaries and reports it receives under this section only to health care facility committees within or outside this state that are involved in credentialing or recredentialing an oriental medicine practitioner, acupuncturist, or supervising physician or reviewing their privilege to practice within a particular facility. The board shall indicate whether or not the information has been verified. Information transmitted by the board shall be subject to the same confidentiality provisions as when maintained by the board.

(G) Except for reports filed by an individual pursuant to division (B) of this section, the board shall send a copy of any reports or summaries it receives pursuant to this section to the acupuncturist. The oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist shall have the right to file a statement with the board concerning the correctness or relevance of the information. The statement shall at all times accompany that part of the record in contention.

(H) An individual or entity that reports to the board, reports to the monitoring organization described in section 4731.25 of the Revised Code, or refers an impaired oriental medicine practitioner or impaired acupuncturist to a treatment provider approved under section 4731.251 of the Revised Code shall not be subject to suit for civil damages as a result of the report, referral, or provision of the information.

(I) In the absence of fraud or bad faith, a professional association or society of oriental medicine practitioners or acupuncturists that sponsors a committee or program to provide peer assistance to an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist with substance abuse problems, a representative or agent of such a committee or program, a representative or agent of the monitoring organization described in section 4731.25 of the Revised Code, and a member of the state medical board shall not be held liable in damages to any person by reason of actions taken to refer an oriental medicine practitioner or acupuncturist to a treatment provider approved under section 4731.251 of the Revised Code for examination or treatment.

Last updated September 5, 2023 at 3:00 PM

Section 4762.17 | Enforcement by secretary of state medical board.

• Effective: March 22, 2013
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 251 - 129th General Assembly

The secretary of the state medical board shall enforce the laws relating to the practice of oriental medicine and acupuncture. If the secretary has knowledge or notice of a violation of this chapter or the rules adopted under it, the secretary shall investigate the matter, and, upon probable cause appearing, file a complaint and prosecute the offender. When requested by the secretary, the prosecuting attorney of the proper county shall take charge of and conduct the prosecution.

Section 4762.18 | Injunctions.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

(A) Subject to division (E) of this section, the attorney general, the prosecuting attorney of any county in which the offense was committed or the offender resides, the state medical board, or any other person having knowledge of a person engaged either directly or by complicity in the practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture without having first obtained a license to do so pursuant to this chapter, may, in accord with provisions of the Revised Code governing injunctions, maintain an action in the name of the state to enjoin any person from engaging either directly or by complicity in the unlawful practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture by applying for an injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(B) Prior to application for an injunction under division (A) of this section, the secretary of the state medical board shall notify the person allegedly engaged either directly or by complicity in the unlawful practice of oriental medicine or acupuncture by registered mail that the secretary has received information indicating that this person is so engaged. The person shall answer the secretary within thirty days showing that the person is either properly licensed for the stated activity or that the person is not in violation of this chapter. If the answer is not forthcoming within thirty days after notice by the secretary, the secretary shall request that the attorney general, the prosecuting attorney of the county in which the offense was committed or the offender resides, or the state medical board proceed as authorized in this section.

(C) Upon the filing of a verified petition in court, the court shall conduct a hearing on the petition and shall give the same preference to this proceeding as is given all proceedings under Chapter 119. of the Revised Code, irrespective of the position of the proceeding on the calendar of the court.

(D) Injunction proceedings as authorized by this section shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, all penalties and other remedies provided in this chapter.

(E) An injunction proceeding permitted by division (A) of this section may not be maintained against a person described in division (B) of section 4762.02 of the Revised Code or a chiropractor who holds a valid certificate to practice acupuncture issued under section 4734.283 of the Revised Code.

Section 4762.19 | Administrative rules.

• Effective: October 3, 2023
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 33 - 135th General Assembly

The state medical board may adopt any rules necessary to govern the practice of acupuncture, the use of herbal therapy by licensed acupuncturists, and the administration and enforcement of this chapter. Rules adopted under this section shall be adopted in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 3, 2023 at 4:25 PM

Section 4762.20 | Fees in excess of statutory amounts.

• Effective: August 10, 2000
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 341 - 123rd General Assembly

The state medical board, subject to the approval of the controlling board, may establish fees in excess of the amounts specified in this chapter, except that the fees may not exceed the specified amounts by more than fifty per cent.

All fees, penalties, and other funds received by the board under this chapter shall be deposited in accordance with section 4731.24 of the Revised Code.

Section 4762.21 | Immunity of board for performing official duties.

• Effective: August 10, 2000
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 341 - 123rd General Assembly

In the absence of fraud or bad faith, the state medical board, a current or former board member, an agent of the board, a person formally requested by the board to be the board's representative, or an employee of the board shall not be held liable in damages to any person as the result of any act, omission, proceeding, conduct, or decision related to official duties undertaken or performed pursuant to this chapter. If any such person asks to be defended by the state against any claim or action arising out of any act, omission, proceeding, conduct, or decision related to the person's official duties, and if the request is made in writing at a reasonable time before trial and the person requesting defense cooperates in good faith in the defense of the claim or action, the state shall provide and pay for the person's defense and shall pay any resulting judgment, compromise, or settlement. At no time shall the state pay any part of a claim or judgment that is for punitive or exemplary damages.

Section 4762.22 | Minimum professional liability insurance required.

• Effective: October 17, 2019
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 166 - 133rd General Assembly

An individual who holds a license to practice as an oriental medicine practitioner or license to practice as an acupuncturist issued under this chapter shall have professional liability insurance coverage in an amount that is not less than five hundred thousand dollars.

Section 4762.23 | Compliance with law regarding sanctions for human trafficking.

• Effective: March 22, 2013
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 247 - 129th General Assembly

The state medical board shall comply with section 4776.20 of the Revised Code.

Section 4762.99 | Penalty.

• Effective: August 10, 2000
• Latest Legislation: House Bill 341 - 123rd General Assembly

(A) Whoever violates section 4762.02 of the Revised Code is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree on a first offense; on each subsequent offense, the person is guilty of a felony of the fourth degree.

(B) Whoever violates division (A), (B), (C), or (D) of section 4762.16 of the Revised Code is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense; on each subsequent offense the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree, except that an individual guilty of a subsequent offense shall not be subject to imprisonment, but to a fine alone of up to one thousand dollars for each offense.