HB 5196, An Act Expanding The Podiatric Scope Of Practice

TESTIMONY OF CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION SUBMITTED TO THE PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE
Monday, February 26, 2024

HB 5196, An Act Expanding The Podiatric Scope Of Practice

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning HB 5196, An Act Expanding The Podiatric Scope Of Practice. CHA appreciates the opportunity to provide comment and requests a modification to the bill.

Connecticut hospitals are critical to their communities. They are confronting the challenges posed by a post-pandemic healthcare system with an exemplary healthcare workforce that continues to provide outstanding care. But challenges remain. Hospitals are treating sicker patients, it continues to be challenging to hire and retain staff, and the financial headwinds are grave. Through it all, hospitals are steadfast, providing high-quality 24-hour care for everyone who walks through their doors, focusing on making Connecticut’s healthcare system more equitable, and driving world-class innovation right here in Connecticut.

CHA was an active participant in the recent Podiatric Scope of Practice Study Group. As part of those discussions, CHA noted that any final scope of practice change affecting podiatry must expressly state that hospitals may determine the criteria for credentialing a podiatrist who performs procedures at the hospital, including that hospitals must maintain the ability to identify the list of procedures that a podiatrist is allowed to perform at the facility. Orthopedists and podiatrists involved in the Podiatric Scope of Practice Study Group universally agreed with CHA’s position. If HB 5196 moves forward, CHA respectfully requests that language be added to the bill to ensure that hospitals maintain the ability to determine what procedures podiatrists are permitted to perform at each facility, which hospitals may set forth in policies or determine through professional credentialing processes.

Thank you for your consideration of our position. For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7310.