(1) Every licensed acupuncturist shall develop a written plan for consultation, emergency transfer, and referral to other health care practitioners operating within the scope of their authorized practices. The written plan shall be submitted with the initial application for licensure as well as annually thereafter with the license renewal fee to the department. The department may withhold licensure or renewal of licensure if the plan fails to meet the standards contained in rules adopted by the secretary.

     (2) When the acupuncturist sees patients with potentially serious disorders such as cardiac conditions, acute abdominal symptoms, and such other conditions, the acupuncturist shall immediately request a consultation or recent written diagnosis from a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW. In the event that the patient with the disorder refuses to authorize such consultation or provide a recent diagnosis from such physician, acupuncture treatment shall not be continued.

     (3) A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

[2003 c 53 § 122; 1995 c 323 § 12; 1991 c 3 § 14; 1985 c 326 § 14.]

NOTES:

     Intent -- Effective date -- 2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.