The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations recently added new rules to the Medical Practice Act regarding the use of lasers. Among the requirements are:

• The physician must examine the patient prior to any laser procedure being performed

• Ablative procedures require on-site physician supervision

• Non-ablative procedures require the physician to be available on-site or by telephone or other electronic means

• Any person delegated the authority to perform any laser procedures must have appropriate, documented training and education in the safe and effective use of each system utilized.

Physicians should ensure their medical practice is in compliance with these new regulations. View the full laser rule.

Reminder: Physicians must continue to register Class 3b and Class 4 lasers with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), Division of Nuclear Safety. To register your laser, complete the Laser Registration Form and return it to IEMA.