Certain Kansas businesses could seek approval to hire naturopathic doctors

Certain businesses could apply to hire licensed naturopathic doctors. Eligible businesses include Kansas employers providing care only to their workers and dependents, certain nonprofit health carriers and their subsidiaries serving enrollees and dependents, and certain information technology companies serving workplace clinics. Medical care facilities and professional corporations are excluded. The business must meet the board's requirements and pay an application fee set by the board, capped at $1,000. The board would issue a certificate if it finds the requirements are met. Certificates must be renewed yearly, with a fee set by the board. The bill says it would take effect after publication in the statute book.

Businesses with a certificate could not control their clinicians' independent care decisions or restrict what they tell patients. These limits apply to businesses holding a certificate of authorization and the licensed health workers they employ. Businesses could not stop clinicians from discussing medically appropriate treatment choices, risks, alternatives, or the business's decisions to approve or deny services, or from speaking up for patients.