There are many choices for alternative healthcare ayurvedic medicine, homeopathy, feng shui, iridology, herbalism, cranial sacral bodywork, aromatherapy, acupressure, yoga teachers, hypnotherapy; and unlicensed traditional Oriental practices, such as Qi Gong energy healing to name a few. Anyone of these practices each in their own way can ease suffering and bring about wellness. One may simply look in the phonebook or on the Internet and choose from a wealth of healthcare modalities.
The right to be able to select a service from a wealth of practices and modalities is protected by California law. A law which recognizes the professional legitimacy of alternative and complementary health care practitioners and healers allowing them to legally provide and advertise their services in California.
HOW DID THIS LAW COME ABOUT?
On September 23, 2002, history was made in California. With the unanimous support of the legislature, Governor Davis signed into law Senate Bill 577 (SB-577). The bill was sponsored by the California Health Freedom Coalition, a grass-roots effort, and authored by Senator John Burton. The law came into force on January 1, 2003.
FREEDOM TO PRACTICE
Prior to the implementation of the law, virtually anyone practicing any kind of unlicensed healing art in California was in technical violation of the Medical Practice Act and could be prosecuted for “practicing medicine without a license.” Now, practitioners willing to comply with the requirements set forth in SB-577 can offer their services freely within California without fear of being charged with a felony crime.
With the illegal onus removed from unlicensed practitioners, it’s expected more services to be more widely practiced and advertised, which will increase the health care options for consumers. As different practices become more visible and more professional, there is greater likelihood that money will become available to research and further validate the efficacy of particular approaches.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
The language of SB-577 can be found in the State of California Business Professions Code sections 2053.5 & 2053.6. The law clearly states the services a an unlicensed practitioner may perform. I have summarized the law in an article called, Practicing Homeopathy in California.
RELATED POSTS
Why Choose a Certified Professional Homeopath?
SOURCES
State of California Business Professions Code
Health Care Freedom Coalition
© 2011 Myra Nissen
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This article was brought to you by Myra Nissen, CCH, RSHom(NA), Board Certified Classical Homeopath. Myra teaches women how to recognize their body’s unique needs and cues and uses Homeopathy to help empower women to take control of their bodies, health and well-being. Find out more, she regularly publishes articles with home care tips for health and well-bing in several venus. Visit her blog www.MyraNissen.com/blog.