Physical therapists in Illinois were recently
informed that they cannot perform acupuncture (which they call dry-needling) by
the IL department of professional regulation. In response to this, they have
introduced an amendment to their practice act to allow them to perform
"invasive, non-surgical techniques". They have no training in
acupuncture and that is why the State of IL told them they cannot do it. This
amendment does not address that concern, but the real problem is that the
wording of this amendment would grant them the ability to do a whole host of
procedures for which they are not trained. If they can do "Invasive,
non-surgical techniques" then they can give injections (including
cortisone and epidurals), draw blood, perform colonoscopies, trans-vaginal
ultrasounds, insert urinary catheters and Naso-Gastric (feeding) tubes, and
many other procedures for which they are not trained. If you think this is not
a good idea, please contact your state senator and representative and ask them
to vote "no" to HB 1457 amendment #2. The vote will be soon, so
please call or email them today. You can find your representative's contact
information here http://openstates.org/find_your_legislator/
