On Sept. 15, leading medical groups in Michigan, including the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, Michigan State Medical Society, Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists, Michigan Academy of Plastic Surgeons, Michigan Orthopaedic Society, Michigan Allergy & Asthma Society, Michigan Society of Hematology and Oncology, Michigan Dermatological Society and Michigan Thoracic Society applauded the introduction of a bill in the Michigan House focused on healthcare title transparency.  

State Rep. John Roth, R-Interlochen, introduced House Bill 6326, which seeks to ensure patients clearly understand the qualifications and training for members of the healthcare team. The title transparency bill would require clinicians to use accurate titles that reflect their education and licensing when interacting with patients. 

“Medical professionals invest significant time, effort, and expertise to earn their credentials,” Roth said. “In an increasingly complex and competitive healthcare environment, greater transparency serves the best interests of patients and helps them make informed decisions about their care.”

The bill's introduction follows reports from patients who expected to be seen by a physician but were instead treated by different types of healthcare providers. The legislation would address growing confusion about titles used in healthcare settings and help patients make informed decisions about their medical care.

Roth’s bill would also help ensure properly licensed professionals are working with patients, shielding them from unnecessary harm that can result from inexperienced providers delivering services outside of their primary training and abilities. 

Key provisions of the title transparency bill include requiring:

• Healthcare professionals to use titles that accurately portray the depth and breadth of their education and respective licensing

• Patient communications include clear identification of the training and qualifications

• Standardized disclosures in all healthcare settings to help ensure patients are well-informed and can consent to care with all the information available to them

• Enforcement mechanisms through existing licensing board for violations

The bill has been formally introduced in the House Health Policy Committee with committee hearings to follow. Questions? Contact Chief Executive Officer Karlene Ketola, MSA, CAE.