An Act amending the act of December 20, 1985 (P.L.457, No.112), known as the Medical Practice Act of 1985, further providing for definitions, for respiratory therapists, for perfusionist, for genetic counselor and for prosthetists, orthotists, pedorthists and orthotic fitters; providing for medical imaging professionals, radiation therapists, radiologist assistants and trainees; further providing for licenses and certificates and general qualification; repealing provisions relating to radiologic procedures and education and training required; and making a repeal.

SB 1281 updates Pennsylvania's Medical Practice Act to formally include definitions and licensure requirements for several allied health professions, including respiratory therapists, perfusionists, genetic counselors, and prosthetists. The bill also establishes specific rules for medical imaging professionals, radiation therapists, and radiologist assistants, while removing previous education and training mandates related to radiologic procedures. A key provision across these new categories is the requirement that applicants demonstrate good moral character, with a specific instruction for the licensing board to conduct individualized assessments of criminal convictions. By adding these roles to the state's regulatory framework, the legislation ensures that these healthcare workers operate under standardized licensing and qualification standards.