Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-204 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-204
Liability insurance requirement
Status: in_force

A person practicing animal massage therapy shall obtain liability insurance in the amount of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) for the benefit of any person who is damaged because of the negligence of the person in the performance of animal massage therapy services. Acts 2018 , ch. 679, § 6.
A person practicing animal massage therapy shall obtain liability insurance in the amount of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) for the benefit of any person who is damaged because of the negligence of the person in the performance of animal massage therapy services.
Acts 2018 , ch. 679, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-22-107 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 22 / Section 63-22-107
Educational requirements and examinations
Status: in_force

(a) On and after July 1, 1991, an applicant for licensure as a professional counselor shall meet the requirements of §§ 63-22-104 and 63-22-110 and, in addition, shall pass an examination as adopted and administered by the board. (b) Effective July 1, 1991, no additional certificates for professional counselors shall be issued by the board. Those persons so certified as professional counselors on or before June 30, 1991, may retain their certification indefinitely by meeting current renewal requirements and may upgrade from certification to licensure by any of the following methods: (1) Complying with this part; (2) Becoming certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC); or (3) Verifying, to the board's satisfaction, that such person has had five (5) prior years' work experience as a certified professional counselor in this state or another state with certification standards that are at least the equivalent of those of this state. (c) An applicant for licensure on or after July 1, 1991, as a licensed marital and family therapist, shall meet the requirements of § 63-22-103(a) or § 63-22-106 , and, in addition, shall pass such examinations as may be administered by the board. After July 1, 1991, no additional marital and family therapist certifications will be issued. Those persons so certified as of July 1, 1991, as marital and family therapists may maintain certification or may upgrade from certification to licensure by any of the following methods: (1) By acquiring the minimum standards provided in § 63-22-106(3) ; (2) By receiving two hundred (200) hours clinical supervision from not more than two (2) supervisors deemed qualified by the board; or (3) By validating fifteen (15) years of clinical practice while maintaining certification by continuing a practice of marital and family therapy. (d) On or after July 1, 1995, an applicant for licensure as a professional counselor designated as a mental health service provider shall meet the requirements of §§ 63-22-104 , 63-22-110 and 63-22-120 . (e) Until June 30, 1997, a currently licensed professional counselor who wishes to obtain designation as a mental health service provider may do so by documenting both training and experience relative to the diagnosis, treatment, appraisal and assessment of mental disorders or by documenting training and experience in teaching these courses for a minimum of three (3) years as a university professor. The training and experience documented must be substantially equivalent to that required for new licensed professional counselors designated as mental health service providers. (f) Any licensed professional counselor who does not wish to secure designation as a mental health service provider may maintain a professional counselor license, but is ineligible to appraise, assess, diagnose or treat conditions attributable to a mental disorder. Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 8; 1985, ch. 77, § 3; 1991, ch. 141, § 7; 1991, ch. 421, § 12; 1995, ch. 318, § 3.
(a) On and after July 1, 1991, an applicant for licensure as a professional counselor shall meet the requirements of §§ 63-22-104 and 63-22-110 and, in addition, shall pass an examination as adopted and administered by the board.
(b) Effective July 1, 1991, no additional certificates for professional counselors shall be issued by the board. Those persons so certified as professional counselors on or before June 30, 1991, may retain their certification indefinitely by meeting current renewal requirements and may upgrade from certification to licensure by any of the following methods: (1) Complying with this part; (2) Becoming certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC); or (3) Verifying, to the board's satisfaction, that such person has had five (5) prior years' work experience as a certified professional counselor in this state or another state with certification standards that are at least the equivalent of those of this state.
(1) Complying with this part;
(2) Becoming certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC); or
(3) Verifying, to the board's satisfaction, that such person has had five (5) prior years' work experience as a certified professional counselor in this state or another state with certification standards that are at least the equivalent of those of this state.
(c) An applicant for licensure on or after July 1, 1991, as a licensed marital and family therapist, shall meet the requirements of § 63-22-103(a) or § 63-22-106 , and, in addition, shall pass such examinations as may be administered by the board. After July 1, 1991, no additional marital and family therapist certifications will be issued. Those persons so certified as of July 1, 1991, as marital and family therapists may maintain certification or may upgrade from certification to licensure by any of the following methods: (1) By acquiring the minimum standards provided in § 63-22-106(3) ; (2) By receiving two hundred (200) hours clinical supervision from not more than two (2) supervisors deemed qualified by the board; or (3) By validating fifteen (15) years of clinical practice while maintaining certification by continuing a practice of marital and family therapy.
(1) By acquiring the minimum standards provided in § 63-22-106(3) ;
(2) By receiving two hundred (200) hours clinical supervision from not more than two (2) supervisors deemed qualified by the board; or
(3) By validating fifteen (15) years of clinical practice while maintaining certification by continuing a practice of marital and family therapy.
(d) On or after July 1, 1995, an applicant for licensure as a professional counselor designated as a mental health service provider shall meet the requirements of §§ 63-22-104 , 63-22-110 and 63-22-120 .
(e) Until June 30, 1997, a currently licensed professional counselor who wishes to obtain designation as a mental health service provider may do so by documenting both training and experience relative to the diagnosis, treatment, appraisal and assessment of mental disorders or by documenting training and experience in teaching these courses for a minimum of three (3) years as a university professor. The training and experience documented must be substantially equivalent to that required for new licensed professional counselors designated as mental health service providers.
(f) Any licensed professional counselor who does not wish to secure designation as a mental health service provider may maintain a professional counselor license, but is ineligible to appraise, assess, diagnose or treat conditions attributable to a mental disorder.
Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 8; 1985, ch. 77, § 3; 1991, ch. 141, § 7; 1991, ch. 421, § 12; 1995, ch. 318, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-11-601 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 11 / Section 63-11-601
Purpose
Status: in_force

(a) The practice of music therapy in this state is declared to affect the public health, safety, and welfare of citizens of this state. (b) To assist the board of examiners in psychology in the performance of its duties, there is established the professional music therapy advisory committee of the board of examiners in psychology to protect the public from: (1) The practice of clinical music therapy by unqualified persons; and (2) Unprofessional, unethical, and harmful conduct by music therapy practitioners. (c) A person shall not represent to be or function as a professional music therapist in this state unless the person holds a valid certificate issued by the advisory committee. The committee shall also regulate the practice of music therapy. (d) This part does not restrict the non-clinical, non-therapeutic music intervention of the Tennessee person-centered music program administered by the Tennessee commission on aging and disability, created by § 71-2-104 , and associated area agencies on aging and disability or their representatives. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
(a) The practice of music therapy in this state is declared to affect the public health, safety, and welfare of citizens of this state.
(b) To assist the board of examiners in psychology in the performance of its duties, there is established the professional music therapy advisory committee of the board of examiners in psychology to protect the public from: (1) The practice of clinical music therapy by unqualified persons; and (2) Unprofessional, unethical, and harmful conduct by music therapy practitioners.
(1) The practice of clinical music therapy by unqualified persons; and
(2) Unprofessional, unethical, and harmful conduct by music therapy practitioners.
(c) A person shall not represent to be or function as a professional music therapist in this state unless the person holds a valid certificate issued by the advisory committee. The committee shall also regulate the practice of music therapy.
(d) This part does not restrict the non-clinical, non-therapeutic music intervention of the Tennessee person-centered music program administered by the Tennessee commission on aging and disability, created by § 71-2-104 , and associated area agencies on aging and disability or their representatives.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-505 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-505
Immunity and exemption
Status: in_force

(a) Except for acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith, a drug manufacturer is not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury, death, or loss to a person or property for matters related to the donation, acceptance, or dispensing of a prescription drug manufactured by the drug manufacturer that is donated under this part, including liability for failure to transfer or communicate product or consumer information or the expiration date of the donated prescription drug. (b) Except as provided in subsection (d), a medical facility or another person who is not a drug manufacturer subject to subsection (a) is not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury to or the death of an individual to whom a donated prescription drug is dispensed under this part except due to its own acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith. (c) Except for acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith, the department of health or the board of pharmacy are not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury, death, or loss to a person or property resulting from matters related to the donation, acceptance, distribution, or dispensing of a prescription drug donated pursuant to this part. (d) The immunity and exemption provided in subsections (b) and (c) do not apply to the following: (1) The donation, acceptance, distribution, or dispensing of a donated prescription drug under this part by a person if the person's acts or omissions are not performed reasonably and in good faith; or (2) Acts or omissions outside the scope of the program. Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 200, s 1, eff. 1/1/2024.
(a) Except for acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith, a drug manufacturer is not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury, death, or loss to a person or property for matters related to the donation, acceptance, or dispensing of a prescription drug manufactured by the drug manufacturer that is donated under this part, including liability for failure to transfer or communicate product or consumer information or the expiration date of the donated prescription drug.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (d), a medical facility or another person who is not a drug manufacturer subject to subsection (a) is not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury to or the death of an individual to whom a donated prescription drug is dispensed under this part except due to its own acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith.
(c) Except for acts of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or bad faith, the department of health or the board of pharmacy are not civilly liable or subject to criminal prosecution for injury, death, or loss to a person or property resulting from matters related to the donation, acceptance, distribution, or dispensing of a prescription drug donated pursuant to this part.
(d) The immunity and exemption provided in subsections (b) and (c) do not apply to the following: (1) The donation, acceptance, distribution, or dispensing of a donated prescription drug under this part by a person if the person's acts or omissions are not performed reasonably and in good faith; or (2) Acts or omissions outside the scope of the program.
(1) The donation, acceptance, distribution, or dispensing of a donated prescription drug under this part by a person if the person's acts or omissions are not performed reasonably and in good faith; or
(2) Acts or omissions outside the scope of the program.
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 200, s 1, eff. 1/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1107 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1107
Construction
Status: in_force

This part does not: (1) Create or recognize a right to abortion; (2) Make lawful an abortion that is otherwise unlawful; or (3) Repeal, replace, or otherwise invalidate existing federal laws, regulations, or policies. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
This part does not:
(1) Create or recognize a right to abortion;
(2) Make lawful an abortion that is otherwise unlawful; or
(3) Repeal, replace, or otherwise invalidate existing federal laws, regulations, or policies.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-23-208 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 23 / Section 63-23-208
Military families
Status: in_force

An active military member or their spouse shall designate a home state where the individual has a multistate license. The individual may retain their home state designation during the period the service member is on active duty. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1041,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
An active military member or their spouse shall designate a home state where the individual has a multistate license. The individual may retain their home state designation during the period the service member is on active duty.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1041,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-302 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-302
Exemptions from part
Status: in_force

This part does not apply to: (1) A medical or dental school, an osteopathic medical school, a nursing school, a physician assistant program or an outpatient clinic associated with any of the foregoing schools or programs, including, but not limited to, clinics that have an agreement to train residents by members of that clinic who are appointed as adjunct faculty of the school or program; (2) A hospital as defined in § 68-11-201 , including any outpatient facility or clinic of a hospital if such outpatient facility or clinic is regulated under title 68; (3) Hospice services as defined in § 68-11-201 ; (4) A nursing home as defined in § 68-11-201 ; (5) A facility maintained or operated by this state; or (6) A hospital or clinic maintained or operated by the federal government. Acts 2011, ch. 340, § 1; 2012, ch. 869, §§ 2, 3.
This part does not apply to:
(1) A medical or dental school, an osteopathic medical school, a nursing school, a physician assistant program or an outpatient clinic associated with any of the foregoing schools or programs, including, but not limited to, clinics that have an agreement to train residents by members of that clinic who are appointed as adjunct faculty of the school or program;
(2) A hospital as defined in § 68-11-201 , including any outpatient facility or clinic of a hospital if such outpatient facility or clinic is regulated under title 68;
(3) Hospice services as defined in § 68-11-201 ;
(4) A nursing home as defined in § 68-11-201 ;
(5) A facility maintained or operated by this state; or
(6) A hospital or clinic maintained or operated by the federal government.
Acts 2011, ch. 340, § 1; 2012, ch. 869, §§ 2, 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1201 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1201
Part definitions
Status: in_force

For purposes of this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Cytopathology services" means the examination of cells from fluids, aspirates, washings, brushings or smears, including the Pap test examination performed by a physician or under the supervision of a physician; and (2) "Onsite medical clinic" means a medical clinic located on the premises of the patient's employer for which cytopathology services are provided and for which a patient has no financial obligation to pay for the cytopathology services. Acts 2006, ch. 1003, § 6; 2007 , ch. 117, § 1.
For purposes of this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Cytopathology services" means the examination of cells from fluids, aspirates, washings, brushings or smears, including the Pap test examination performed by a physician or under the supervision of a physician; and
(2) "Onsite medical clinic" means a medical clinic located on the premises of the patient's employer for which cytopathology services are provided and for which a patient has no financial obligation to pay for the cytopathology services.
Acts 2006, ch. 1003, § 6; 2007 , ch. 117, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-32-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 32 / Section 63-32-109
Costs assessed against boards
Status: in_force

The costs assessed against each board of providers shall be paid from the separate account established pursuant to § 63-1-137 in the general fund for each board. Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 9; 1999, ch. 373, § 2.
The costs assessed against each board of providers shall be paid from the separate account established pursuant to § 63-1-137 in the general fund for each board.
Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 9; 1999, ch. 373, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-118 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-118
Certification of fitness for license in other state
Status: in_force

(a) A licensee of any branch of the healing arts who seeks to be licensed in another state by reciprocity on the basis of the licensee's Tennessee license shall have the application for the license certified by the board of the particular branch of the healing arts in which the licensee is licensed. (b) The fee for this certificate shall be set by and paid to the board of the particular branch of the healing arts in which the applicant is licensed. Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 3; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.3 (Williams, § 6917.20); Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-104; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 57; T.C.A., § 63-1-105 ; Acts 1990, ch. 1026, § 31.
(a) A licensee of any branch of the healing arts who seeks to be licensed in another state by reciprocity on the basis of the licensee's Tennessee license shall have the application for the license certified by the board of the particular branch of the healing arts in which the licensee is licensed.
(b) The fee for this certificate shall be set by and paid to the board of the particular branch of the healing arts in which the applicant is licensed.
Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 3; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.3 (Williams, § 6917.20); Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-104; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 57; T.C.A., § 63-1-105 ; Acts 1990, ch. 1026, § 31.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-112 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-112
Issuance of license
Status: in_force

The board shall issue a license to all applicants who meet the requirements of this chapter and who pay to the board the initial license fee. Acts 1973, ch. 93, § 12; T.C.A., § 63-1712.
The board shall issue a license to all applicants who meet the requirements of this chapter and who pay to the board the initial license fee.
Acts 1973, ch. 93, § 12; T.C.A., § 63-1712.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-106 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-106
Powers of board
Status: in_force

The board is authorized to: (1) Adopt reasonable rules governing the practice of veterinary medicine as are necessary to enable it to carry out and make effective the purpose and intent of this chapter. Such rules shall be adopted pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5; (2) Adopt rules of professional conduct appropriate to establish and maintain a high standard of integrity, skills and practice in the profession of veterinary medicine. In prescribing such rules of professional conduct, the board may be guided by the principles of veterinary medical ethics adopted by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association; (3) Have its rules printed and distributed to all licensed doctors of veterinary medicine; (4) Bring proceedings in courts for the enforcement of this chapter or any rules made pursuant thereto; (5) Hold at least one (1) regular meeting each year at such time and place as fixed by the board. Other meetings may be held upon the call of the president and secretary. The regular meetings will be for the purpose of conducting examinations of applications for license to practice veterinary medicine, the election of officers and to consider any other business that may properly come before the board; (6) Pass upon the qualifications of applicants for a license to practice veterinary medicine in this state; (7) Prescribe the subjects, character, manner, time and place of holding examinations and the filing of applications for examinations and to conduct the examinations; (8) Issue temporary permits or licenses, which shall be signed by the secretary, to duly qualified applicants; (9) Provide for, regulate and require all persons licensed in accordance with this chapter to renew their license annually, require as a condition precedent to such annual renewal the payment of the annual renewal fee as provided in § 63-12-121 , issue annual renewal licenses to such persons and suspend or revoke the license of such persons who fail, refuse or neglect to renew same or pay such fees; (10) Conduct investigations and hearings upon complaints calling for discipline of a licensee or applicant for license or certificate or permit holder or applicant for a certificate or a permit; (11) Take testimony on any matter under its jurisdiction, and any member thereof may administer oaths; (12) Issue summonses and subpoenas, including subpoenas duces tecum, which shall be signed by either the president or the secretary-treasurer of the board, for any witness in connection with any matter within the jurisdiction of the board; (13) Adopt such forms as it may deem necessary; (14) Establish continuing educational requirements; and (15) Issue such certificates as are authorized under this chapter. Acts 1967, ch. 80, §§ 6, 35; T.C.A., § 63-1206; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 4; 1997 , ch. 106, §§ 3, 4.
The board is authorized to:
(1) Adopt reasonable rules governing the practice of veterinary medicine as are necessary to enable it to carry out and make effective the purpose and intent of this chapter. Such rules shall be adopted pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5;
(2) Adopt rules of professional conduct appropriate to establish and maintain a high standard of integrity, skills and practice in the profession of veterinary medicine. In prescribing such rules of professional conduct, the board may be guided by the principles of veterinary medical ethics adopted by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association;
(3) Have its rules printed and distributed to all licensed doctors of veterinary medicine;
(4) Bring proceedings in courts for the enforcement of this chapter or any rules made pursuant thereto;
(5) Hold at least one (1) regular meeting each year at such time and place as fixed by the board. Other meetings may be held upon the call of the president and secretary. The regular meetings will be for the purpose of conducting examinations of applications for license to practice veterinary medicine, the election of officers and to consider any other business that may properly come before the board;
(6) Pass upon the qualifications of applicants for a license to practice veterinary medicine in this state;
(7) Prescribe the subjects, character, manner, time and place of holding examinations and the filing of applications for examinations and to conduct the examinations;
(8) Issue temporary permits or licenses, which shall be signed by the secretary, to duly qualified applicants;
(9) Provide for, regulate and require all persons licensed in accordance with this chapter to renew their license annually, require as a condition precedent to such annual renewal the payment of the annual renewal fee as provided in § 63-12-121 , issue annual renewal licenses to such persons and suspend or revoke the license of such persons who fail, refuse or neglect to renew same or pay such fees;
(10) Conduct investigations and hearings upon complaints calling for discipline of a licensee or applicant for license or certificate or permit holder or applicant for a certificate or a permit;
(11) Take testimony on any matter under its jurisdiction, and any member thereof may administer oaths;
(12) Issue summonses and subpoenas, including subpoenas duces tecum, which shall be signed by either the president or the secretary-treasurer of the board, for any witness in connection with any matter within the jurisdiction of the board;
(13) Adopt such forms as it may deem necessary;
(14) Establish continuing educational requirements; and
(15) Issue such certificates as are authorized under this chapter.
Acts 1967, ch. 80, §§ 6, 35; T.C.A., § 63-1206; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 4; 1997 , ch. 106, §§ 3, 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-140 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-140
Operation without permit prohibited - Penalty
Status: in_force

(a) It is an offense to knowingly operate a veterinary facility in this state without a premises permit. (b) A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor and each violation constitutes a separate offense. Acts 1996, ch. 771, § 2.
(a) It is an offense to knowingly operate a veterinary facility in this state without a premises permit.
(b) A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor and each violation constitutes a separate offense.
Acts 1996, ch. 771, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-9-113 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 9 / Section 63-9-113
Supervised osteopathic medical service by physician assistant, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, graduate physician, or pharmacist not prohibited
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall be so construed as to prohibit osteopathic medical service rendered by a physician assistant, registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, a graduate physician, or a pharmacist pursuant to a collaborative pharmacy practice agreement, if such osteopathic medical service is rendered under the supervision, control and responsibility of a licensed osteopathic physician. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 470, s 2, eff. 1/1/2025. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 832, s 6, eff. 7/1/2014. Acts 1992, ch. 604, § 5.
Nothing in this chapter shall be so construed as to prohibit osteopathic medical service rendered by a physician assistant, registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, a graduate physician, or a pharmacist pursuant to a collaborative pharmacy practice agreement, if such osteopathic medical service is rendered under the supervision, control and responsibility of a licensed osteopathic physician.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 470, s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 832, s 6, eff. 7/1/2014.
Acts 1992, ch. 604, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-503 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-503
Purchase and payment of medical services or products outside of insurance plan or outside of TennCare or Medicare program not prohibited
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Nothing in state law prohibits a patient or a legal representative of a patient from seeking care outside of an insurance plan, or outside of the TennCare or Medicare program, and paying for that care. (2) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products outside of an insurance plan. (3) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products provided to a TennCare or Medicare beneficiary. (b) A patient or legal representative does not forfeit insurance benefits, TennCare benefits, or Medicare benefits by purchasing medical services or medical products outside the system. (c) The offer and provision of medical services or medical products purchased and provided under this part is not an offer of insurance and is not regulated by the insurance laws of this state. Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 739, s 1, eff. 7/1/2020. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 996, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
(a) (1) Nothing in state law prohibits a patient or a legal representative of a patient from seeking care outside of an insurance plan, or outside of the TennCare or Medicare program, and paying for that care. (2) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products outside of an insurance plan. (3) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products provided to a TennCare or Medicare beneficiary.
(1) Nothing in state law prohibits a patient or a legal representative of a patient from seeking care outside of an insurance plan, or outside of the TennCare or Medicare program, and paying for that care.
(2) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products outside of an insurance plan.
(3) Nothing in state law prohibits a medical care provider licensed under this title, or a healthcare facility, licensed under title 33 or 68, from accepting payment for services or medical products provided to a TennCare or Medicare beneficiary.
(b) A patient or legal representative does not forfeit insurance benefits, TennCare benefits, or Medicare benefits by purchasing medical services or medical products outside the system.
(c) The offer and provision of medical services or medical products purchased and provided under this part is not an offer of insurance and is not regulated by the insurance laws of this state.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 739, s 1, eff. 7/1/2020.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 996, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-11-606 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 11 / Section 63-11-606
Reciprocity
Status: in_force

(a) The advisory committee may, at its discretion, grant a certificate to any person residing or employed in this state who is certified by a similar entity in another state whose standards, as determined by the advisory committee, are not less stringent than the standards required by this part. (b) The advisory committee may enter into a reciprocal agreement with another state or jurisdiction that certifies persons engaged in the practice of professional music therapy, if the advisory committee determines that the other state has substantially similar or more stringent certification requirements than this state. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
(a) The advisory committee may, at its discretion, grant a certificate to any person residing or employed in this state who is certified by a similar entity in another state whose standards, as determined by the advisory committee, are not less stringent than the standards required by this part.
(b) The advisory committee may enter into a reciprocal agreement with another state or jurisdiction that certifies persons engaged in the practice of professional music therapy, if the advisory committee determines that the other state has substantially similar or more stringent certification requirements than this state.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-216 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-216
Compounding pharmacies
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Prior to initial licensure in this state as a compounding pharmacy, a pharmacy located outside of this state must have an inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located. Out-of-state pharmacy practice sites must provide to the board a copy of the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months. (2) Prior to renewal of its license in this state, an out-of-state pharmacy practice site must provide to the board the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months. (3) The board may require additional information before issuing or renewing a pharmacy license to ensure compliance with applicable laws of this state and rules of the board. (b) A compounding pharmacy that has an active license issued by the board shall notify the board within fourteen (14) business days of receipt of an order or decision by a regulatory or licensing agency, other than the board, imposing a disciplinary action, including a warning, on the pharmacy. (c) A pharmacy engaged in compounding must comply with relevant United States Pharmacopeia (USP) guidelines as adopted by the board by rule. (d) A pharmacy that engages in sterile compounding, except hospital pharmacies compounding for inpatients of a hospital, shall, upon request, make available to the board the quantity of sterile compounded products dispensed in a defined time period in accordance with rules promulgated by the board. However, the executive director of the board may request this information from a hospital pharmacy for cause and the hospital pharmacy shall respond in a timely manner as defined by the executive director of the board. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 149, s 1, eff. 4/13/2021. Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 266, s 3, eff. 4/25/2013.
(a) (1) Prior to initial licensure in this state as a compounding pharmacy, a pharmacy located outside of this state must have an inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located. Out-of-state pharmacy practice sites must provide to the board a copy of the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months. (2) Prior to renewal of its license in this state, an out-of-state pharmacy practice site must provide to the board the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months. (3) The board may require additional information before issuing or renewing a pharmacy license to ensure compliance with applicable laws of this state and rules of the board.
(1) Prior to initial licensure in this state as a compounding pharmacy, a pharmacy located outside of this state must have an inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located. Out-of-state pharmacy practice sites must provide to the board a copy of the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months.
(2) Prior to renewal of its license in this state, an out-of-state pharmacy practice site must provide to the board the most recent inspection by the regulatory or licensing agency of the state in which the pharmacy practice site is physically located, or an equivalent inspection accepted by the board, that must have been within the previous twelve (12) months.
(3) The board may require additional information before issuing or renewing a pharmacy license to ensure compliance with applicable laws of this state and rules of the board.
(b) A compounding pharmacy that has an active license issued by the board shall notify the board within fourteen (14) business days of receipt of an order or decision by a regulatory or licensing agency, other than the board, imposing a disciplinary action, including a warning, on the pharmacy.
(c) A pharmacy engaged in compounding must comply with relevant United States Pharmacopeia (USP) guidelines as adopted by the board by rule.
(d) A pharmacy that engages in sterile compounding, except hospital pharmacies compounding for inpatients of a hospital, shall, upon request, make available to the board the quantity of sterile compounded products dispensed in a defined time period in accordance with rules promulgated by the board. However, the executive director of the board may request this information from a hospital pharmacy for cause and the hospital pharmacy shall respond in a timely manner as defined by the executive director of the board.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 149, s 1, eff. 4/13/2021.
Added by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 266, s 3, eff. 4/25/2013.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-703 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-703
[ For Postponed Repealed, see T.C.A. § 63-1-707] Recommendation of strategic action plan
Status: repealed

The task force shall recommend a strategic action plan to guide the administration and general assembly on how to: (1) Address the challenges of quality, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare professionals in this state; (2) More effectively use public resources to address those challenges; (3) Study the rates paid to healthcare workers employed in state government compared to healthcare workers in the private sector who perform the same function; (4) Address the challenges facing health professionals, generally; and (5) Address current workforce shortage challenges and future projections for such shortages. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1138, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022. Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1138, s 1, eff. 12/31/2023.
(1) Address the challenges of quality, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare professionals in this state;
(2) More effectively use public resources to address those challenges;
(3) Study the rates paid to healthcare workers employed in state government compared to healthcare workers in the private sector who perform the same function;
(4) Address the challenges facing health professionals, generally; and
(5) Address current workforce shortage challenges and future projections for such shortages.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1138, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1138, s 1, eff. 12/31/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-31-112 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 31 / Section 63-31-112
Screening panel for investigative and disciplinary process
Status: in_force

(a) The committee may utilize one (1) or more screening panels in its investigative and disciplinary process to assure that complaints filed and investigations conducted are meritorious and to act as a mechanism for resolution of complaints or diversion to professional peer review organizations or impaired professionals' associations or foundations of those cases that the board, through established guidelines, deems appropriate. (b) The screening panel has the authority to administer oaths to witnesses. (c) Members of a screening panel may be drawn from the membership of the committee or may be appointed by the committee. Noncommittee members shall meet the requirements of membership on the committee and may include a consumer member. A committee member serving on a panel shall not participate in a contested case involving any matter heard by the panel. Acts 2007 , ch. 469, § 1.
(a) The committee may utilize one (1) or more screening panels in its investigative and disciplinary process to assure that complaints filed and investigations conducted are meritorious and to act as a mechanism for resolution of complaints or diversion to professional peer review organizations or impaired professionals' associations or foundations of those cases that the board, through established guidelines, deems appropriate.
(b) The screening panel has the authority to administer oaths to witnesses.
(c) Members of a screening panel may be drawn from the membership of the committee or may be appointed by the committee. Noncommittee members shall meet the requirements of membership on the committee and may include a consumer member. A committee member serving on a panel shall not participate in a contested case involving any matter heard by the panel.
Acts 2007 , ch. 469, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-115 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-115
Employment of administrative and enforcement personnel
Status: in_force

The division is authorized to employ investigators, inspectors or agents or to use any other means necessary to bring about and maintain a rigid administration and enforcement of this chapter and all laws regulating the practice of the healing arts and the various branches thereof within this state. Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.13 (Williams, § 6917.30); Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-127; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 78; T.C.A., § 63-1-127.
The division is authorized to employ investigators, inspectors or agents or to use any other means necessary to bring about and maintain a rigid administration and enforcement of this chapter and all laws regulating the practice of the healing arts and the various branches thereof within this state.
Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.13 (Williams, § 6917.30); Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-127; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 78; T.C.A., § 63-1-127.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-805 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-805
Compliance with ethical codes
Status: in_force

(a) All licensees shall comply with the current code of ethics adopted by the National Society of Genetic Counselors, except to the extent that it conflicts with state laws or the rules of the board. If the code of ethics conflicts with state law or rules, state law or rules govern the matter. A violation of the code of ethics or state law or rules may subject a licensee to disciplinary action. (b) Each applicant or licensee is responsible for being familiar with and following the code of ethics. (c) A copy of the code of ethics may be obtained by writing the National Society of Genetic Counselors, 401 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 or by visiting the website www.nsgc.org. Acts 2007 , ch. 366, § 1.
(a) All licensees shall comply with the current code of ethics adopted by the National Society of Genetic Counselors, except to the extent that it conflicts with state laws or the rules of the board. If the code of ethics conflicts with state law or rules, state law or rules govern the matter. A violation of the code of ethics or state law or rules may subject a licensee to disciplinary action.
(b) Each applicant or licensee is responsible for being familiar with and following the code of ethics.
(c) A copy of the code of ethics may be obtained by writing the National Society of Genetic Counselors, 401 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 or by visiting the website www.nsgc.org.
Acts 2007 , ch. 366, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-24-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 24 / Section 63-24-101
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Athletic injury" means any injury sustained by a person as a result of such person's participation in exercises, sports, games, or recreation requiring physical strength, agility, flexibility, range of motion, speed, or stamina, or comparable athletic injury that prevents such person from participating in such activities; (2) "Athletic trainer" means a person with specific qualifications as set forth in this chapter, who, upon the advice, consent and oral or written prescriptions or referrals of a physician licensed under this title, carries out the practice of prevention, recognition, evaluation, management, disposition, treatment, or rehabilitation of athletic injuries, and, in carrying out these functions the athletic trainer is authorized to use physical modalities, such as heat, light, sound, cold, electricity, or mechanical devices related to prevention, recognition, evaluation, management, disposition, rehabilitation, and treatment; an athletic trainer shall practice only in those areas in which such athletic trainer is competent by reason of training or experience that can be substantiated by records or other evidence found acceptable by the board in the exercise of the board's considered discretion; and (3) "Board" means the board of athletic trainers. Acts 1983, ch. 361, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-6-301; Acts 1993, ch. 361, § 1; 2000, ch. 694, §1; 2006, ch. 872, § 1.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Athletic injury" means any injury sustained by a person as a result of such person's participation in exercises, sports, games, or recreation requiring physical strength, agility, flexibility, range of motion, speed, or stamina, or comparable athletic injury that prevents such person from participating in such activities;
(2) "Athletic trainer" means a person with specific qualifications as set forth in this chapter, who, upon the advice, consent and oral or written prescriptions or referrals of a physician licensed under this title, carries out the practice of prevention, recognition, evaluation, management, disposition, treatment, or rehabilitation of athletic injuries, and, in carrying out these functions the athletic trainer is authorized to use physical modalities, such as heat, light, sound, cold, electricity, or mechanical devices related to prevention, recognition, evaluation, management, disposition, rehabilitation, and treatment; an athletic trainer shall practice only in those areas in which such athletic trainer is competent by reason of training or experience that can be substantiated by records or other evidence found acceptable by the board in the exercise of the board's considered discretion; and
(3) "Board" means the board of athletic trainers.
Acts 1983, ch. 361, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-6-301; Acts 1993, ch. 361, § 1; 2000, ch. 694, §1; 2006, ch. 872, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-3-102 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 3 / Section 63-3-102
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Board" means the board of podiatric medical examiners; and (2) "Division" means the division of health related boards of the department of health. Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.15 (Williams, § 7182.16); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-302; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 4; 2005, ch. 228, § 1.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Board" means the board of podiatric medical examiners; and
(2) "Division" means the division of health related boards of the department of health.
Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.15 (Williams, § 7182.16); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-302; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 4; 2005, ch. 228, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-22-114 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 22 / Section 63-22-114
Confidentiality
Status: in_force

The confidential relations and communications between licensed marital and family therapists, licensed professional counselors or certified clinical pastoral therapists and clients are placed upon the same basis as those provided by law between attorney and client, and nothing in this part shall be construed to require any such privileged communication to be disclosed. However, nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prevent disclosures of confidential communications in proceedings arising under title 37, chapter 1, part 4 concerning mandatory child abuse reports. Acts 1990, ch. 760, § 2; 1991, ch. 421, § 20; 1993, ch. 152, § 1; 1997 , ch. 485, § 5.
The confidential relations and communications between licensed marital and family therapists, licensed professional counselors or certified clinical pastoral therapists and clients are placed upon the same basis as those provided by law between attorney and client, and nothing in this part shall be construed to require any such privileged communication to be disclosed. However, nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prevent disclosures of confidential communications in proceedings arising under title 37, chapter 1, part 4 concerning mandatory child abuse reports.
Acts 1990, ch. 760, § 2; 1991, ch. 421, § 20; 1993, ch. 152, § 1; 1997 , ch. 485, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-107 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-107
Applicability
Status: in_force

This part does not apply to any services rendered pursuant to the Medical Assistance Act of 1968, compiled in title 71, chapter 5, part 1. Acts 1981, ch. 104, § 9; T.C.A. § 63-1058; T.C.A. § 63-10-308 .
This part does not apply to any services rendered pursuant to the Medical Assistance Act of 1968, compiled in title 71, chapter 5, part 1.
Acts 1981, ch. 104, § 9; T.C.A. § 63-1058; T.C.A. § 63-10-308 .
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-30-112 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 30 / Section 63-30-112
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The commissioner or the commissioner's designee may promulgate rules and regulations pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, to administer this chapter. Acts 2001, ch. 389, § 13.
The commissioner or the commissioner's designee may promulgate rules and regulations pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, to administer this chapter.
Acts 2001, ch. 389, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-133 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-133
Director - Member of agencies
Status: in_force

(a) The director of the division or the director's duly authorized representative shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of each agency attached to this division and shall be entitled to attend all meetings of such agencies. (b) All agencies attached to this division shall advise the director of any meeting at which official action will be taken at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to such meeting unless the director expressly waives such requirement. Acts 1971, ch. 81, § 7; T.C.A., §§ 53-123, 68-1-603.
(a) The director of the division or the director's duly authorized representative shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of each agency attached to this division and shall be entitled to attend all meetings of such agencies.
(b) All agencies attached to this division shall advise the director of any meeting at which official action will be taken at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to such meeting unless the director expressly waives such requirement.
Acts 1971, ch. 81, § 7; T.C.A., §§ 53-123, 68-1-603.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-8-124 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 8 / Section 63-8-124
Public policy
Status: in_force

It is the public policy of the state that: (1) Optometrists rendering visual care to citizens shall practice in an ethical, professional manner; (2) Optometrists' practices shall be free from any influences that would interfere with their exercise of professional judgment; (3) The visual welfare of the optometrist's patient shall be the prime consideration at all times; and (4) Optometrists shall not be associated with any person or persons in any manner that might degrade or reduce the quality of visual care received by the citizens of this state. Acts 2003 , ch. 246, § 1.
It is the public policy of the state that:
(1) Optometrists rendering visual care to citizens shall practice in an ethical, professional manner;
(2) Optometrists' practices shall be free from any influences that would interfere with their exercise of professional judgment;
(3) The visual welfare of the optometrist's patient shall be the prime consideration at all times; and
(4) Optometrists shall not be associated with any person or persons in any manner that might degrade or reduce the quality of visual care received by the citizens of this state.
Acts 2003 , ch. 246, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-3-117 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 3 / Section 63-3-117
Application of health laws
Status: in_force

Licensed podiatrists shall observe and be subject to all state and municipal regulations relating to the control of contagious and infectious diseases and all matters pertaining to public health, making reports to proper health officers in the same manner as other practitioners of the healing arts are required to make. Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 8; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.20 (Williams, § 7182.21); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-317.
Licensed podiatrists shall observe and be subject to all state and municipal regulations relating to the control of contagious and infectious diseases and all matters pertaining to public health, making reports to proper health officers in the same manner as other practitioners of the healing arts are required to make.
Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 8; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.20 (Williams, § 7182.21); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-317.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-201 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-201
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Free health clinic" means a health care facility operated by a nonprofit private entity that does not receive payment for its services and does not impose any charges on the individuals to whom services are rendered; (2) "Medical practitioner" means a: (A) Physician licensed under chapter 6 or 9 of this title; (B) Dentist or dental hygienist licensed under chapter 5 of this title; (C) Nurse licensed under chapter 7 of this title; (D) Chiropractor licensed under chapter 4 of this title; (E) Psychologist licensed under chapter 11 of this title; (F) Social worker licensed under chapter 23 of this title; (G) Physician assistant licensed under chapter 19 of this title; (H) Licensed Professional Counselors licensed under chapter 22 of this title; (I) Marital and Family Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and (J) Clinical Pastoral Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and (3) "Special volunteer license" means a license awarded to a medical practitioner whose sole practice is rendering professional services without remuneration in a free health clinic at a specified site or setting. The practitioner must have been previously issued a license to practice in this state or another state and the practitioner must never have been the subject of disciplinary action. The licensing authority shall require an application and relevant documentation before issuing the special volunteer license. No fee may be charged for an application or issuance of the special license. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1035,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 2004, ch. 579, § 1.
As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Free health clinic" means a health care facility operated by a nonprofit private entity that does not receive payment for its services and does not impose any charges on the individuals to whom services are rendered;
(2) "Medical practitioner" means a: (A) Physician licensed under chapter 6 or 9 of this title; (B) Dentist or dental hygienist licensed under chapter 5 of this title; (C) Nurse licensed under chapter 7 of this title; (D) Chiropractor licensed under chapter 4 of this title; (E) Psychologist licensed under chapter 11 of this title; (F) Social worker licensed under chapter 23 of this title; (G) Physician assistant licensed under chapter 19 of this title; (H) Licensed Professional Counselors licensed under chapter 22 of this title; (I) Marital and Family Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and (J) Clinical Pastoral Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and
(A) Physician licensed under chapter 6 or 9 of this title;
(B) Dentist or dental hygienist licensed under chapter 5 of this title;
(C) Nurse licensed under chapter 7 of this title;
(D) Chiropractor licensed under chapter 4 of this title;
(E) Psychologist licensed under chapter 11 of this title;
(F) Social worker licensed under chapter 23 of this title;
(G) Physician assistant licensed under chapter 19 of this title;
(H) Licensed Professional Counselors licensed under chapter 22 of this title;
(I) Marital and Family Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and
(J) Clinical Pastoral Therapists licensed under chapter 22 of this title; and
(3) "Special volunteer license" means a license awarded to a medical practitioner whose sole practice is rendering professional services without remuneration in a free health clinic at a specified site or setting. The practitioner must have been previously issued a license to practice in this state or another state and the practitioner must never have been the subject of disciplinary action. The licensing authority shall require an application and relevant documentation before issuing the special volunteer license. No fee may be charged for an application or issuance of the special license.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1035,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 2004, ch. 579, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-135 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-135
Licensed veterinary technicians - Unauthorized practice
Status: in_force

(a) The board shall examine and license veterinary technicians and has the same authority in the regulation, examination and qualification of licensed veterinary technicians as it has under this chapter for the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinarians. (b) Any licensed veterinarian may assign to a licensed veterinary technician regularly employed by the veterinarian any task or procedure to be performed for which the veterinarian exercises responsible supervision and full responsibility except those procedures requiring professional judgment or skill as prescribed by board rule. (c) The fees provided in this chapter pertaining to applications, licensing and renewal for veterinarians also apply to licensed veterinary technicians. (d) It is a Class B misdemeanor for any person to use in connection with the person's name any designation intending to imply that the person is a veterinary technician or a licensed veterinary technician unless the person meets the requirements contained in this chapter. (e) The board may, on its own motion, cause to be investigated any report indicating that a licensed veterinary technician is or may be in violation of this chapter. Any person who in good faith reports to the board any information that a licensed veterinary technician is or may be in violation of any provisions of this chapter is not subject to suit for civil damages as a result thereof. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 440, s 2, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 688, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-1235; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 18; 1989, ch. 591, § 112; 1999, ch. 375, §§ 5, 7, 9 - 11.
(a) The board shall examine and license veterinary technicians and has the same authority in the regulation, examination and qualification of licensed veterinary technicians as it has under this chapter for the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinarians.
(b) Any licensed veterinarian may assign to a licensed veterinary technician regularly employed by the veterinarian any task or procedure to be performed for which the veterinarian exercises responsible supervision and full responsibility except those procedures requiring professional judgment or skill as prescribed by board rule.
(c) The fees provided in this chapter pertaining to applications, licensing and renewal for veterinarians also apply to licensed veterinary technicians.
(d) It is a Class B misdemeanor for any person to use in connection with the person's name any designation intending to imply that the person is a veterinary technician or a licensed veterinary technician unless the person meets the requirements contained in this chapter.
(e) The board may, on its own motion, cause to be investigated any report indicating that a licensed veterinary technician is or may be in violation of this chapter. Any person who in good faith reports to the board any information that a licensed veterinary technician is or may be in violation of any provisions of this chapter is not subject to suit for civil damages as a result thereof.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 440, s 2, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 688, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-1235; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 18; 1989, ch. 591, § 112; 1999, ch. 375, §§ 5, 7, 9 - 11.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-23-110 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 23 / Section 63-23-110
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The board is authorized to promulgate, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, such rules as are necessary to implement this chapter. Acts 1984, ch. 1003, § 1; T.C.A. § 63-23-108 ; Acts 2008 , ch. 1016, § 1.
The board is authorized to promulgate, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, such rules as are necessary to implement this chapter.
Acts 1984, ch. 1003, § 1; T.C.A. § 63-23-108 ; Acts 2008 , ch. 1016, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1207 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1207
Violations
Status: in_force

The appropriate state licensing board having jurisdiction over any practitioner who may request or provide cytopathology services may revoke, suspend or deny renewal of the license of any practitioner who violates this part. Acts 2006, ch. 1003, § 8.
The appropriate state licensing board having jurisdiction over any practitioner who may request or provide cytopathology services may revoke, suspend or deny renewal of the license of any practitioner who violates this part.
Acts 2006, ch. 1003, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-227 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-227
Cancellation of license upon conviction
Status: in_force

The license of any physician or surgeon who is convicted of a violation of § 63-6-225 may, upon the first conviction, and shall, upon any subsequent conviction, be adjudged to be cancelled and annulled by the court before which the conviction may be and, without further trial or hearing, the physician or surgeon shall not thereafter again be admitted to practice medicine or surgery within this state. Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 3.
The license of any physician or surgeon who is convicted of a violation of § 63-6-225 may, upon the first conviction, and shall, upon any subsequent conviction, be adjudged to be cancelled and annulled by the court before which the conviction may be and, without further trial or hearing, the physician or surgeon shall not thereafter again be admitted to practice medicine or surgery within this state.
Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-119 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-119
Penalty for unlicensed practice
Status: in_force

Any person who practices or attempts to practice veterinary medicine in this state and makes a charge for the practice without having complied with this chapter commits a Class B misdemeanor for each instance of such practice. Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 19; T.C.A., § 63-1219; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 112.
Any person who practices or attempts to practice veterinary medicine in this state and makes a charge for the practice without having complied with this chapter commits a Class B misdemeanor for each instance of such practice.
Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 19; T.C.A., § 63-1219; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 112.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-9-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 9 / Section 63-9-109
Penalties
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who practices or pretends or attempts to practice or use the science or system of osteopathic medicine in treating diseases of the human body or any person who buys, sells or fraudulently obtains any diploma, certificate, license or record of registration to practice osteopathic medicine illegally obtained or signed or issued unlawfully or under fraudulent representation or who uses in any of the forms or letters, "osteopathy," "osteopath," "osteopathist," "diplomate in osteopathy," "D.O.," "osteopathic physician," "doctor of osteopathy," or any other title or letters, either alone or with other qualifying words or phrases, under such circumstances as to induce the belief that the person who uses such term is engaged in the practice of osteopathic medicine without having complied with this chapter commits a Class B misdemeanor. (b) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit any lawfully qualified osteopathic physician or surgeon in any other state meeting a registered osteopathic practitioner in the state of Tennessee for consultation. Acts 1905, ch. 255, § 6; Shan., § 3654a9; Code 1932, § 7008; Acts 1939, ch. 150, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 7008; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-910; Acts 1984, ch. 937, §42; 1989, ch. 591, § 112; 1994, ch. 901, § 6.
(a) Any person who practices or pretends or attempts to practice or use the science or system of osteopathic medicine in treating diseases of the human body or any person who buys, sells or fraudulently obtains any diploma, certificate, license or record of registration to practice osteopathic medicine illegally obtained or signed or issued unlawfully or under fraudulent representation or who uses in any of the forms or letters, "osteopathy," "osteopath," "osteopathist," "diplomate in osteopathy," "D.O.," "osteopathic physician," "doctor of osteopathy," or any other title or letters, either alone or with other qualifying words or phrases, under such circumstances as to induce the belief that the person who uses such term is engaged in the practice of osteopathic medicine without having complied with this chapter commits a Class B misdemeanor.
(b) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit any lawfully qualified osteopathic physician or surgeon in any other state meeting a registered osteopathic practitioner in the state of Tennessee for consultation.
Acts 1905, ch. 255, § 6; Shan., § 3654a9; Code 1932, § 7008; Acts 1939, ch. 150, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 13; C. Supp. 1950, § 7008; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-910; Acts 1984, ch. 937, §42; 1989, ch. 591, § 112; 1994, ch. 901, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-226 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-226
Additional penalty - Suit for recovery
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who violates § 63-6-225 shall also forfeit and pay treble the value of the fee or compensation to the person applying the same or against whom the fee may be charged, or from whom it may have been demanded, and if the party entitled to sue does not sue within two (2) years after the fee or compensation has been paid or demanded, then the state shall have the right to sue for and recover such treble amount, which shall, upon recovery, be paid one-half (1/2) into the state treasury and one-half (1/2) to the officer prosecuting the suit. (b) It is the duty of the attorney general and reporter, or of the district attorney general of any county in which service of process may be had upon the person liable, to institute in the name of the state all suits necessary for the recovery of the sum of money. Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 3.
(a) Any person who violates § 63-6-225 shall also forfeit and pay treble the value of the fee or compensation to the person applying the same or against whom the fee may be charged, or from whom it may have been demanded, and if the party entitled to sue does not sue within two (2) years after the fee or compensation has been paid or demanded, then the state shall have the right to sue for and recover such treble amount, which shall, upon recovery, be paid one-half (1/2) into the state treasury and one-half (1/2) to the officer prosecuting the suit.
(b) It is the duty of the attorney general and reporter, or of the district attorney general of any county in which service of process may be had upon the person liable, to institute in the name of the state all suits necessary for the recovery of the sum of money.
Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-117 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-117
Waiver of examination
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner may grant a waiver of examination; provided, that the applicant: (1) Provides adequate evidence that an electrology license was acquired after passing an electrology examination in another state, and that the examination was substantially equivalent to the examination for which the applicant seeks waiver in this state; (2) Became licensed in another state after meeting other requirements that are substantially equivalent to the requirements of this chapter; (3) Pays the appropriate application and license fees; and (4) Submits the required application form for licensing. (b) The commissioner may grant a waiver of examination for an electrology instructor license; provided, that the applicant: (1) Furnishes proof that the applicant has met the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) and (2); (2) Has filed an application for a license; and (3) Has paid the required license fee. (c) The commissioner or a designee of the commissioner shall have the discretion to grant a waiver of examination to an applicant; provided, that a written explanation of the waiver is provided to the applicant and made available to persons requesting a copy of the explanation. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 19; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-217; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 25, 39.
(a) The commissioner may grant a waiver of examination; provided, that the applicant: (1) Provides adequate evidence that an electrology license was acquired after passing an electrology examination in another state, and that the examination was substantially equivalent to the examination for which the applicant seeks waiver in this state; (2) Became licensed in another state after meeting other requirements that are substantially equivalent to the requirements of this chapter; (3) Pays the appropriate application and license fees; and (4) Submits the required application form for licensing.
(1) Provides adequate evidence that an electrology license was acquired after passing an electrology examination in another state, and that the examination was substantially equivalent to the examination for which the applicant seeks waiver in this state;
(2) Became licensed in another state after meeting other requirements that are substantially equivalent to the requirements of this chapter;
(3) Pays the appropriate application and license fees; and
(4) Submits the required application form for licensing.
(b) The commissioner may grant a waiver of examination for an electrology instructor license; provided, that the applicant: (1) Furnishes proof that the applicant has met the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) and (2); (2) Has filed an application for a license; and (3) Has paid the required license fee.
(1) Furnishes proof that the applicant has met the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) and (2);
(2) Has filed an application for a license; and
(3) Has paid the required license fee.
(c) The commissioner or a designee of the commissioner shall have the discretion to grant a waiver of examination to an applicant; provided, that a written explanation of the waiver is provided to the applicant and made available to persons requesting a copy of the explanation.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 19; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-217; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 25, 39.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-102 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-102
Purpose of chapter
Status: in_force

It is hereby declared that the practice of veterinary medicine is a privilege that is granted by legislative authority in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare. To protect the public from being misled by incompetent, unscrupulous and unauthorized practitioners and from unprofessional or illegal practices by persons licensed to practice veterinary medicine, this chapter is enacted in the interest of the health, safety and welfare of the animal population and the citizens of Tennessee. Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-1202; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 1.
It is hereby declared that the practice of veterinary medicine is a privilege that is granted by legislative authority in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare. To protect the public from being misled by incompetent, unscrupulous and unauthorized practitioners and from unprofessional or illegal practices by persons licensed to practice veterinary medicine, this chapter is enacted in the interest of the health, safety and welfare of the animal population and the citizens of Tennessee.
Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-1202; Acts 1983, ch. 57, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-209 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-209
Examination
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the payment of an examination fee as set by the council, an applicant for a license who is notified by the council that the applicant has fulfilled the requirements of § 63-17-207 shall appear at a time, place and before such persons as the council may designate to be examined by written and practical tests in order to demonstrate that such applicant is qualified to practice the fitting of hearing instruments. (b) The council shall give at least one (1) examination of the type prescribed in this section each year and such additional examinations as the volume of applications may make appropriate. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 811, s 5, eff. 4/14/2016. Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 11.
(a) Upon the payment of an examination fee as set by the council, an applicant for a license who is notified by the council that the applicant has fulfilled the requirements of § 63-17-207 shall appear at a time, place and before such persons as the council may designate to be examined by written and practical tests in order to demonstrate that such applicant is qualified to practice the fitting of hearing instruments.
(b) The council shall give at least one (1) examination of the type prescribed in this section each year and such additional examinations as the volume of applications may make appropriate.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 811, s 5, eff. 4/14/2016.
Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 11.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-303 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-303
Qualifications
Status: in_force

(a) Each pharmacist member of the board appointed on or after July 1, 2023, must, at the time of their appointment: (1) Have been a resident of this state for no less than five (5) years; (2) Must be a graduate of a recognized school or college of pharmacy; (3) Be licensed and in good standing to engage in the practice of pharmacy in this state; (4) Be actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy, as defined in § 63-10-204 , in this state; and (5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience in the practice of pharmacy providing patient care services after licensure. (b) Each registered pharmacy technician member of the board must, at the time of their appointment: (1) Have been a resident of this state for not less than five (5) years; (2) Be currently licensed and in good standing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state; (3) Be actively practicing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state; (4) Be a certified pharmacy technician as defined by board rules; and (5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience as a pharmacy technician after registration. (c) (1) Each consumer member of the board must, at the time of their appointment: (A) Be a current resident of this state for at least five (5) years; and (B) Not be a licensed healthcare professional. (2) The consumer member must not own or have a financial or other interest in any healthcare facility or healthcare business during the consumer's term on the board. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 457, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 953, s 1, eff. 4/29/2022. Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 10; T.C.A. § 63-10-503 ; Acts 2007 , ch. 407, § 9.
(a) Each pharmacist member of the board appointed on or after July 1, 2023, must, at the time of their appointment: (1) Have been a resident of this state for no less than five (5) years; (2) Must be a graduate of a recognized school or college of pharmacy; (3) Be licensed and in good standing to engage in the practice of pharmacy in this state; (4) Be actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy, as defined in § 63-10-204 , in this state; and (5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience in the practice of pharmacy providing patient care services after licensure.
(1) Have been a resident of this state for no less than five (5) years;
(2) Must be a graduate of a recognized school or college of pharmacy;
(3) Be licensed and in good standing to engage in the practice of pharmacy in this state;
(4) Be actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy, as defined in § 63-10-204 , in this state; and
(5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience in the practice of pharmacy providing patient care services after licensure.
(b) Each registered pharmacy technician member of the board must, at the time of their appointment: (1) Have been a resident of this state for not less than five (5) years; (2) Be currently licensed and in good standing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state; (3) Be actively practicing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state; (4) Be a certified pharmacy technician as defined by board rules; and (5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience as a pharmacy technician after registration.
(1) Have been a resident of this state for not less than five (5) years;
(2) Be currently licensed and in good standing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state;
(3) Be actively practicing as a registered pharmacy technician in this state;
(4) Be a certified pharmacy technician as defined by board rules; and
(5) Have at least five (5) consecutive years of experience as a pharmacy technician after registration.
(c) (1) Each consumer member of the board must, at the time of their appointment: (A) Be a current resident of this state for at least five (5) years; and (B) Not be a licensed healthcare professional. (2) The consumer member must not own or have a financial or other interest in any healthcare facility or healthcare business during the consumer's term on the board.
(1) Each consumer member of the board must, at the time of their appointment: (A) Be a current resident of this state for at least five (5) years; and (B) Not be a licensed healthcare professional.
(A) Be a current resident of this state for at least five (5) years; and
(B) Not be a licensed healthcare professional.
(2) The consumer member must not own or have a financial or other interest in any healthcare facility or healthcare business during the consumer's term on the board.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 457, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 953, s 1, eff. 4/29/2022.
Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 10; T.C.A. § 63-10-503 ; Acts 2007 , ch. 407, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-18-111 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 18 / Section 63-18-111
Authorization to promulgate rules, regulations and fees
Status: in_force

(a) The board is hereby authorized to promulgate, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, such rules and regulations as are necessary to implement this chapter. (b) The board may adopt reasonable rules and regulations regarding personal cleanliness of massage therapists and the sanitary condition of towels, linens, creams, lotions, oils and other materials, facilities and equipment used in the practice of massage. (c) All fees for licensure, renewal of licensure and all other related matters shall be set by the board. (d) All education and other requirements for licensure in this chapter shall be set by the board. (e) The board may adopt rules and regulations for ethics. (f) All continuing education and other requirements for renewal of licensure not enumerated in this chapter shall be set by the board. (g) The board is authorized to set an application fee for all continuing education courses submitted to the board for approval. Acts 1995, ch. 480, § 12; 1996, ch. 1059, § 3; T.C.A. §63-18-211; Acts 2008 , ch. 801, § 3.
(a) The board is hereby authorized to promulgate, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, such rules and regulations as are necessary to implement this chapter.
(b) The board may adopt reasonable rules and regulations regarding personal cleanliness of massage therapists and the sanitary condition of towels, linens, creams, lotions, oils and other materials, facilities and equipment used in the practice of massage.
(c) All fees for licensure, renewal of licensure and all other related matters shall be set by the board.
(d) All education and other requirements for licensure in this chapter shall be set by the board.
(e) The board may adopt rules and regulations for ethics.
(f) All continuing education and other requirements for renewal of licensure not enumerated in this chapter shall be set by the board.
(g) The board is authorized to set an application fee for all continuing education courses submitted to the board for approval.
Acts 1995, ch. 480, § 12; 1996, ch. 1059, § 3; T.C.A. §63-18-211; Acts 2008 , ch. 801, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-28-105 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 28 / Section 63-28-105
Application - Qualification for examination
Status: in_force

(a) A candidate for a license to practice as a licensed clinical perfusionist shall submit an application accompanied by the required fees. The committee shall prescribe the form of the application and the dates by which applications and fees must be received. (b) To qualify for the licensing examination, the applicant shall have successfully completed a perfusion education program approved by the committee. In approving perfusion education programs necessary for qualification for licensing examination, the committee shall approve only a program that has education standards established by the accreditation committee for perfusion education and approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or its successor. Acts 1999, ch. 239, § 5.
(a) A candidate for a license to practice as a licensed clinical perfusionist shall submit an application accompanied by the required fees. The committee shall prescribe the form of the application and the dates by which applications and fees must be received.
(b) To qualify for the licensing examination, the applicant shall have successfully completed a perfusion education program approved by the committee. In approving perfusion education programs necessary for qualification for licensing examination, the committee shall approve only a program that has education standards established by the accreditation committee for perfusion education and approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or its successor.
Acts 1999, ch. 239, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-11-222 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 11 / Section 63-11-222
Psychologists licensed as of June 30, 1992 - Health service provider designation
Status: in_force

(a) Any psychologist licensed under this chapter as a school, clinical or counseling psychologist as of June 30, 1992, shall be designated by the board as a health service provider; provided, that such person submits an application to the board for such designation by July 1, 1993. Any psychologist licensed under this chapter other than as a school, clinical or counseling psychologist as of June 30, 1992, who documents to the satisfaction of the board that such person has been engaged in providing health services as a psychologist for a minimum of two (2) years shall be designated by the board as a health service provider; provided, that application for such designation is submitted to the board by July 1, 1993. (b) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (a) or any other law to the contrary, the board shall designate as a health service provider any person who meets the following criteria: (1) Holds a Ph.D. in education from an accredited college or university; (2) Possesses at least three thousand nine hundred (3,900) hours of clinical experience supervised by licensed clinical and counseling psychologists at an accredited school of medicine; (3) Is a national board certified counselor; (4) Has been practicing in Tennessee as a professional counselor for a period of six (6) or more years; (5) Was licensed by the board as a psychologist on July 15, 1992, with a declared specialty area other than school, clinical or counseling psychology; and (6) Has submitted to the board an application for such designation by December 31, 1994. Acts 1992, ch. 991, § 4; 1995, ch. 104, § 1.
(a) Any psychologist licensed under this chapter as a school, clinical or counseling psychologist as of June 30, 1992, shall be designated by the board as a health service provider; provided, that such person submits an application to the board for such designation by July 1, 1993. Any psychologist licensed under this chapter other than as a school, clinical or counseling psychologist as of June 30, 1992, who documents to the satisfaction of the board that such person has been engaged in providing health services as a psychologist for a minimum of two (2) years shall be designated by the board as a health service provider; provided, that application for such designation is submitted to the board by July 1, 1993.
(b) Notwithstanding any provision of subsection (a) or any other law to the contrary, the board shall designate as a health service provider any person who meets the following criteria: (1) Holds a Ph.D. in education from an accredited college or university; (2) Possesses at least three thousand nine hundred (3,900) hours of clinical experience supervised by licensed clinical and counseling psychologists at an accredited school of medicine; (3) Is a national board certified counselor; (4) Has been practicing in Tennessee as a professional counselor for a period of six (6) or more years; (5) Was licensed by the board as a psychologist on July 15, 1992, with a declared specialty area other than school, clinical or counseling psychology; and (6) Has submitted to the board an application for such designation by December 31, 1994.
(1) Holds a Ph.D. in education from an accredited college or university;
(2) Possesses at least three thousand nine hundred (3,900) hours of clinical experience supervised by licensed clinical and counseling psychologists at an accredited school of medicine;
(3) Is a national board certified counselor;
(4) Has been practicing in Tennessee as a professional counselor for a period of six (6) or more years;
(5) Was licensed by the board as a psychologist on July 15, 1992, with a declared specialty area other than school, clinical or counseling psychology; and
(6) Has submitted to the board an application for such designation by December 31, 1994.
Acts 1992, ch. 991, § 4; 1995, ch. 104, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-124 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-124
Administrative procedures
Status: in_force

All proceedings shall be in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 26; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., § 62-34-224.
All proceedings shall be in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 26; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., § 62-34-224.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-319 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-319
Annual report by medical director of pain management clinic
Status: in_force

(a) The medical director of each pain management clinic shall report annually to the department of health, on a form promulgated by the department, the following: (1) The number of physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses who are working in the clinic for each month; (2) The number of patients seen by the clinic for each month and the number receiving treatment for chronic nonmalignant pain; (3) Whether the pain management clinic is part of or associated with a hospital; and (4) Any other information requested by the department. (b) The department is authorized to promulgate a reporting form concerning such information as the commissioner may reasonably require, and establish the reporting period and dates for submission. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1033,s 5, eff. 7/1/2017.
(a) The medical director of each pain management clinic shall report annually to the department of health, on a form promulgated by the department, the following: (1) The number of physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses who are working in the clinic for each month; (2) The number of patients seen by the clinic for each month and the number receiving treatment for chronic nonmalignant pain; (3) Whether the pain management clinic is part of or associated with a hospital; and (4) Any other information requested by the department.
(1) The number of physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses who are working in the clinic for each month;
(2) The number of patients seen by the clinic for each month and the number receiving treatment for chronic nonmalignant pain;
(3) Whether the pain management clinic is part of or associated with a hospital; and
(4) Any other information requested by the department.
(b) The department is authorized to promulgate a reporting form concerning such information as the commissioner may reasonably require, and establish the reporting period and dates for submission.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1033,s 5, eff. 7/1/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-224 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-224
Cerumen management course
Status: in_force

(a) A licensed hearing instrument specialist who engages in cerumen management under § 63-17-223 , must have completed a cerumen management course approved by the International Hearing Society, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, or another organization approved by the council for licensing hearing instrument specialists. The course must: (1) Be overseen by a physician, preferably an otolaryngologist; (2) Consist of at least six (6) hours of a participant practicing removing cerumen from an ear canal model using a variety of safe techniques; and (3) Result in a certificate of completion and attestation of competence signed by the overseeing physician. (b) The council for licensing hearing instrument specialists is authorized to promulgate rules to effectuate the requirements of the course outlined in this section only after consultation with the board of medical examiners established at § 63-6-101 . The rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 622, s 4, eff. 7/1/2022.
(a) A licensed hearing instrument specialist who engages in cerumen management under § 63-17-223 , must have completed a cerumen management course approved by the International Hearing Society, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, or another organization approved by the council for licensing hearing instrument specialists. The course must: (1) Be overseen by a physician, preferably an otolaryngologist; (2) Consist of at least six (6) hours of a participant practicing removing cerumen from an ear canal model using a variety of safe techniques; and (3) Result in a certificate of completion and attestation of competence signed by the overseeing physician.
(1) Be overseen by a physician, preferably an otolaryngologist;
(2) Consist of at least six (6) hours of a participant practicing removing cerumen from an ear canal model using a variety of safe techniques; and
(3) Result in a certificate of completion and attestation of competence signed by the overseeing physician.
(b) The council for licensing hearing instrument specialists is authorized to promulgate rules to effectuate the requirements of the course outlined in this section only after consultation with the board of medical examiners established at § 63-6-101 . The rules must be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 622, s 4, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-3-106 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 3 / Section 63-3-106
General powers of board
Status: in_force

The board has the powers and duties, in addition to powers and duties granted to or imposed upon it by the other sections of this chapter, to: (1) Adopt and promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary to govern its proceedings and carry into effect the purpose of this chapter; (2) Conduct examinations to ascertain the qualifications and fitness of applicants for a license to practice podiatry in this state; (3) Provide standards by which podiatry schools and colleges shall be approved; (4) Direct the division to issue a license for applicants who successfully pass the examination for the practice of podiatry; (5) Conduct hearings, to revoke or suspend any license or certificate under the authority of this chapter or any previous laws authorizing the holder thereof to practice podiatry for violations by a licensee of any of the provisions of this chapter or any rule or regulation of the board properly adopted and promulgated by the board; and (6) Sponsor, conduct or approve such educational programs as are necessary to carry out and make effective this chapter. Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.2; impl. am. Acts 1971, ch. 161, § 3; Acts 1971, ch. 188, §§ 1, 5; 1973, ch. 393, § 5; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-306; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 5.
The board has the powers and duties, in addition to powers and duties granted to or imposed upon it by the other sections of this chapter, to:
(1) Adopt and promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary to govern its proceedings and carry into effect the purpose of this chapter;
(2) Conduct examinations to ascertain the qualifications and fitness of applicants for a license to practice podiatry in this state;
(3) Provide standards by which podiatry schools and colleges shall be approved;
(4) Direct the division to issue a license for applicants who successfully pass the examination for the practice of podiatry;
(5) Conduct hearings, to revoke or suspend any license or certificate under the authority of this chapter or any previous laws authorizing the holder thereof to practice podiatry for violations by a licensee of any of the provisions of this chapter or any rule or regulation of the board properly adopted and promulgated by the board; and
(6) Sponsor, conduct or approve such educational programs as are necessary to carry out and make effective this chapter.
Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.2; impl. am. Acts 1971, ch. 161, § 3; Acts 1971, ch. 188, §§ 1, 5; 1973, ch. 393, § 5; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-306; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-109
Setting of fees
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall set fees for applications, examinations, renewals, reciprocity, school licensure and other related matters. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 11; 1989, ch. 523, § 213; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-209; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 9.
The commissioner shall set fees for applications, examinations, renewals, reciprocity, school licensure and other related matters.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 11; 1989, ch. 523, § 213; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-209; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-5-113 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 5 / Section 63-5-113
Examination and certification of specialists
Status: in_force

(a) Any dentist duly licensed in this state who has completed a minimum of two (2) years of graduate education in a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation or the equivalent thereof in a specialty branch of dentistry or who has otherwise met the requirements of the rules promulgated by the board may apply for a certificate as a specialist. (b) The board may recognize specialty certification of those dentists licensed through the licensure criteria provisions of § 63-5-110 , if the requirements for certification in the original state are substantially equivalent to those requirements in this state. (c) No one shall offer or conduct any school, course, or program that grants credentialed status or that graduates individuals for credentialed status, or its equivalent, in any particular branch of dentistry or any specific area of the practice of dentistry that is not listed as a recognized specialty in § 63-5-112 . Dental, dental hygiene, and dental assisting colleges, schools, or programs in this state that are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation are exempt from this subsection (c). Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 1, eff. 4/22/2015. Acts 1957, ch. 32, § 14; 1969, ch. 29, § 6; 1978, ch. 824, § 10; 1981, ch. 99, § 9; T.C.A., § 63-542; Acts 1988, ch. 635, §§12, 13; 1989, ch. 523, §12; 1997 , ch. 497, § 1; 2004, ch. 720, § 1.
(a) Any dentist duly licensed in this state who has completed a minimum of two (2) years of graduate education in a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation or the equivalent thereof in a specialty branch of dentistry or who has otherwise met the requirements of the rules promulgated by the board may apply for a certificate as a specialist.
(b) The board may recognize specialty certification of those dentists licensed through the licensure criteria provisions of § 63-5-110 , if the requirements for certification in the original state are substantially equivalent to those requirements in this state.
(c) No one shall offer or conduct any school, course, or program that grants credentialed status or that graduates individuals for credentialed status, or its equivalent, in any particular branch of dentistry or any specific area of the practice of dentistry that is not listed as a recognized specialty in § 63-5-112 . Dental, dental hygiene, and dental assisting colleges, schools, or programs in this state that are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation are exempt from this subsection (c).
Amended by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 1, eff. 4/22/2015.
Acts 1957, ch. 32, § 14; 1969, ch. 29, § 6; 1978, ch. 824, § 10; 1981, ch. 99, § 9; T.C.A., § 63-542; Acts 1988, ch. 635, §§12, 13; 1989, ch. 523, §12; 1997 , ch. 497, § 1; 2004, ch. 720, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-16-113 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 16 / Section 63-16-113
Disposition of fines and receipts - Budgetary allotments
Status: in_force

(a) All fines for the offenses of the violation of this chapter and fees received from all sources and purposes shall be paid to the board and shall become part of its receipts. All moneys received by the board shall be paid into the general fund of the state. (b) The commissioner of finance and administration shall make such allotments out of the general fund as may be necessary for the implementation of this chapter. Such allotments shall be disbursed under the general budgetary laws of Tennessee. Acts 1970, ch. 565, § 13; T.C.A., § 63-1613; modified.
(a) All fines for the offenses of the violation of this chapter and fees received from all sources and purposes shall be paid to the board and shall become part of its receipts. All moneys received by the board shall be paid into the general fund of the state.
(b) The commissioner of finance and administration shall make such allotments out of the general fund as may be necessary for the implementation of this chapter. Such allotments shall be disbursed under the general budgetary laws of Tennessee.
Acts 1970, ch. 565, § 13; T.C.A., § 63-1613; modified.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-114 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-114
Reexamination
Status: in_force

(a) If a candidate fails a part or parts of an examination, the candidate may retake a failed section of the examination or retake a subsequent examination, after paying the reexamination fee and submitting the commissioner-approved form for reexamination at least thirty (30) days prior to reexamination date. (b) If, after two (2) attempts, the examination is not passed, the complete examination may be taken again only after the candidate: (1) Completes an additional electrolysis education program that the commissioner recommends; and (2) Pays the full examination fee. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 16; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-214; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 22, 38.
(a) If a candidate fails a part or parts of an examination, the candidate may retake a failed section of the examination or retake a subsequent examination, after paying the reexamination fee and submitting the commissioner-approved form for reexamination at least thirty (30) days prior to reexamination date.
(b) If, after two (2) attempts, the examination is not passed, the complete examination may be taken again only after the candidate: (1) Completes an additional electrolysis education program that the commissioner recommends; and (2) Pays the full examination fee.
(1) Completes an additional electrolysis education program that the commissioner recommends; and
(2) Pays the full examination fee.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 16; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-214; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 22, 38.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-8-127 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 8 / Section 63-8-127
Prohibition against requirement of minimum purchase of ophthalmic materials as a condition of participation in vision or health care plan
Status: in_force

(a) No person shall require an optometrist to purchase a minimum quantity or minimum dollar amount of a specified brand of ophthalmic materials in order to participate as a provider in a vision or other health care plan. (b) An optometrist may file an action in the chancery court of the county in which the optometrist's office is located to enjoin a violation of this section. If successful in establishing a violation, the optometrist may recover court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. Acts 2005, ch. 123, § 1.
(a) No person shall require an optometrist to purchase a minimum quantity or minimum dollar amount of a specified brand of ophthalmic materials in order to participate as a provider in a vision or other health care plan.
(b) An optometrist may file an action in the chancery court of the county in which the optometrist's office is located to enjoin a violation of this section. If successful in establishing a violation, the optometrist may recover court costs and reasonable attorney's fees.
Acts 2005, ch. 123, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-115 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-115
Licensing without examination
Status: in_force

(a) Without the required examination, the commissioner shall approve as a licensed electrologist any person meeting the provisions of § 63-26-111(1)-(3), (6) and (7) and who has actively been engaged in the practice of electrology in this state for a period of six (6) months or more prior to making application for licensure. (b) Payment of the scheduled registration fee to the commissioner shall accompany an application. (c) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(2), no electrologist shall be registered by the commissioner to practice without examination, unless a recognized out-of-state license is valid and acceptable. (2) The commissioner is authorized to register an electrologist to practice in this state without taking the required examination, even if an out-of-state license has not been issued, to a person who provides proof satisfactory to the commissioner that: (A) The person requesting a license has practiced electrology five (5) years or more in a state that does not require a license for practice; and (B) The person is a certified electrologist; or (C) The person requesting a license meets requirements as determined by rules adopted by the commissioner. (d) The commissioner shall require satisfactory documentation of any prior continuous electrolysis practice. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 17; 1989, ch. 360, § 65; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., § 62-34-215; Acts 2006, ch. 742, §1; 2009 , ch. 456, § 23.
(a) Without the required examination, the commissioner shall approve as a licensed electrologist any person meeting the provisions of § 63-26-111(1)-(3), (6) and (7) and who has actively been engaged in the practice of electrology in this state for a period of six (6) months or more prior to making application for licensure.
(b) Payment of the scheduled registration fee to the commissioner shall accompany an application.
(c) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(2), no electrologist shall be registered by the commissioner to practice without examination, unless a recognized out-of-state license is valid and acceptable. (2) The commissioner is authorized to register an electrologist to practice in this state without taking the required examination, even if an out-of-state license has not been issued, to a person who provides proof satisfactory to the commissioner that: (A) The person requesting a license has practiced electrology five (5) years or more in a state that does not require a license for practice; and (B) The person is a certified electrologist; or (C) The person requesting a license meets requirements as determined by rules adopted by the commissioner.
(1) Except as provided in subdivision (c)(2), no electrologist shall be registered by the commissioner to practice without examination, unless a recognized out-of-state license is valid and acceptable.
(2) The commissioner is authorized to register an electrologist to practice in this state without taking the required examination, even if an out-of-state license has not been issued, to a person who provides proof satisfactory to the commissioner that: (A) The person requesting a license has practiced electrology five (5) years or more in a state that does not require a license for practice; and (B) The person is a certified electrologist; or (C) The person requesting a license meets requirements as determined by rules adopted by the commissioner.
(A) The person requesting a license has practiced electrology five (5) years or more in a state that does not require a license for practice; and
(B) The person is a certified electrologist; or
(C) The person requesting a license meets requirements as determined by rules adopted by the commissioner.
(d) The commissioner shall require satisfactory documentation of any prior continuous electrolysis practice.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 17; 1989, ch. 360, § 65; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., § 62-34-215; Acts 2006, ch. 742, §1; 2009 , ch. 456, § 23.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-32-118 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 32 / Section 63-32-118
Violations
Status: in_force

Failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter by a person or entity required to submit or report information as required by this chapter constitutes a violation of the relevant practice or licensing statute and subjects the violator to appropriate enforcement or disciplinary action. Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 18.
Failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter by a person or entity required to submit or report information as required by this chapter constitutes a violation of the relevant practice or licensing statute and subjects the violator to appropriate enforcement or disciplinary action.
Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 18.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-120 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-120
Assistance of district attorneys general
Status: in_force

The board at all times has the power to call upon the district attorneys general for the state in the various districts to assist the board. It is hereby declared to be the duty of all district attorneys general throughout the state to assist the board, upon its request, in any suit for injunction or prosecution instituted by the board without charge or additional compensation to the district attorneys general. Acts 1973, ch. 93, § 20; T.C.A., § 63-1720.
The board at all times has the power to call upon the district attorneys general for the state in the various districts to assist the board. It is hereby declared to be the duty of all district attorneys general throughout the state to assist the board, upon its request, in any suit for injunction or prosecution instituted by the board without charge or additional compensation to the district attorneys general.
Acts 1973, ch. 93, § 20; T.C.A., § 63-1720.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-131 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-131
Director - Appointment
Status: in_force

The commissioner of health shall appoint a director of the division of health related boards provided for in this section and §§ 63-1-132 , 63-1-133 , and 68-1-101 . Acts 1971, ch. 81, § 5; T.C.A., §§ 53-121, 68-1-601; Acts 2010 , ch. 1043, § 6.
The commissioner of health shall appoint a director of the division of health related boards provided for in this section and §§ 63-1-132 , 63-1-133 , and 68-1-101 .
Acts 1971, ch. 81, § 5; T.C.A., §§ 53-121, 68-1-601; Acts 2010 , ch. 1043, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-121 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-121
Enjoining violations
Status: in_force

(a) The division, in addition to the powers and duties expressed in this chapter with respect to the denial of a license, denial of certificate of registration and suspension or revocation of a license, is empowered to petition any circuit or chancery court having jurisdiction of any person within this state who is practicing without a license or to whom a license has been denied, or to whom a certificate of registration has been denied or whose license has been suspended or revoked by action of the division, to enjoin such person from continuing to practice the healing arts, or any branch thereof, within this state. (b) Jurisdiction is conferred upon the circuit and chancery courts of this state to hear and determine all such causes as equity causes and exercise full and complete jurisdiction in such injunctive proceedings; but nothing in this section shall be construed as conferring criminal jurisdiction upon any court not now possessing such criminal jurisdiction, nor shall any such court, as an incident to the injunctive proceedings authorized in this section, have the power to assess the criminal penalties set out in this chapter. Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.12 (Williams, § 6917.29); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-125; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 77; T.C.A., § 63-1-125.
(a) The division, in addition to the powers and duties expressed in this chapter with respect to the denial of a license, denial of certificate of registration and suspension or revocation of a license, is empowered to petition any circuit or chancery court having jurisdiction of any person within this state who is practicing without a license or to whom a license has been denied, or to whom a certificate of registration has been denied or whose license has been suspended or revoked by action of the division, to enjoin such person from continuing to practice the healing arts, or any branch thereof, within this state.
(b) Jurisdiction is conferred upon the circuit and chancery courts of this state to hear and determine all such causes as equity causes and exercise full and complete jurisdiction in such injunctive proceedings; but nothing in this section shall be construed as conferring criminal jurisdiction upon any court not now possessing such criminal jurisdiction, nor shall any such court, as an incident to the injunctive proceedings authorized in this section, have the power to assess the criminal penalties set out in this chapter.
Acts 1947, ch. 9, § 12; C. Supp. 1950, § 6907.12 (Williams, § 6917.29); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-125; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 77; T.C.A., § 63-1-125.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-406 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-406
Part not applicable to review of physician's conduct
Status: in_force

In no event, however, shall the protections provided in this part apply to any type of review by a peer review committee or pharmacist review committee, as defined in this chapter, related to any acts, conduct or professional services rendered by physicians under chapter 6 or 9 of this title. A peer review committee or pharmacist review committee may convey information to licensed physicians or physician licensing boards. Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 22; T.C.A. § 63-10-606.
In no event, however, shall the protections provided in this part apply to any type of review by a peer review committee or pharmacist review committee, as defined in this chapter, related to any acts, conduct or professional services rendered by physicians under chapter 6 or 9 of this title. A peer review committee or pharmacist review committee may convey information to licensed physicians or physician licensing boards.
Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 22; T.C.A. § 63-10-606.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-145 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-145
Rules and regulations regarding advertisement pertaining to board certification and specialty
Status: in_force

Consistent with this title, the boards of the respective branches of the healing arts shall promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, and this title to regulate the nature, manner, content and extent of advertising and the use of titles by practitioners of such healing arts who are under the jurisdiction of such boards, including advertising pertaining to board certification and specialty. Those boards that have already adopted such rules and regulations are not required to adopt additional rules and regulations, unless and until deemed necessary and appropriate by those boards. Acts 2005, ch. 467, § 4.
Consistent with this title, the boards of the respective branches of the healing arts shall promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, and this title to regulate the nature, manner, content and extent of advertising and the use of titles by practitioners of such healing arts who are under the jurisdiction of such boards, including advertising pertaining to board certification and specialty. Those boards that have already adopted such rules and regulations are not required to adopt additional rules and regulations, unless and until deemed necessary and appropriate by those boards.
Acts 2005, ch. 467, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-219 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-219
Surgical assistants
Status: in_force

(a) No person shall use or assume the title "registered surgical assistant" unless such person is registered with the board as a registered surgical assistant. (b) The board shall register as a registered surgical assistant any applicant who presents satisfactory evidence that the applicant: (1) Holds and maintains a current credential as a surgical assistant or surgical first assistant issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, the National Surgical Assistant Association, or the National Commission for Certification of Surgical Assistants or their successors; (2) Has successfully completed a surgical assistant training program during the applicant's service as a member of any branch of the armed forces of the United States; or (3) Has practiced as a surgical assistant at any time in the six (6) months prior to July 1, 2017, provided the applicant registers with the board by December 31, 2019. (c) The board shall have the authority to deny, restrict, condition, revoke, or otherwise discipline the registration of a surgical assistant for violation of this section, violation of any rules promulgated pursuant to this section, or any basis provided in § 63-6-214 . Acts 1967, ch. 348, § 1; 1975, ch. 117, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-623; Acts 1983, ch. 344, §§ 1, 2; 1987, ch. 315, § 1; 1988, ch. 609, §§ 1, 2; 1990, ch. 596, § 1; 1992, ch. 916, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 404, § 13; 1994, ch. 732, §§ 5, 6; 1997 , ch. 470, § 1; 1999, ch. 305, §§ 1 - 3; 2009 , ch. 46, § 1, repealed by Acts 2011 , ch. 67, § 1, effective 4/12/2011.
(a) No person shall use or assume the title "registered surgical assistant" unless such person is registered with the board as a registered surgical assistant.
(b) The board shall register as a registered surgical assistant any applicant who presents satisfactory evidence that the applicant: (1) Holds and maintains a current credential as a surgical assistant or surgical first assistant issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, the National Surgical Assistant Association, or the National Commission for Certification of Surgical Assistants or their successors; (2) Has successfully completed a surgical assistant training program during the applicant's service as a member of any branch of the armed forces of the United States; or (3) Has practiced as a surgical assistant at any time in the six (6) months prior to July 1, 2017, provided the applicant registers with the board by December 31, 2019.
(1) Holds and maintains a current credential as a surgical assistant or surgical first assistant issued by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, the National Surgical Assistant Association, or the National Commission for Certification of Surgical Assistants or their successors;
(2) Has successfully completed a surgical assistant training program during the applicant's service as a member of any branch of the armed forces of the United States; or
(3) Has practiced as a surgical assistant at any time in the six (6) months prior to July 1, 2017, provided the applicant registers with the board by December 31, 2019.
(c) The board shall have the authority to deny, restrict, condition, revoke, or otherwise discipline the registration of a surgical assistant for violation of this section, violation of any rules promulgated pursuant to this section, or any basis provided in § 63-6-214 .
Acts 1967, ch. 348, § 1; 1975, ch. 117, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-623; Acts 1983, ch. 344, §§ 1, 2; 1987, ch. 315, § 1; 1988, ch. 609, §§ 1, 2; 1990, ch. 596, § 1; 1992, ch. 916, §§ 1-4; 1993, ch. 404, § 13; 1994, ch. 732, §§ 5, 6; 1997 , ch. 470, § 1; 1999, ch. 305, §§ 1 - 3; 2009 , ch. 46, § 1, repealed by Acts 2011 , ch. 67, § 1, effective 4/12/2011.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-121 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-121
Retirement from practice
Status: in_force

Any licensee who has retired, or may hereafter retire from practice in this state, shall not be made to register if such person files with the commissioner an affidavit on a form to be furnished by the commissioner. The affidavit shall state the date on which the person retired from practice and any other facts the commissioner deems necessary to verify the retirement. If such person thereafter reengages in practice in this state, then such person shall apply for registration with the commissioner and meet any other requirements as may be prescribed by the commissioner. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 23; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-221; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 31.
Any licensee who has retired, or may hereafter retire from practice in this state, shall not be made to register if such person files with the commissioner an affidavit on a form to be furnished by the commissioner. The affidavit shall state the date on which the person retired from practice and any other facts the commissioner deems necessary to verify the retirement. If such person thereafter reengages in practice in this state, then such person shall apply for registration with the commissioner and meet any other requirements as may be prescribed by the commissioner.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 23; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-221; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 31.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-22-103 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 22 / Section 63-22-103
Reciprocity - Licensure without examination - Licensure by endorsement
Status: in_force

(a) The board shall license without examination a marital and family therapist applicant who is licensed to practice independently in another state if the applicant's qualifications meet the licensure requirements under this part. (b) The board may enter into a reciprocal agreement with any other state that licenses marital and family therapists. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 700,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 4; 1991, ch. 141, § 5; 1991, ch. 421, § 6.
(a) The board shall license without examination a marital and family therapist applicant who is licensed to practice independently in another state if the applicant's qualifications meet the licensure requirements under this part.
(b) The board may enter into a reciprocal agreement with any other state that licenses marital and family therapists.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 700,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 4; 1991, ch. 141, § 5; 1991, ch. 421, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-25-108 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 25 / Section 63-25-108
Applications for licensure
Status: in_force

An applicant for licensure as a dietitian/nutritionist shall file a written application on forms provided by the department or via online application showing to the satisfaction of the board that such person: (1) Is of good moral character; (2) Has received a baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university that provides a major course of study in human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management, or an equivalent major course of study as approved by the board; (3) Has successfully completed a planned continuous preprofessional experience in nutrition practice of not less than nine hundred (900) hours under the supervision of a registered dietitian, or successfully completed a program of supervised clinical experience approved by the commission on dietetic registration of the American Dietetic Association; and (4) Has passed the national examination prepared and administered by the commission on dietetic registration of the American Dietetic Association. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 949,s 15, eff. 7/1/2014. Acts 1987, ch. 384, § 9.
An applicant for licensure as a dietitian/nutritionist shall file a written application on forms provided by the department or via online application showing to the satisfaction of the board that such person:
(1) Is of good moral character;
(2) Has received a baccalaureate or post-baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university that provides a major course of study in human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management, or an equivalent major course of study as approved by the board;
(3) Has successfully completed a planned continuous preprofessional experience in nutrition practice of not less than nine hundred (900) hours under the supervision of a registered dietitian, or successfully completed a program of supervised clinical experience approved by the commission on dietetic registration of the American Dietetic Association; and
(4) Has passed the national examination prepared and administered by the commission on dietetic registration of the American Dietetic Association.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 949,s 15, eff. 7/1/2014.
Acts 1987, ch. 384, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-218 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-218
Liability of sponsors
Status: in_force

Any person sponsoring an apprentice licensee and/or apprentice licensee applicant under this part shall be held responsible for the acts or omissions of the sponsor's apprentice licensee and/or apprentice licensee applicant within the course and scope of the licensee's or applicant's employment, during the apprenticeship, as well as the sponsor's employees. Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 20.
Any person sponsoring an apprentice licensee and/or apprentice licensee applicant under this part shall be held responsible for the acts or omissions of the sponsor's apprentice licensee and/or apprentice licensee applicant within the course and scope of the licensee's or applicant's employment, during the apprenticeship, as well as the sponsor's employees.
Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 20.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-104 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-104
Cancellation of program benefits
Status: in_force

(a) The administrator of a program shall notify all pharmacies enrolled in such program of any cancellation of the coverage of benefits of any group enrolled in such program at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation. In those cases where the administrator of a program is not notified at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation, the administrator shall notify all pharmacies enrolled in such program of the cancellation as soon as practicable after having received such notice. (b) All persons enrolled in a program shall be notified of its cancellation, and the administrator of such program shall make every reasonable effort to gain possession of any plan identification cards such persons may have been issued pursuant to such program. (c) Any person who utilizes a program identification card to obtain services from a pharmacy after having received notice of the cancellation of the person's benefits shall be liable to the program administrator of such program for all moneys paid by such program administrator for any services received pursuant to the illegal use of such identification card. Acts 1981, ch. 104, § 5; T.C.A., § 63-1054; T.C.A. § 63-10-304 .
(a) The administrator of a program shall notify all pharmacies enrolled in such program of any cancellation of the coverage of benefits of any group enrolled in such program at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation. In those cases where the administrator of a program is not notified at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of such cancellation, the administrator shall notify all pharmacies enrolled in such program of the cancellation as soon as practicable after having received such notice.
(b) All persons enrolled in a program shall be notified of its cancellation, and the administrator of such program shall make every reasonable effort to gain possession of any plan identification cards such persons may have been issued pursuant to such program.
(c) Any person who utilizes a program identification card to obtain services from a pharmacy after having received notice of the cancellation of the person's benefits shall be liable to the program administrator of such program for all moneys paid by such program administrator for any services received pursuant to the illegal use of such identification card.
Acts 1981, ch. 104, § 5; T.C.A., § 63-1054; T.C.A. § 63-10-304 .
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1101
Short title
Status: in_force

This part is known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Abortion-Inducing Drug Risk Protocol Act." Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
This part is known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Abortion-Inducing Drug Risk Protocol Act."
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1004 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1004
Promulgation of rules and regulations
Status: in_force

(a) The board, in consultation with the committee, shall: (1) Establish the qualifications and fitness of applicants of certifications, renewal of certifications and reciprocal certifications; (2) Establish grounds for revocation, suspension or denial of certification; (3) Establish grounds for placing on probation a holder of a certificate; (4) Establish the categories of fees and the amount of fees that may be imposed in connection with certification; (5) Issue declaratory orders pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5; (6) If deemed necessary by the committee, establish standards of continuing education; and (7) Adopt and use a seal to authenticate official documents of the committee. (b) Any actions taken under this section shall only be effective after adoption of a majority vote of the members of the committee. The board, by a majority vote of its members at the next board meeting at which administrative matters are considered, may rescind any action taken by the committee. Acts 2000, ch. 685, § 6.
(a) The board, in consultation with the committee, shall: (1) Establish the qualifications and fitness of applicants of certifications, renewal of certifications and reciprocal certifications; (2) Establish grounds for revocation, suspension or denial of certification; (3) Establish grounds for placing on probation a holder of a certificate; (4) Establish the categories of fees and the amount of fees that may be imposed in connection with certification; (5) Issue declaratory orders pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5; (6) If deemed necessary by the committee, establish standards of continuing education; and (7) Adopt and use a seal to authenticate official documents of the committee.
(1) Establish the qualifications and fitness of applicants of certifications, renewal of certifications and reciprocal certifications;
(2) Establish grounds for revocation, suspension or denial of certification;
(3) Establish grounds for placing on probation a holder of a certificate;
(4) Establish the categories of fees and the amount of fees that may be imposed in connection with certification;
(5) Issue declaratory orders pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5;
(6) If deemed necessary by the committee, establish standards of continuing education; and
(7) Adopt and use a seal to authenticate official documents of the committee.
(b) Any actions taken under this section shall only be effective after adoption of a majority vote of the members of the committee. The board, by a majority vote of its members at the next board meeting at which administrative matters are considered, may rescind any action taken by the committee.
Acts 2000, ch. 685, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-11-410 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 11 / Section 63-11-410
Scope of part
Status: in_force

(a) This part does not: (1) Require licensure or restrict the activities of a student enrolled in a graduate program in art therapy approved by the advisory committee while practicing art therapy under qualified supervision and as part of an approved course of study; or (2) Prohibit or restrict the practice of persons authorized to practice under this title who perform services consistent with the scope of practice of their profession and within the scope of their training and competence; provided, that the persons do not represent themselves to the public as a professional art therapist or as holding a license issued under this part. (b) This part does not permit any method of treatment that involves the administration or prescription of drugs or the practice of medicine in this state or permits a person licensed as a professional art therapist to perform psychological testing. (c) Subsection (b) does not prohibit a licensed professional art therapist from conducting appraisal activities. Consistent with each licensed professional art therapist's formal education and training, licensed professional art therapists may administer and utilize appropriate art therapy assessment instruments that measure or determine problems or dysfunctions within the context of human growth and development as part of the therapeutic process or in the development of a treatment plan. Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 160, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
(a) This part does not: (1) Require licensure or restrict the activities of a student enrolled in a graduate program in art therapy approved by the advisory committee while practicing art therapy under qualified supervision and as part of an approved course of study; or (2) Prohibit or restrict the practice of persons authorized to practice under this title who perform services consistent with the scope of practice of their profession and within the scope of their training and competence; provided, that the persons do not represent themselves to the public as a professional art therapist or as holding a license issued under this part.
(1) Require licensure or restrict the activities of a student enrolled in a graduate program in art therapy approved by the advisory committee while practicing art therapy under qualified supervision and as part of an approved course of study; or
(2) Prohibit or restrict the practice of persons authorized to practice under this title who perform services consistent with the scope of practice of their profession and within the scope of their training and competence; provided, that the persons do not represent themselves to the public as a professional art therapist or as holding a license issued under this part.
(b) This part does not permit any method of treatment that involves the administration or prescription of drugs or the practice of medicine in this state or permits a person licensed as a professional art therapist to perform psychological testing.
(c) Subsection (b) does not prohibit a licensed professional art therapist from conducting appraisal activities. Consistent with each licensed professional art therapist's formal education and training, licensed professional art therapists may administer and utilize appropriate art therapy assessment instruments that measure or determine problems or dysfunctions within the context of human growth and development as part of the therapeutic process or in the development of a treatment plan.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 160, s 2, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-102 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-102
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of health and includes designees of the commissioner of health; (2) "Electrologist" means any person practicing electrolysis for the permanent removal of hair; (3) "Electrology" means the art and practice relating to the removal of hair from the normal skin of the human body by application of an electric current to the hair papilla by means of a needle or needles so as to cause growth inactivity of the hair papilla and thus permanently remove the hair; (4) "Electrology instructor" means an electrologist who is licensed by the commissioner to practice and teach electrology; (5) "Electrolysis" means the process by which the hair is removed from the normal skin by the application of an electric current to the hair root by means of a needle or needles, whether the process employs direct electric current or short wave alternating electric current or combination of both, or by FDA approved laser beam process designated for permanent hair removal; and (6) "School" means an electrology school teaching the art of electrology. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 4; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-202; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 1, 37.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of health and includes designees of the commissioner of health;
(2) "Electrologist" means any person practicing electrolysis for the permanent removal of hair;
(3) "Electrology" means the art and practice relating to the removal of hair from the normal skin of the human body by application of an electric current to the hair papilla by means of a needle or needles so as to cause growth inactivity of the hair papilla and thus permanently remove the hair;
(4) "Electrology instructor" means an electrologist who is licensed by the commissioner to practice and teach electrology;
(5) "Electrolysis" means the process by which the hair is removed from the normal skin by the application of an electric current to the hair root by means of a needle or needles, whether the process employs direct electric current or short wave alternating electric current or combination of both, or by FDA approved laser beam process designated for permanent hair removal; and
(6) "School" means an electrology school teaching the art of electrology.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 4; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-202; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, §§ 1, 37.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-32-119 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 32 / Section 63-32-119
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The commissioner of health is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this chapter. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 19.
The commissioner of health is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this chapter. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5.
Acts 1998, ch. 1073, § 19.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-8-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 8 / Section 63-8-109
Reports of board
Status: in_force

The secretary-treasurer of the board shall make such reports of the operation of the board as requested by the governor, appropriate committees of the general assembly or as otherwise required by law. Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 4; impl. am. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 32; Shan. Supp., § 3654a13; Code 1932, § 7030; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 7030; modified; Acts 1979, ch. 406, § 13; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-809.
The secretary-treasurer of the board shall make such reports of the operation of the board as requested by the governor, appropriate committees of the general assembly or as otherwise required by law.
Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 4; impl. am. Acts 1925, ch. 115, § 32; Shan. Supp., § 3654a13; Code 1932, § 7030; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 7030; modified; Acts 1979, ch. 406, § 13; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-809.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-10-309 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 10 / Section 63-10-309
Power of board to suspend, revoke, or refuse to issue licenses - Civil penalties
Status: in_force

The board may deny, restrict, or condition any application for licensure; revoke or suspend any license or certification previously issued; or discipline and assess civil penalties against an applicant, licensee, or holder of a certificate upon a finding that the applicant, licensee, or holder of a certificate has: (1) Been convicted of a criminal offense, including, but not limited to, violating a law of this state or of the United States relating to drugs or to the practice of pharmacy; (2) Been addicted to the use of alcohol, narcotics, or other drugs; (3) Engaged in conduct that is prohibited or unlawful under parts 2-7 of this chapter, or another state or federal law relating to drugs or to the practice of pharmacy; (4) Exhibited an incapacity of a nature that prevents a pharmacist from engaging in the practice of pharmacy with reasonable skill, confidence, and safety to the public; (5) Been guilty of dishonorable, immoral, unethical, or unprofessional conduct; (6) Had the license to practice pharmacy suspended or revoked by another state for disciplinary reasons; or (7) Failed to comply with a lawful order or duly promulgated rule of the board. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 457, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023. Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 17; T.C.A. § 63-10-509; Acts 2007 , ch. 407, § 2.
The board may deny, restrict, or condition any application for licensure; revoke or suspend any license or certification previously issued; or discipline and assess civil penalties against an applicant, licensee, or holder of a certificate upon a finding that the applicant, licensee, or holder of a certificate has:
(1) Been convicted of a criminal offense, including, but not limited to, violating a law of this state or of the United States relating to drugs or to the practice of pharmacy;
(2) Been addicted to the use of alcohol, narcotics, or other drugs;
(3) Engaged in conduct that is prohibited or unlawful under parts 2-7 of this chapter, or another state or federal law relating to drugs or to the practice of pharmacy;
(4) Exhibited an incapacity of a nature that prevents a pharmacist from engaging in the practice of pharmacy with reasonable skill, confidence, and safety to the public;
(5) Been guilty of dishonorable, immoral, unethical, or unprofessional conduct;
(6) Had the license to practice pharmacy suspended or revoked by another state for disciplinary reasons; or
(7) Failed to comply with a lawful order or duly promulgated rule of the board.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 457, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 1996, ch. 651, § 17; T.C.A. § 63-10-509; Acts 2007 , ch. 407, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-19-208 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 19 / Section 63-19-208
Scope
Status: in_force

(a) Nothing in this part shall be construed to modify or supersede any existing laws or rules pertaining to any other allied health professionals, professions, or services. (b) Nothing in this part shall permit a licensed orthopedic physician assistant to: (1) Practice chiropractic or analyze or palpate the articulations of the spinal column for the purposes of giving a spinal adjustment; or (2) Measure the powers or range of human vision, or determine the refractive state of the human eye or the scope of its functions in general, or prescribe or direct the use of opthalmic lenses or prisms to remedy or relieve defects of vision or muscular anomalies or prescribe or fit or adapt contact lenses to or for the human eye. (c) This part does not apply to other physician extenders, physician assistants, family nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, technologists, technicians and other assistants or employees that perform delegated services in a medical setting. Acts 1995, ch. 337, § 10; 1997 , ch. 207, § 5.
(a) Nothing in this part shall be construed to modify or supersede any existing laws or rules pertaining to any other allied health professionals, professions, or services.
(b) Nothing in this part shall permit a licensed orthopedic physician assistant to: (1) Practice chiropractic or analyze or palpate the articulations of the spinal column for the purposes of giving a spinal adjustment; or (2) Measure the powers or range of human vision, or determine the refractive state of the human eye or the scope of its functions in general, or prescribe or direct the use of opthalmic lenses or prisms to remedy or relieve defects of vision or muscular anomalies or prescribe or fit or adapt contact lenses to or for the human eye.
(1) Practice chiropractic or analyze or palpate the articulations of the spinal column for the purposes of giving a spinal adjustment; or
(2) Measure the powers or range of human vision, or determine the refractive state of the human eye or the scope of its functions in general, or prescribe or direct the use of opthalmic lenses or prisms to remedy or relieve defects of vision or muscular anomalies or prescribe or fit or adapt contact lenses to or for the human eye.
(c) This part does not apply to other physician extenders, physician assistants, family nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, technologists, technicians and other assistants or employees that perform delegated services in a medical setting.
Acts 1995, ch. 337, § 10; 1997 , ch. 207, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-22-111 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 22 / Section 63-22-111
Reinstatement of revoked license or certificate
Status: in_force

A person whose license or certificate has been revoked by the board is not eligible to apply for reinstatement earlier than one (1) year from the date of revocation. Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 12; 1991, ch. 141, § 13; 1991, ch. 421, § 17.
A person whose license or certificate has been revoked by the board is not eligible to apply for reinstatement earlier than one (1) year from the date of revocation.
Acts 1984, ch. 933, § 12; 1991, ch. 141, § 13; 1991, ch. 421, § 17.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-18-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 18 / Section 63-18-109
Accusation - Hearing
Status: in_force

(a) Charges relative to a violation of this chapter may be presented by any person, or the board may, on its own motion, direct the chair of the board to present charges. An accusation may be filed with the chair of the board, charging any licensed massage therapist with any of the offenses enumerated in § 63-18-108 . (b) The board shall provide an applicant denied issuance of a license or a practitioner whose license is suspended, revoked or not renewed a hearing on such suspension, revocation or nonrenewal, which hearing shall be conducted pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Upon a decision of the board to refuse to issue, revoke or not to renew a license, the practitioner or establishment shall be prohibited from engaging in massage until the board's decision is overturned. Acts 1995, ch. 480, § 10; T.C.A. § 63-18-209.
(a) Charges relative to a violation of this chapter may be presented by any person, or the board may, on its own motion, direct the chair of the board to present charges. An accusation may be filed with the chair of the board, charging any licensed massage therapist with any of the offenses enumerated in § 63-18-108 .
(b) The board shall provide an applicant denied issuance of a license or a practitioner whose license is suspended, revoked or not renewed a hearing on such suspension, revocation or nonrenewal, which hearing shall be conducted pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Upon a decision of the board to refuse to issue, revoke or not to renew a license, the practitioner or establishment shall be prohibited from engaging in massage until the board's decision is overturned.
Acts 1995, ch. 480, § 10; T.C.A. § 63-18-209.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-8-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 8 / Section 63-8-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter may be cited as the "Optometry Law." Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 1; Shan. Supp., § 3654a9b1; mod. Code 1932, §7026; C. Supp. 1950, § 7026; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-801.
This chapter may be cited as the "Optometry Law."
Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 1; Shan. Supp., § 3654a9b1; mod. Code 1932, §7026; C. Supp. 1950, § 7026; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-801.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-19-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 19 / Section 63-19-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This part is known and may be cited as the "Physician Assistants Act." Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 565, s 6, eff. 5/26/2021. Acts 1985, ch. 376, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-19-201 .
This part is known and may be cited as the "Physician Assistants Act."
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 565, s 6, eff. 5/26/2021.
Acts 1985, ch. 376, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-19-201 .
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-26-120 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 26 / Section 63-26-120
Renewal of licenses - Revocation and reinstatement
Status: in_force

(a) Each licensed electrologist and each licensed electrology instructor shall pay the scheduled annual renewal fee to the commissioner, payable in advance, for the following year on or before December 31 of each year that such renewal fee is due. (b) Each licensed electrology school shall pay the scheduled annual renewal fee to the commissioner, payable in advance, for the following year on or before December 1 of each year that such renewal fee is due. (c) The commissioner shall renew the license of each licensee who meets the specified requirements for renewal or for registration. (d) When any electrologist licensee, electrology instructor licensee, or licensed electrology school shall fail to register and pay the annual registration fee within sixty (60) days after such registration becomes due, the license of such person or school shall be automatically revoked without further notice or hearing. (e) Any person or school whose license is automatically revoked may make application in writing to the commissioner for the reinstatement of such license, and upon good cause being shown, the commissioner, in the commissioner's discretion, may reinstate such license upon payment of all past-due renewal fees and upon payment of the scheduled reinstatement fee. Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 22; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-220; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 30.
(a) Each licensed electrologist and each licensed electrology instructor shall pay the scheduled annual renewal fee to the commissioner, payable in advance, for the following year on or before December 31 of each year that such renewal fee is due.
(b) Each licensed electrology school shall pay the scheduled annual renewal fee to the commissioner, payable in advance, for the following year on or before December 1 of each year that such renewal fee is due.
(c) The commissioner shall renew the license of each licensee who meets the specified requirements for renewal or for registration.
(d) When any electrologist licensee, electrology instructor licensee, or licensed electrology school shall fail to register and pay the annual registration fee within sixty (60) days after such registration becomes due, the license of such person or school shall be automatically revoked without further notice or hearing.
(e) Any person or school whose license is automatically revoked may make application in writing to the commissioner for the reinstatement of such license, and upon good cause being shown, the commissioner, in the commissioner's discretion, may reinstate such license upon payment of all past-due renewal fees and upon payment of the scheduled reinstatement fee.
Acts 1988, ch. 896, § 22; 1993, ch. 342, § 1; T.C.A., §62-34-220; Acts 2009 , ch. 456, § 30.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-25-201 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 25 / Section 63-25-201
[Effective 1/1/2026] Short title - Purpose
Status: in_force

(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Dietitian Licensure Compact." (b) The purpose of this compact is to facilitate interstate practice of dietetics with the goal of improving public access to dietetics services. This compact preserves the regulatory authority of states to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure, while also providing for licensure portability through a compact privilege granted to qualifying professionals. (c) This compact is designed to achieve the following objectives: (1) Increase public access to dietetics services; (2) Provide opportunities for interstate practice by licensed dietitians who meet uniform requirements; (3) Eliminate the necessity for licenses in multiple states; (4) Reduce administrative burden on member states and licensees; (5) Enhance the states' ability to protect the public's health and safety; (6) Encourage the cooperation of member states in regulating multistate practice of licensed dietitians; (7) Support relocating active military members and their spouses; (8) Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information among member states; and (9) Vest all member states with the authority to hold a licensed dietitian accountable for meeting all state practice laws in the state in which the patient is located at the time care is rendered. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1025,s 1, eff. 1/1/2026.
(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Dietitian Licensure Compact."
(b) The purpose of this compact is to facilitate interstate practice of dietetics with the goal of improving public access to dietetics services. This compact preserves the regulatory authority of states to protect public health and safety through the current system of state licensure, while also providing for licensure portability through a compact privilege granted to qualifying professionals.
(c) This compact is designed to achieve the following objectives: (1) Increase public access to dietetics services; (2) Provide opportunities for interstate practice by licensed dietitians who meet uniform requirements; (3) Eliminate the necessity for licenses in multiple states; (4) Reduce administrative burden on member states and licensees; (5) Enhance the states' ability to protect the public's health and safety; (6) Encourage the cooperation of member states in regulating multistate practice of licensed dietitians; (7) Support relocating active military members and their spouses; (8) Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information among member states; and (9) Vest all member states with the authority to hold a licensed dietitian accountable for meeting all state practice laws in the state in which the patient is located at the time care is rendered.
(1) Increase public access to dietetics services;
(2) Provide opportunities for interstate practice by licensed dietitians who meet uniform requirements;
(3) Eliminate the necessity for licenses in multiple states;
(4) Reduce administrative burden on member states and licensees;
(5) Enhance the states' ability to protect the public's health and safety;
(6) Encourage the cooperation of member states in regulating multistate practice of licensed dietitians;
(7) Support relocating active military members and their spouses;
(8) Enhance the exchange of licensure, investigative, and disciplinary information among member states; and
(9) Vest all member states with the authority to hold a licensed dietitian accountable for meeting all state practice laws in the state in which the patient is located at the time care is rendered.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1025,s 1, eff. 1/1/2026.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-604 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-604
Prohibited cross referral arrangements
Status: in_force

Cross referral arrangements or schemes between physicians or between physicians and entities, in which the physician or physicians know or should know that the arrangement has as its principal purpose generating referrals to an entity that if made directly by one of the participating physicians would be in violation of this part, are prohibited. Acts 1993, ch. 408, § 5.
Cross referral arrangements or schemes between physicians or between physicians and entities, in which the physician or physicians know or should know that the arrangement has as its principal purpose generating referrals to an entity that if made directly by one of the participating physicians would be in violation of this part, are prohibited.
Acts 1993, ch. 408, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-11-602 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 11 / Section 63-11-602
Part definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this part: (1) "Advisory committee" means the professional music therapy advisory committee of the board of examiners in psychology, created by § 63-11-601 ; (2) "Board" means the board of examiners in psychology; (3) "Board-certified music therapist" means a person who holds a current board certification from the certification board for music therapists; (4) "Certified professional music therapist" means a person certified to practice music therapy under this part; (5) "Music intervention" means the use of music in an individualized approach that includes music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, singing, music performance, learning through music, music combined with other arts, music-assisted relaxation, music-based education, electronic music technology, adapted music intervention, and movement to music, that may be used in a clinical, therapeutic relationship or in a non-clinical, non-therapeutic manner; and (6) "Music therapy": (A) Means the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a board-certified music therapist; and (B) Does not include the screening, diagnosis, or assessment of any physical, mental, or communication disorder. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
As used in this part:
(1) "Advisory committee" means the professional music therapy advisory committee of the board of examiners in psychology, created by § 63-11-601 ;
(2) "Board" means the board of examiners in psychology;
(3) "Board-certified music therapist" means a person who holds a current board certification from the certification board for music therapists;
(4) "Certified professional music therapist" means a person certified to practice music therapy under this part;
(5) "Music intervention" means the use of music in an individualized approach that includes music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, singing, music performance, learning through music, music combined with other arts, music-assisted relaxation, music-based education, electronic music technology, adapted music intervention, and movement to music, that may be used in a clinical, therapeutic relationship or in a non-clinical, non-therapeutic manner; and
(6) "Music therapy": (A) Means the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a board-certified music therapist; and (B) Does not include the screening, diagnosis, or assessment of any physical, mental, or communication disorder.
(A) Means the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a board-certified music therapist; and
(B) Does not include the screening, diagnosis, or assessment of any physical, mental, or communication disorder.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1010,s 2, eff. 1/1/2025.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-23-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 23 / Section 63-23-109
Privileged communications
Status: in_force

(a) The confidential relations and communications between a client and licensed social worker as defined in this chapter, are placed upon the same basis as those provided by law between licensed psychologists, licensed psychological examiners, licensed senior psychological examiners, certified psychological assistants and client, and nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require any such privileged communication to be disclosed. (b) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to prevent disclosure of confidential communications in proceedings arising under title 37, chapter 1, part 4, concerning mandatory child abuse reports. Acts 1984, ch. 1003, § 1; 1990, ch. 913, § 3; 2001, ch. 334, § 18; T.C.A. § 63-23-107 ; Acts 2008 , ch. 1016, § 1.
(a) The confidential relations and communications between a client and licensed social worker as defined in this chapter, are placed upon the same basis as those provided by law between licensed psychologists, licensed psychological examiners, licensed senior psychological examiners, certified psychological assistants and client, and nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require any such privileged communication to be disclosed.
(b) Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to prevent disclosure of confidential communications in proceedings arising under title 37, chapter 1, part 4, concerning mandatory child abuse reports.
Acts 1984, ch. 1003, § 1; 1990, ch. 913, § 3; 2001, ch. 334, § 18; T.C.A. § 63-23-107 ; Acts 2008 , ch. 1016, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-13-313 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 13 / Section 63-13-313
Disciplinary actions of the board
Status: in_force

The board may, upon proof of the violation of any provision of this chapter, take the following disciplinary actions singly or in combination: (1) Deny an application for a license to any applicant who applies for the same through reciprocity or otherwise; (2) Permanently or temporarily withhold issuance of a license; (3) Suspend, limit or restrict a previously issued license for such time and in such manner as the board may determine; (4) Issue a letter of reprimand; (5) Reprimand or take such action in relation to disciplining an applicant or licensee, including, but not limited to, informal settlements and letters of warning as the board, in its discretion, may deem proper; (6) Revoke a license; (7) Refuse to issue or renew a license; or (8) Impose civil penalties for violation of this chapter pursuant to § 63-1-134 . In addition, the board may, in its discretion, assess and collect the reasonable costs incurred in a disciplinary hearing when action is taken against a person's license. Acts 1999, ch. 528, § 25; 2007 , ch. 115, § 10.
The board may, upon proof of the violation of any provision of this chapter, take the following disciplinary actions singly or in combination:
(1) Deny an application for a license to any applicant who applies for the same through reciprocity or otherwise;
(2) Permanently or temporarily withhold issuance of a license;
(3) Suspend, limit or restrict a previously issued license for such time and in such manner as the board may determine;
(4) Issue a letter of reprimand;
(5) Reprimand or take such action in relation to disciplining an applicant or licensee, including, but not limited to, informal settlements and letters of warning as the board, in its discretion, may deem proper;
(6) Revoke a license;
(7) Refuse to issue or renew a license; or
(8) Impose civil penalties for violation of this chapter pursuant to § 63-1-134 . In addition, the board may, in its discretion, assess and collect the reasonable costs incurred in a disciplinary hearing when action is taken against a person's license.
Acts 1999, ch. 528, § 25; 2007 , ch. 115, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-1108 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-1108
Right of intervention
Status: in_force

The attorney general and reporter may bring an action to enforce compliance with this part or intervene as a matter of right in a case in which the constitutionality of this part is challenged. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
The attorney general and reporter may bring an action to enforce compliance with this part or intervene as a matter of right in a case in which the constitutionality of this part is challenged.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1001, s 3, eff. 1/1/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-13-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 13 / Section 63-13-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Occupational and Physical Therapy Practice Act." Acts 1984, ch. 921, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-13-201 ; Acts 1999, ch. 528, § 2.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Occupational and Physical Therapy Practice Act."
Acts 1984, ch. 921, § 2; T.C.A., § 63-13-201 ; Acts 1999, ch. 528, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-132 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-132
Enjoining violations
Status: in_force

In addition to the penalties herein provided in this chapter, the board may institute legal proceedings to enjoin the violation of this chapter or rules of the board in any court of competent jurisdiction; and such court may grant a temporary or permanent injunction restraining the violation thereof. Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 32; T.C.A., § 63-1232.
In addition to the penalties herein provided in this chapter, the board may institute legal proceedings to enjoin the violation of this chapter or rules of the board in any court of competent jurisdiction; and such court may grant a temporary or permanent injunction restraining the violation thereof.
Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 32; T.C.A., § 63-1232.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-1-320 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 1 / Section 63-1-320
Providing rules to health committee and health and welfare committee
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding this part or the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, any rule promulgated to implement this part shall be provided to the chairs of the health committee of the house of representatives and the health and welfare committee of the senate by the secretary of state, after approval by the attorney general and reporter, at the same time the text of the rule is made available to the government operations committees of the senate and the house of representatives for purposes of conducting the review required by § 4-5-226 in order for the health committee of the house of representatives and the health and welfare committee of the senate to be afforded the opportunity to comment on the rule. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1033,s 17, eff. 7/1/2017.
Notwithstanding this part or the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, any rule promulgated to implement this part shall be provided to the chairs of the health committee of the house of representatives and the health and welfare committee of the senate by the secretary of state, after approval by the attorney general and reporter, at the same time the text of the rule is made available to the government operations committees of the senate and the house of representatives for purposes of conducting the review required by § 4-5-226 in order for the health committee of the house of representatives and the health and welfare committee of the senate to be afforded the opportunity to comment on the rule.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1033,s 17, eff. 7/1/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-4-122 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 4 / Section 63-4-122
Advertising
Status: in_force

(a) The board shall adopt rules and regulations to regulate the nature, manner, content and extent of advertising by practitioners who are under the jurisdiction of such board. (b) Any licensed chiropractor who advertises or announces to the public that the licensed chiropractor is a certified acupuncturist shall be deemed to have engaged in false, misleading or deceptive advertising. Acts 1984, ch. 546, § 1; 2006, ch. 775, § 3.
(a) The board shall adopt rules and regulations to regulate the nature, manner, content and extent of advertising by practitioners who are under the jurisdiction of such board.
(b) Any licensed chiropractor who advertises or announces to the public that the licensed chiropractor is a certified acupuncturist shall be deemed to have engaged in false, misleading or deceptive advertising.
Acts 1984, ch. 546, § 1; 2006, ch. 775, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-24-110 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 24 / Section 63-24-110
Exemptions
Status: in_force

(a) No provision of this chapter shall be construed so as to limit or prevent any person duly licensed or certified under the laws of this state from practicing the profession for which the person was licensed or certified. (b) This chapter shall not be construed to apply to any person engaging in the practice of athletic training while employed for such purpose by a non-Tennessee post secondary educational institution or professional athletic organization that is temporarily present in this state for an athletic competition or exhibition. (c) The board shall have the authority to assess civil penalties commensurate with those assessable under § 63-1-134 against persons who have knowingly employed, contracted for or otherwise utilized unlicensed persons in the practice of athletic training, with or without compensation. (d) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as applying to physicians duly licensed under this title who employ or contract for services provided by persons in the physician's office assisting in the care of patients and rendered under the supervision, control and responsibility of the licensed physician. Acts 1983, ch. 361, §§ 12, 13; T.C.A., § 63-6-310; Acts 1985, ch. 280, § 5; 2000, ch. 694, § 1; 2006, ch. 872, § 6.
(a) No provision of this chapter shall be construed so as to limit or prevent any person duly licensed or certified under the laws of this state from practicing the profession for which the person was licensed or certified.
(b) This chapter shall not be construed to apply to any person engaging in the practice of athletic training while employed for such purpose by a non-Tennessee post secondary educational institution or professional athletic organization that is temporarily present in this state for an athletic competition or exhibition.
(c) The board shall have the authority to assess civil penalties commensurate with those assessable under § 63-1-134 against persons who have knowingly employed, contracted for or otherwise utilized unlicensed persons in the practice of athletic training, with or without compensation.
(d) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as applying to physicians duly licensed under this title who employ or contract for services provided by persons in the physician's office assisting in the care of patients and rendered under the supervision, control and responsibility of the licensed physician.
Acts 1983, ch. 361, §§ 12, 13; T.C.A., § 63-6-310; Acts 1985, ch. 280, § 5; 2000, ch. 694, § 1; 2006, ch. 872, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-229 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-229
Consent to medical treatment by a minor
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in the absence or unavailability of a spouse, any minor is authorized and empowered to consent for such minor's child, either orally or otherwise, to any surgical or medical treatment or procedures not prohibited by law that may be suggested, recommended, prescribed or directed by a duly licensed physician. Acts 1995, ch. 317, § 1.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in the absence or unavailability of a spouse, any minor is authorized and empowered to consent for such minor's child, either orally or otherwise, to any surgical or medical treatment or procedures not prohibited by law that may be suggested, recommended, prescribed or directed by a duly licensed physician.
Acts 1995, ch. 317, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-212 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-212
Notification of change of address
Status: in_force

Each licensee shall notify the council of any change of address of the licensee's place of business, within thirty (30) days of such change. Failure to give such notice shall be deemed just cause for disciplinary action by the council. Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 14.
Each licensee shall notify the council of any change of address of the licensee's place of business, within thirty (30) days of such change. Failure to give such notice shall be deemed just cause for disciplinary action by the council.
Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 14.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-7-106 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 7 / Section 63-7-106
Registered nurse fees - Certification to other states
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse by examination must pay a fee as set by the board and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant. (2) An unsuccessful applicant for licensure by examination may rewrite the examination upon payment of a fee as set by the board, and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant. (3) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse without examination under § 63-7-105(b) shall pay a fee as set by the board. (b) The applicant for a temporary permit shall pay a fee as set by the board. (c) Any person who holds a license to practice professional nursing under this chapter, and who seeks to be licensed in another state by endorsement on the basis of the person's Tennessee license, shall have the license certified by the board for a fee as set by the board. (d) The applicant for a duplicate original license or a duplicate renewal certificate shall pay a fee as set by the board. (e) The applicant for a school transcript shall pay a fee as set by the board. (f) The applicant for a change in name shall pay a fee as set by the board. (g) An applicant for a certificate of fitness or a temporary certificate of fitness pursuant to § 63-7-123 shall pay a fee as set by the board. Acts 1967, ch. 78, § 15; 1976, ch. 501, §§ 4, 5; 1981, ch. 462, §§ 3-5; T.C.A., § 63-743; Acts 1982, ch. 712, § 4; 1985, ch. 39, §§ 2-4; 1989, ch. 523, §§ 194-200; 1992, ch. 822, § 2; 2005, ch. 387, § 4.
(a) (1) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse by examination must pay a fee as set by the board and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant. (2) An unsuccessful applicant for licensure by examination may rewrite the examination upon payment of a fee as set by the board, and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant. (3) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse without examination under § 63-7-105(b) shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(1) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse by examination must pay a fee as set by the board and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant.
(2) An unsuccessful applicant for licensure by examination may rewrite the examination upon payment of a fee as set by the board, and the board may direct, by regulation, that a part of the fee shall be paid directly to a testing service by the applicant.
(3) The applicant for a license to practice as a professional or registered nurse without examination under § 63-7-105(b) shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(b) The applicant for a temporary permit shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(c) Any person who holds a license to practice professional nursing under this chapter, and who seeks to be licensed in another state by endorsement on the basis of the person's Tennessee license, shall have the license certified by the board for a fee as set by the board.
(d) The applicant for a duplicate original license or a duplicate renewal certificate shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(e) The applicant for a school transcript shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(f) The applicant for a change in name shall pay a fee as set by the board.
(g) An applicant for a certificate of fitness or a temporary certificate of fitness pursuant to § 63-7-123 shall pay a fee as set by the board.
Acts 1967, ch. 78, § 15; 1976, ch. 501, §§ 4, 5; 1981, ch. 462, §§ 3-5; T.C.A., § 63-743; Acts 1982, ch. 712, § 4; 1985, ch. 39, §§ 2-4; 1989, ch. 523, §§ 194-200; 1992, ch. 822, § 2; 2005, ch. 387, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-104 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-104
Meetings - Compensation - Disposition of receipts - Operating expenses
Status: in_force

(a) All regular meetings of the board shall be held upon the call of the president. (b) (1) The members of the board shall be entitled to a per diem of one hundred dollars ($100) for each day's service in attending meetings of the board, as provided in this section, and for conducting examinations for professional certificates and other administrative functions of the board and necessary expenses for traveling and subsistence while attending such meetings. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter. (2) The board shall pay all money received by it into the state treasury and the commissioner of finance and administration shall make such allotments out of the general fund as the commissioner may deem proper for the necessary and proper expenses of the board, and no expenditure shall be made by the board unless and until such allotment has been made by the commissioner. Such allotment shall be disbursed under the general budgetary laws of this state. Acts 1901, ch. 78, § 5; Shan., § 3609a17; mod. Code 1932, § 6922; Acts 1945, ch. 181, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 6922; Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 13; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1961, ch. 97, § 3; Acts 1975, ch. 355, § 13; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(113); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-604; Acts 1993, ch. 404, § 5.
(a) All regular meetings of the board shall be held upon the call of the president.
(b) (1) The members of the board shall be entitled to a per diem of one hundred dollars ($100) for each day's service in attending meetings of the board, as provided in this section, and for conducting examinations for professional certificates and other administrative functions of the board and necessary expenses for traveling and subsistence while attending such meetings. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter. (2) The board shall pay all money received by it into the state treasury and the commissioner of finance and administration shall make such allotments out of the general fund as the commissioner may deem proper for the necessary and proper expenses of the board, and no expenditure shall be made by the board unless and until such allotment has been made by the commissioner. Such allotment shall be disbursed under the general budgetary laws of this state.
(1) The members of the board shall be entitled to a per diem of one hundred dollars ($100) for each day's service in attending meetings of the board, as provided in this section, and for conducting examinations for professional certificates and other administrative functions of the board and necessary expenses for traveling and subsistence while attending such meetings. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.
(2) The board shall pay all money received by it into the state treasury and the commissioner of finance and administration shall make such allotments out of the general fund as the commissioner may deem proper for the necessary and proper expenses of the board, and no expenditure shall be made by the board unless and until such allotment has been made by the commissioner. Such allotment shall be disbursed under the general budgetary laws of this state.
Acts 1901, ch. 78, § 5; Shan., § 3609a17; mod. Code 1932, § 6922; Acts 1945, ch. 181, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 6922; Acts 1953, ch. 113, § 13; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1961, ch. 97, § 3; Acts 1975, ch. 355, § 13; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(113); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-604; Acts 1993, ch. 404, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-3-111 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 3 / Section 63-3-111
Contents of examination - Grade requirement - Fee
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The board may conduct examinations at such times and places as it may designate. (2) Examinations shall be in the English language, written and clinical, and shall include subjects of histology, surgery, hygiene, dermatology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, bacteriology, pathology, diagnosis and treatment, materia medica and therapeutics, and clinical podiatry and such additional subjects as are pertinent to podiatry; but such examinations shall be so limited in their scope as to cover only the requirements for podiatry education as provided in this chapter. (3) The board may accept the report of the National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners on any examinee. (b) The board shall establish the minimum passing grade by regulation. (c) The board may set an examination fee. Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.5 (Williams, § 7182.6); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; 1973, ch. 393, § 9; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-311; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 9; 1990, ch. 886, § 2; 2009, ch. 422, § 9.
(a) (1) The board may conduct examinations at such times and places as it may designate. (2) Examinations shall be in the English language, written and clinical, and shall include subjects of histology, surgery, hygiene, dermatology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, bacteriology, pathology, diagnosis and treatment, materia medica and therapeutics, and clinical podiatry and such additional subjects as are pertinent to podiatry; but such examinations shall be so limited in their scope as to cover only the requirements for podiatry education as provided in this chapter. (3) The board may accept the report of the National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners on any examinee.
(1) The board may conduct examinations at such times and places as it may designate.
(2) Examinations shall be in the English language, written and clinical, and shall include subjects of histology, surgery, hygiene, dermatology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, bacteriology, pathology, diagnosis and treatment, materia medica and therapeutics, and clinical podiatry and such additional subjects as are pertinent to podiatry; but such examinations shall be so limited in their scope as to cover only the requirements for podiatry education as provided in this chapter.
(3) The board may accept the report of the National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners on any examinee.
(b) The board shall establish the minimum passing grade by regulation.
(c) The board may set an examination fee.
Acts 1931, ch. 31, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 7182.5 (Williams, § 7182.6); Acts 1971, ch. 188, § 1; 1973, ch. 393, § 9; 1976, ch. 796, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-311; Acts 1984, ch. 937, § 9; 1990, ch. 886, § 2; 2009, ch. 422, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-17-215 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 17 / Section 63-17-215
Expenses of board and council paid by fees
Status: in_force

The fees relating to the practice of dispensing hearing instruments shall be set by the board in an amount sufficient to pay all of the expenses of the council, as well as all of the expenses of the board that are directly attributable to the performance of its duties pursuant to this part. Expenditures of the council for investigations and disciplinary actions shall be the financial responsibility of the licensees who are regulated by such council. Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 17.
The fees relating to the practice of dispensing hearing instruments shall be set by the board in an amount sufficient to pay all of the expenses of the council, as well as all of the expenses of the board that are directly attributable to the performance of its duties pursuant to this part. Expenditures of the council for investigations and disciplinary actions shall be the financial responsibility of the licensees who are regulated by such council.
Acts 1995, ch. 481, § 17.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-8-106 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 8 / Section 63-8-106
Removal of members of board
Status: in_force

(a) The governor or the board shall have the right to remove from office any or all of the members of the board for inefficiency, neglect of duty or the violation of this chapter. (b) If the certificate of registration or license of any member of the board is suspended or revoked for cause after the hearing provided for in this chapter, the member's membership on the board shall automatically cease. Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 4; Shan. Supp., § 3654a12; Code 1932, § 7029; C. Supp. 1950, § 7029; Acts 1979, ch. 406, § 11; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-806.
(a) The governor or the board shall have the right to remove from office any or all of the members of the board for inefficiency, neglect of duty or the violation of this chapter.
(b) If the certificate of registration or license of any member of the board is suspended or revoked for cause after the hearing provided for in this chapter, the member's membership on the board shall automatically cease.
Acts 1925, ch. 99, § 4; Shan. Supp., § 3654a12; Code 1932, § 7029; C. Supp. 1950, § 7029; Acts 1979, ch. 406, § 11; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 63-806.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-3-125 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 3 / Section 63-3-125
Regulations relating to X-ray procedures
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The board shall adopt rules and regulations that establish minimum educational standards and criteria for persons operating X-ray equipment for diagnostic purposes in podiatrist offices. (2) These regulations may include, but not be limited to, provisions for grandfathering, waiver, reciprocity, renewal, continuing education, fees, examination and hardship cases. (b) After the effective date of the rules and regulations, no person shall perform X-ray procedures in a podiatrist office who does not meet these standards and who has not received a certificate of proficiency from the board. Acts 1990, ch. 886, § 3.
(a) (1) The board shall adopt rules and regulations that establish minimum educational standards and criteria for persons operating X-ray equipment for diagnostic purposes in podiatrist offices. (2) These regulations may include, but not be limited to, provisions for grandfathering, waiver, reciprocity, renewal, continuing education, fees, examination and hardship cases.
(1) The board shall adopt rules and regulations that establish minimum educational standards and criteria for persons operating X-ray equipment for diagnostic purposes in podiatrist offices.
(2) These regulations may include, but not be limited to, provisions for grandfathering, waiver, reciprocity, renewal, continuing education, fees, examination and hardship cases.
(b) After the effective date of the rules and regulations, no person shall perform X-ray procedures in a podiatrist office who does not meet these standards and who has not received a certificate of proficiency from the board.
Acts 1990, ch. 886, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-9-118 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 9 / Section 63-9-118
Mandatory disclosure of career fatigue for initial licensure prohibited
Status: in_force

The board shall not require an applicant for licensure pursuant to this title to disclose career fatigue, as defined in § 63-1-173 , as a requirement for initial licensure. Physicians who experience career fatigue are encouraged to seek services from the Tennessee Medical Foundation or a similar entity, or private counseling services. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 924,s 7, eff. 1/1/2025.
The board shall not require an applicant for licensure pursuant to this title to disclose career fatigue, as defined in § 63-1-173 , as a requirement for initial licensure. Physicians who experience career fatigue are encouraged to seek services from the Tennessee Medical Foundation or a similar entity, or private counseling services.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 924,s 7, eff. 1/1/2025.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-30-102 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 30 / Section 63-30-102
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Certification" means completion of a two hundred (200) hour reflexology only course offered by an institution approved by the Tennessee higher education commission or its equivalent in other states; (2) "Client" means any person who engages the services of a reflexology practitioner; (3) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of health or the commissioner's designee; (4) "Department" means the department of health; (5) "Division" means the division of health-related boards in the department of health; (6) "Reflexology" means the application of specific pressures to reflex points in the hands and feet only; (7) "Reflexology practitioner" or "reflexologist" means any person who engages in the practice of reflexology for compensation and who has completed a study of the principles of reflexology, anatomy and physiology generally included in a regular course of study of reflexology; and (8) "Registration" means satisfying the requirements for registration by the department of health. Acts 2001, ch. 389, § 3; 2004, ch. 465, § 1.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Certification" means completion of a two hundred (200) hour reflexology only course offered by an institution approved by the Tennessee higher education commission or its equivalent in other states;
(2) "Client" means any person who engages the services of a reflexology practitioner;
(3) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of health or the commissioner's designee;
(4) "Department" means the department of health;
(5) "Division" means the division of health-related boards in the department of health;
(6) "Reflexology" means the application of specific pressures to reflex points in the hands and feet only;
(7) "Reflexology practitioner" or "reflexologist" means any person who engages in the practice of reflexology for compensation and who has completed a study of the principles of reflexology, anatomy and physiology generally included in a regular course of study of reflexology; and
(8) "Registration" means satisfying the requirements for registration by the department of health.
Acts 2001, ch. 389, § 3; 2004, ch. 465, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-14-109 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 14 / Section 63-14-109
Secretary - Investigators - Administrative support
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The secretary shall keep an accurate record of the minutes of the meetings of the board and shall keep an accurate and complete register showing the names and addresses of all persons to whom licenses or certificates to practice as dispensing opticians have been issued by the board. (2) The secretary of the board shall be paid a salary not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500) per year, in addition to per diem and mileage allowances and necessary expenses as fixed and approved by the board. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter. (b) The board will employ such investigators as are deemed necessary to effectually carry out this chapter and shall be represented by the attorney named to represent the state regulatory and registration boards. (c) The board shall receive administrative support from the division of health related boards in the department of health, referred to as the "division" in this chapter. Acts 1955, ch. 98, § 6; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(118); T.C.A., §63-1408; Acts 1984, ch. 937, §§49, 51; 1997 , ch. 463, §§ 7, 8.
(a) (1) The secretary shall keep an accurate record of the minutes of the meetings of the board and shall keep an accurate and complete register showing the names and addresses of all persons to whom licenses or certificates to practice as dispensing opticians have been issued by the board. (2) The secretary of the board shall be paid a salary not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500) per year, in addition to per diem and mileage allowances and necessary expenses as fixed and approved by the board. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.
(1) The secretary shall keep an accurate record of the minutes of the meetings of the board and shall keep an accurate and complete register showing the names and addresses of all persons to whom licenses or certificates to practice as dispensing opticians have been issued by the board.
(2) The secretary of the board shall be paid a salary not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500) per year, in addition to per diem and mileage allowances and necessary expenses as fixed and approved by the board. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.
(b) The board will employ such investigators as are deemed necessary to effectually carry out this chapter and shall be represented by the attorney named to represent the state regulatory and registration boards.
(c) The board shall receive administrative support from the division of health related boards in the department of health, referred to as the "division" in this chapter.
Acts 1955, ch. 98, § 6; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(118); T.C.A., §63-1408; Acts 1984, ch. 937, §§49, 51; 1997 , ch. 463, §§ 7, 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Veterinary Practice Act." Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 819, s 2, eff. 7/1/2016. Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-1201.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Veterinary Practice Act."
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 819, s 2, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1967, ch. 80, § 1; T.C.A., § 63-1201.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-12-142 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 12 / Section 63-12-142
Immunity for certain emergency treatment
Status: in_force

Any licensed veterinarian or ancillary veterinary personnel employed by and working under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian who, in good faith, at such person's own initiative, renders emergency treatment to an ill or injured animal gratuitously and without making charge for such treatment is not liable to the owner of the animal for any civil damages arising from the treatment provided to the animal except in cases of gross negligence. If the licensed veterinarian or ancillary veterinary personnel acting under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian performs euthanasia on an animal, it is presumed that it was a humane act necessary to relieve pain and suffering. Acts 1997 , ch. 484, § 1.
Any licensed veterinarian or ancillary veterinary personnel employed by and working under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian who, in good faith, at such person's own initiative, renders emergency treatment to an ill or injured animal gratuitously and without making charge for such treatment is not liable to the owner of the animal for any civil damages arising from the treatment provided to the animal except in cases of gross negligence. If the licensed veterinarian or ancillary veterinary personnel acting under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian performs euthanasia on an animal, it is presumed that it was a humane act necessary to relieve pain and suffering.
Acts 1997 , ch. 484, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-6-503 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 6 / Section 63-6-503
Federal law
Status: in_force

Nothing in this part is intended to nor shall it permit any action that is inconsistent with the federal Patient and Program Protection Act of 1987, or other provisions of federal law that prohibits such arrangements as a condition to receipt of federal funds. Acts 1991, ch. 349, § 2.
Nothing in this part is intended to nor shall it permit any action that is inconsistent with the federal Patient and Program Protection Act of 1987, or other provisions of federal law that prohibits such arrangements as a condition to receipt of federal funds.
Acts 1991, ch. 349, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 63-28-101 — TN Code / Title 63 / Chapter 28 / Section 63-28-101
Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Clinical Perfusionist Licensure Act." Acts 1999, ch. 239, § 1.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Clinical Perfusionist Licensure Act."
Acts 1999, ch. 239, § 1.