Georgia Governor Signs Truth in Advertising Legislation into Law

On May 12, Governor Nathan Deal (R-GA) signed into law HB 416, legislation which requires health care professionals to disclose professional information in advertisements and clinical identification.

Specifically, the bill requires health care practitioners to wear an identifier that includes their name and the types of license or educational degree they hold during all patient encounters. Advertisements for health care practitioners must also identify the type of license held. In a health care practice or facility other than a hospital, there must be a display in the reception area providing a notice that clearly identifies the type of health care practitioners employed and a notice of the patient’s right to inquire about a practitioner’s license. The bill also requires health care practitioners who practice in multiple offices to place identifier information noticeably on their website if they have one.

To date, 19 states now have Truth in Advertising laws put in place, though they differ in their requirements. If you’re interested in learning more about getting truth in advertising legislation passed in your state, please contact Ashli Eastwood, State Affairs Associate, at [email protected].

Congratulations to Georgia on this success for patient’s rights!