Colorado's Senate Bill 152, introduced on March 25, 2025, aims to enhance transparency in healthcare by mandating that practitioners clearly display their specific state-issued licenses, certificates, or registrations. Dubbed the "Know Your Health-Care Practitioner Act," the bill seeks to address concerns about patient safety and informed decision-making in healthcare settings.

The key provisions of the bill require healthcare practitioners to wear identification name tags that prominently feature their credentials without abbreviations. Additionally, practitioners must verbally communicate their qualifications to patients when establishing a practitioner-patient relationship. This initiative is designed to empower patients with the knowledge needed to make informed choices about their healthcare providers.

Notably, the bill includes provisions for practitioners working in facilities accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, allowing them to comply with identification requirements through facility policies. However, the act does not apply to practitioners in non-patient-care settings or in situations where direct patient interaction is not feasible. Importantly, the legislation also allows practitioners to conceal their names in specific circumstances for safety reasons.

Debate surrounding the bill has focused on its implications for patient safety and the potential burden it may place on healthcare providers. Supporters argue that increased transparency will foster trust and improve patient outcomes, while critics express concerns about the practicality of implementation and the potential for confusion among patients regarding the qualifications of various practitioners.

The economic implications of Senate Bill 152 could be significant, as enhanced transparency may lead to increased patient engagement and satisfaction, ultimately benefiting healthcare facilities through improved patient retention and outcomes. Socially, the bill aims to create a more informed patient population, which could lead to better health decisions and outcomes.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its potential to reshape the landscape of patient-provider interactions in Colorado remains a focal point for stakeholders in the healthcare community. If passed, Senate Bill 152 could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in healthcare.