California Senate Bill SB1114

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/18
• Refer: 2/22/18

Caption

Health care professionals.

Impact

If implemented, SB 1114 would streamline the licensing process for healthcare professionals whose licenses have lapsed within the last five years, allowing them to operate without the usual fees typically associated with re-licensing. The legislation aims to address the critical need for healthcare services in disaster scenarios by making it easier for previously licensed professionals to re-enter the workforce. This may significantly affect how the state prepares for and responds to public health crises, particularly in hard-hit areas where additional medical personnel could make a crucial difference.

Summary

Senate Bill 1114, introduced by Senator Fuller on February 13, 2018, seeks to amend Section 921 of the Business and Professions Code pertaining to healthcare professionals. The bill modifies nonsubstantive elements of the existing Health Care Professional Disaster Response Act, emphasizing the recognition of shortages of qualified healthcare practitioners during periods of national or state emergencies. In such times, the bill underscores the potential role of practitioners with lapsed or inactive licenses in responding to urgent public health needs, should the licensing process be simplified and fees eliminated.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive move to support public health emergency preparedness, there may be points of contention primarily surrounding the welfare of patients and the implications for healthcare quality. Critics might argue that allowing practitioners with lapsed licenses to practice without additional training could pose risks to patient safety and care quality, raising questions about appropriate oversight and standards during emergencies. Thus, the conversation around SB 1114 not only reflects a focus on practical responses to healthcare needs during disasters but also highlights ongoing debates about healthcare regulation and practitioner competencies.