An Act Concerning The Connecticut Medical Examining Board.
Impact
If enacted, HB 06374 will enhance oversight and accountability within the CMEB by establishing stricter criteria for board member appointments. This includes a requirement that no board member can be an officer of a professional society to prevent conflicts of interest. Moreover, the bill reformulates the process for handling disciplinary actions against practitioners, establishing a medical hearing panel to review complaints and propose decisions that the board must act upon. This change aims to streamline processes and improve patient protections within medical practice in the state.
Summary
House Bill 06374, titled 'An Act Concerning The Connecticut Medical Examining Board,' aims to reform the structure and function of the Connecticut Medical Examining Board (CMEB). The bill proposes changes to the qualifications and composition of board members, which include a mix of physicians, physician assistants, and public members. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that board members are practitioners in good professional standing and residents of Connecticut, while imposing restrictions on who can be appointed to ensure impartiality in hearings and decisions regarding medical licensure.
Contention
While the bill is largely supported by advocates of reforming medical oversight, some may raise concerns regarding the implications of restricting board member qualifications. Critics might argue that such restrictions could limit the diversity of expertise within the board. Furthermore, the perceived authority given to the medical hearing panels may also raise questions about the balance of power in disciplinary matters. Overall, the debate around HB 06374 highlights the tension between ensuring patient safety and allowing flexibility for medical professionals in self-regulation.
An Act Updating Requirements For Construction Management Oversight At The University Of Connecticut, Pausing The Requirement For A Plan To Increase The Number Of Full-time Faculty At Public Institutions Of Higher Education And Replacing References To The President Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities With The Chancellor Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities.
A bill for an act providing for the collaborative practice of physician assistants by allowing for the practice of certain physician assistants without supervision by a physician. (Formerly HSB 115.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.