Connecticut House Bill HB05479

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Scope Of Practice Review.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5479 could significantly impact the ways in which health care professionals are reviewed and regulated in the state. By making the review process voluntary, it may enable health professionals to have more flexibility in how they practice their respective scopes. However, it also raises concerns about whether this could lead to less oversight and potentially affect the quality of care provided to patients. Advocates of the bill argue it will lead to more efficient use of resources, while opponents warn it might diminish necessary regulatory standards.

Summary

House Bill 5479 seeks to amend the existing legislation concerning the scope of practice review for health care professionals. The proposed change shifts the process from being mandatory to voluntary. Under the current law, the Department of Public Health is required to submit scope of practice reviews to designated committees, but this bill intends to remove that obligation. The goal is to streamline the process and reduce the administrative burden on health care professionals and the Department itself.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between professional autonomy and the need for regulatory oversight in healthcare. Supporters contend that unnecessary mandatory reviews can hinder professionals from fully engaging in innovative practices and adapting to changing healthcare needs. On the contrary, critics emphasize that voluntary reviews might result in inconsistencies in practice standards, which could ultimately compromise patient safety and care quality. The debate reflects broader tensions in health policy about how best to manage regulation in an evolving health landscape.