Florida 2023 Regular Session

Florida House Bill H1133

Introduced
2/24/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Engrossed
4/20/23  
Refer
4/21/23  
Engrossed
4/27/23  
Enrolled
4/27/23  
Passed
6/21/23  

Caption

Physician Assistant Licensure

Impact

The enactment of HB 1133 is set to have a significant impact on state laws governing healthcare professions in Florida. By updating the educational qualifications for physician assistants, the bill aims to both expand access to qualified practitioners in the healthcare field and ensure that licensure standards reflect current educational practices. This may enhance the quality of care available to residents, particularly in underserved areas where physician assistants play a vital role in healthcare delivery.

Summary

House Bill 1133 aims to revise the requirements for obtaining a license as a physician assistant in Florida. The bill proposes changes to the educational criteria for applicants, distinguishing between those who graduated from approved programs after and before specified dates. Changes include allowing those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree and those who completed an accredited program to become eligible for licensure. The revisions intend to address evolving standards in medical education and professional certification.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1133 appears to be largely positive among healthcare professionals and organizations that support increased access to qualified medical providers. Proponents argue that revising the licensure requirements will better reflect the ongoing advancements in healthcare education. However, there may be concerns from some stakeholders about maintaining quality standards and ensuring that all applicants meet rigorous competency criteria.

Contention

While the revisions are primarily focused on updating educational requirements, there are points of contention that could arise regarding the acceptability of certain educational programs and the balance between accessibility and quality. Some critics may argue that the changes could allow for a less rigorous pathway to licensure, sparking debate on the adequacy of the existing training for future physician assistants in Florida. These discussions will likely focus on the implications of easing qualification standards in a field that is critical to public health.

Companion Bills

FL S0454

Similar To Physician Assistant Licensure

Similar Bills

ME LD1166

An Act to Change the Professional Title and Identification of Physician Assistants to Physician Associates

OK HB2051

Practice of medicine; creating the Supervised Physicians Act; limiting scope of supervised practice; directing specified Boards to promulgate certain rules; requiring collaborative practice arrangements; creating certain exemptions; effective date.

CA SB806

Healing arts.

CA SB1463

Physician assistants: written examination.

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

NM HB266

Supervision Of Physician Assistants

HI SB764

Relating To Physician Shortage.