Georgia House Bill HB54

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Report Pass: 2/26/25
• Engrossed: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/10/25
• Report Pass: 3/21/25

Caption

Health; advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to order home healthcare services; authorize

Impact

The proposed changes under HB54 significantly impact state laws concerning healthcare by expanding the roles of advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants in home health settings. These practitioners will now be allowed to order services which previously may have been limited to physicians, thus increasing the availability and efficiency of care. Moreover, the introduction of tax credits for qualified caregiving expenses can incentivize families to seek professional home care for their loved ones, promoting health equity and potentially reducing hospital readmissions.

Summary

House Bill 54 aims to authorize advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to order home healthcare services. This legislation amends several titles within the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically targeted at enhancing healthcare delivery models and increasing the scope of practice for these healthcare professionals. With this bill, qualified personnel will have the ability to order and manage home health services, which is seen as a step towards better healthcare access for patients in their homes, particularly in the context of an aging population that may require continuous care.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB54 appears to be positive, particularly from healthcare providers who support the bill's intention to streamline home healthcare services. Advocates argue that giving advanced practice nurses and physician assistants more authority enhances patient care and allows for timely interventions in home settings. However, there may be some apprehension regarding regulatory compliance and the training required for managing these additional responsibilities, as well as concerns from opponents who might see risks in expanding the scope of practice without adequate oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions around HB54 include the potential for conflicting interests when healthcare professionals who order services may have ownership stakes in the agencies providing those services. This raises ethical questions about patient care priorities versus business interests. As the bill progresses, stakeholders will likely continue to discuss the balance between increasing healthcare access and ensuring that patient welfare remains the primary focus of legislation.