Hawaii Senate Bill SCR4

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 3/28/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Engrossed: 4/5/23
• Refer: 4/11/23
• Report Pass: 4/17/23
• Refer: 4/17/23

Caption

Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct An Analysis Of The Regulation And Licensure Of Associate Physicians.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would lead to an analysis of the implications of authorizing associate physicians to practice in Hawaii, which may affect existing state laws regarding medical licensure. The findings from the Auditor's review could lead to proposed legislative changes intended to enhance medical care accessibility while ensuring appropriate regulatory oversight over associate physicians.

Summary

SCR4 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the 2023 Legislative session that requests the Auditor to conduct a sunrise review regarding the regulation and licensure of associate physicians in Hawaii. The bill acknowledges that individuals who have graduated from accredited medical schools but have not been accepted into residency programs are currently ineligible for medical licensure in the state. It stems from an effort to allow these associate physicians to practice under specific regulations, thus addressing potential healthcare workforce shortages.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SCR4 is supportive among those advocating for expanded healthcare access through innovative solutions like the integration of associate physicians into the healthcare system. However, there may be opposition focused on concerns regarding the quality of care and adequate supervision needed for associate physicians, underscoring the need for careful consideration of regulatory measures to maintain healthcare standards.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the balance between the need for more medical practitioners in areas facing healthcare provider shortages and the implications of introducing a new category of medical provider. Critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of training and the potential risks to patient care if associate physicians are allowed to practice independently without sufficient oversight.