A bill for an act relating to the practice of physician assistants without supervision by a physician.
Impact
If enacted, SSB1142 would reform existing laws related to the practice of physician assistants significantly. By removing the supervision mandate, the bill encapsulates a broader move towards redefining roles within the healthcare system, emphasizing the autonomy of physician assistants. Proponents within the healthcare community assert that this change is crucial for adapting to the evolving landscape of patient care, especially in emergency situations where immediate medical response can save lives.
Summary
Senate Study Bill 1142 proposes significant changes to the practice regulations surrounding physician assistants in Iowa. The bill seeks to eliminate the requirement that physician assistants operate under the supervision of a licensed physician, allowing them to practice more independently. This shift is intended to address workforce shortages in healthcare and improve access to care, especially in rural areas where medical professionals are often scarce. Advocates for the bill argue that reducing bureaucratic barriers will foster more robust healthcare delivery options to underserved populations.
Contention
However, the bill has faced noteworthy opposition, primarily from segments within the medical field who express concerns regarding patient safety and quality of care. Critics argue that the absence of physician supervision could lead to inadequately trained personnel making complex medical decisions independently. Debates surrounding the bill reflect a tension between innovative healthcare delivery models and traditional practices that prioritize physician oversight. The legislative discourse highlights differing opinions on how best to equip healthcare workers to meet increasing demands in their field while still safeguarding patient health.
A bill for an act providing for the collaborative practice of physician assistants by allowing for the practice of physician assistants without supervision by a physician.(See HF 424.)
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.
Relating to the practice of advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants and the delegation of prescriptive authority by physicians to and the supervision by physicians of certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants.
Relating to the delegation and supervision of prescriptive authority by physicians to certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants.
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.
A bill for an act providing for the collaborative practice of physician assistants by allowing for the practice of physician assistants without supervision by a physician.(See HF 424.)
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.