PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PRACTICE
The proposed changes are significant as they reframe the practice dynamics between PAs and physicians, promoting a more independent practice model for PAs. This could lead to better access to healthcare services, especially in underserved areas, where the need for timely medical intervention is critical and there might be a shortage of physicians. By recognizing the clinical competencies of PAs, legislators anticipate improved patient care outcomes while also addressing the healthcare workforce shortages experienced in many regions.
HB2468 amends the Physician Assistant Practice Act of 1987, allowing physician assistants (PAs) to practice without a written collaborative agreement, provided they file a notarized attestation of completing at least 250 hours of continuing education and 2,000 hours of clinical experience after national certification. The bill enhances the autonomy of PAs by permitting them to prescribe, dispense, and administer drugs and medical devices independently, including controlled substances, without needing delegation from a physician in most circumstances. This reform aims to streamline healthcare delivery by expanding the roles and responsibilities of PAs within various medical settings, including hospitals and ambulatory surgical treatment centers.
However, the bill has sparked notable discussions about the implications of reducing supervisory requirements for PAs. Opponents express concerns regarding patient safety, fearing that the absence of collaborative agreements could lead to inconsistent care or mismanagement of complex medical cases. Proponents argue that trained and certified PAs are equipped to independently manage patient care and prescribe medications responsibly, emphasizing that the intentions behind the bill are to enhance healthcare availability without compromising care quality.