Allows for the licensing of certified surgical first assistants to assist in surgeries through the department of health and a seven (7) member board of licensure.
The legislation is expected to significantly impact healthcare practices within Rhode Island by formalizing the role of surgical first assistants in surgical facilities. As a result of this bill, only individuals who have been licensed as certified surgical first assistants will be permitted to assist in surgeries, thus enhancing the quality of surgical care and setting a baseline standard for training and credentialing. Furthermore, the bill allows certain exemptions, permitting licensed healthcare providers such as registered nurses to perform surgical assistant duties without additional licensure, provided they operate within their scope of practice.
Bill S2874, introduced by Senator Sandra Cano, aims to establish a licensing framework for certified surgical first assistants in the state of Rhode Island. This framework includes the creation of a board of licensure that will oversee the certification process, which is designed to ensure that surgical first assistants meet necessary professional standards. The bill is structured to define the roles and responsibilities of certified surgical first assistants, emphasizing the importance of working under the direct supervision of licensed medical professionals during surgical procedures.
While the bill has gained support within the medical community for promoting safer surgical practices, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications for existing roles in surgical teams. Critics argue that the requirement for licensure could limit the flexibility of surgical practices, particularly in emergency situations or in facilities where licensed surgical first assistants may not be readily available. Additionally, there is a dialogue around the accessibility of the training and certification process, which may impose additional burdens on prospective assistants who seek to enter this field.