Texas House Bill HB4352

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the scope of practice of physician assistants.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4352 will directly impact how healthcare services are delivered by physician assistants. It will enhance their ability to participate in patient care by streamlining collaboration with supervising physicians. The bill clarifies that while physician assistants must collaborate with physicians, their direct supervision can be more flexible, allowing them to perform medical tasks independently in emergencies or during volunteer efforts. This reform may help alleviate the healthcare provider shortage by empowering physician assistants to take on more responsibilities.

Summary

House Bill 4352 aims to amend the scope of practice for physician assistants in Texas. Specifically, the bill modifies existing provisions in the Occupations Code to allow physician assistants to provide a wider range of medical and surgical services that are within their education, training, and experience. The adjustments include revisions to the definitions of collaboration with supervising physicians and the conditions under which physician assistants can operate, particularly emphasizing the ability to provide care without constant oversight in certain situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns about patient safety and the adequacy of training for physician assistants to perform advanced medical tasks. Critics argue that loosening supervision requirements could lead to compromised patient care in situations where physician assistants operate with limited direct oversight. Additionally, there may be debates among physicians and healthcare organizations regarding the balance between enhancing access to care and maintaining the necessary safeguards to ensure safe and effective medical practice.