Establishes the "Physician Assistant Licensure Compact"
Impact
The bill significantly alters existing state laws governing physician assistant practice by prioritizing mutual recognition of licensure between participating states. Under this compact, a PA licensed in one participating state can practice in another without the need for additional state-specific licensure, provided they meet the defined requirements outlined in the new sections. This change aims to ease the regulatory process for PAs and enhance the availability of medical services in areas that may lack sufficient healthcare professionals.
Summary
House Bill 1388 enacts the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact, designed to facilitate improved access to healthcare services by allowing physician assistants (PAs) to practice across state lines with reduced regulatory burdens. The bill repeals previous legislation and establishes a new framework consisting of fourteen sections that guide the licensure, practice, and oversight of PAs. This new compact promotes portability of PA licenses among participating states, which is particularly beneficial for military families and individuals working in multiple states.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, HB 1388 raises some points of contention among various stakeholders. Critics argue that the compact could dilute state-level regulation and oversight of healthcare providers, potentially leading to variations in quality of care across state lines. Supporters counter that the compact includes provisions to ensure that participating states retain authority over the practice of PAs and that the safety of patients remains a priority. The tension between ensuring access to care and maintaining state regulatory authority will likely be a key debate as this bill progresses.