Team Based Health Care Act
The enactment of the Team Based Health Care Act is expected to have significant implications on existing state healthcare practices. By mandating the formation of patient care teams, the bill seeks to enhance the quality of care provided to patients while encouraging healthcare professionals to work collaboratively. This legislation is particularly important for rural and underserved areas, as it includes incentives for healthcare professionals to practice in these regions, potentially alleviating healthcare access issues.
Bill S0669, known as the 'Team Based Health Care Act', aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing a framework for team-based healthcare delivery. This legislation establishes a requirement that Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), Physician Assistants (PAs), and Anesthesiologist's Assistants (AAs) practice as part of a patient care team across all practice settings, promoting a collaborative approach to patient care. The bill also creates the Team Based Health Care Committee, which is tasked with assisting regulatory boards concerning team-based healthcare practice in South Carolina.
Noteworthy concerns surrounding the bill relate to the practical implications of implementing team-based care within existing healthcare systems. Some healthcare professionals have expressed worries regarding the requirement for APRNs and PAs to work under the supervision of a patient care team physician, fearing it may constrain their autonomy and decision-making ability. Further, there are reservations about the adequacy of training and resources for healthcare teams to ensure they can effectively collaborate, particularly in rural settings where staffing might be limited.