West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB585

Introduced
2/7/22  
Refer
2/7/22  
Engrossed
2/22/22  
Refer
2/23/22  
Refer
2/23/22  
Enrolled
3/10/22  
Passed
3/23/22  

Caption

Creating administrative medicine license for physicians not practicing clinical medicine

Impact

The enactment of SB585 is anticipated to streamline healthcare management by allowing licensed physicians to take on administrative roles without the responsibilities tied to clinical practices. This is expected to enhance the efficiency of healthcare administration and improve organizational outcomes. The creation of a distinct path for administrative medicine licenses offers a clearer framework for those looking to specialize in healthcare management, thereby potentially increasing the number of qualified administrators in the healthcare system.

Summary

Senate Bill 585 establishes a framework for an administrative medicine license for physicians who do not engage in clinical practices. This legislation was created to address the need for professionals who can manage and oversee the administration of healthcare services, without being involved in direct patient care. The bill specifically denotes that individuals with this license will handle the integration of clinical medicine with operations, strategy, and other business aspects of healthcare delivery. However, it is crucial to note that those holding this license are explicitly barred from participating in any clinical roles, such as diagnosing patients or prescribing medications.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding SB585 appears to be largely supportive among legislative proponents who argue that this separation of clinical and administrative responsibilities will lead to improved healthcare management. The bill passed with significant support in the House, indicating a favorable view. However, there may be concerns among some healthcare professionals regarding the implications of dividing medical responsibilities and how this could affect care quality or accessibility in the state.

Contention

One significant point of contention surrounding SB585 is the potential for confusion regarding the roles of administrative licensees versus clinical practitioners. Some stakeholders may question the rationale behind allowing physicians to have significant administrative authority without direct clinical involvement, fearing this could lead to disconnects between healthcare delivery and administrative decisions. Additionally, the bill mandates that administrative licensees must fulfill ongoing educational requirements, which could add to the workload of practitioners who may already be managing numerous responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV SB714

Transferring duties and licensing from Board of Osteopathic Medicine to Board of Medicine

WV SB557

Relating to licensing by WV Board of Medicine

WV SB1088

Physicians; naturopathic medicine

WV HB1489

Naturopathic medicine; establishes licensure requirements for the practice.

WV SB627

Cannabis and cannabis products: medicinal use on an animal: veterinary medicine.

WV HB995

Medicine, Board of; temporary licensure of physicians licensed in a foreign country.

WV HB346

AN ACT relating to biosimilar medicines.

WV SB1613

Practice of medicine; creating the Graduate Physicians Act; providing for licensure and practice of graduate physicians; specifying certain requirements, limitations, penalties, and protections. Effective date.

WV H0533

Naturopathic Medicine

WV HB1054

Physicians - Licensing - Foreign Practicing Physicians

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