Tennessee House Bill HB1272

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, Chapter 19, Part 1 and Title 68, Chapter 11, relative to physician assistants.

Impact

If enacted, HB1272 would significantly alter the procedures surrounding the practice of physician assistants. It provides a structured approach to determining the scope of practice based on the educational qualifications and experience of physician assistants. Notably, the bill allows for varied supervision models, now permitting physicians not directly involved in a patient's care to collaborate with physician assistants. This change is aimed at increasing the accessibility of healthcare services across Tennessee, particularly in underserved areas where physician resources are limited.

Summary

House Bill 1272 aims to amend the existing regulations governing physician assistants in Tennessee. The bill updates various definitions and establishes new collaborative practices between physician assistants and physicians. It defines key terms such as 'physician assistant' and 'collaborating physician', and sets forth the framework for physician assistants to operate within healthcare settings. The bill's revisions promote a clearer understanding of the roles and responsibilities of physician assistants, thereby enhancing their effectiveness in providing healthcare services.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that these changes will improve healthcare delivery and enhance the role of physician assistants, concerns have been raised about potential overreach in their scope of practice. Critics fear that increasing prescriptive authority without stringent oversight might lead to patient safety issues. Moreover, there is apprehension regarding how these amendments might affect the traditional roles of physicians in patient care, potentially creating confusion over responsibilities in treatment protocols.