The proposed bill, HB2113, seeks to expand the scope of practice for medical assistants in Arizona. Under the new legislation, medical assistants would be authorized to communicate documented medical advice, test results, and orders from a doctor of medicine, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner without the need for direct supervision. Additionally, they would be allowed to obtain, process, and communicate prior authorization for medications or procedures as ordered by these healthcare professionals. This marks a significant change from current law, which restricts medical assistants to performing tasks under direct supervision.

Current law allows medical assistants to perform various administrative tasks, such as billing and coding, scheduling, and recording patient information, but does not permit them to communicate medical advice or manage prior authorizations independently. The bill aims to enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery by enabling medical assistants to take on more responsibilities, thereby reducing the burden on supervising practitioners. The legislation is expected to have no fiscal impact on the state General Fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-1456
House Engrossed Version: 32-1456
Chaptered Version: 32-1456