The bill amends various sections of Kansas law to enhance the regulation and availability of healthcare services, particularly focusing on emergency medical services and maternity care. It expands the definition of "healthcare provider" to include accredited maternity centers and clarifies that certain entities providing physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology services are not classified as home health agencies. The legislation also redefines the roles of emergency medical service providers, allowing them to operate under the orders of healthcare professionals and permitting nonemergency ambulance services to function for less than 24 hours a day.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the registration of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) with the emergency medical services board and modifies existing statutes to reflect these changes. It removes the requirement for emergency medical responders to communicate directly with a physician during certain procedures, allowing them to act under the authorization of a qualified healthcare provider. The bill also provides liability protections for individuals and entities involved in AED use and training, while repealing outdated sections of law. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the quality of care in emergency medical services and ensure that home health services adhere to established standards.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-5101
As Amended by Senate Committee: 65-5101
Enrolled: 65-6112, 65-6119, 65-6120, 65-6129a, 65-6135, 65-6144, 40-3401, 39-923, 75-6102, 65-5101, 65-6121, 65-6149a