The proposed Anesthesiologist Assistant Licensure Act establishes a comprehensive framework for the licensure and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants in Kansas. It defines essential terms, such as "anesthesiologist" and "supervising anesthesiologist," and assigns the State Board of Healing Arts the responsibility for overseeing the licensure process. Applicants must complete an approved education program, pass a board examination, and undergo a criminal history check. The bill also introduces provisions for active and inactive licenses, including renewal and reinstatement processes, and sets fees for various licensing activities. It outlines grounds for disciplinary actions against licensed anesthesiologist assistants and prohibits unlicensed practice, with exceptions for students and emergency services.

Additionally, the bill allows for temporary licensure, enabling anesthesiologist assistants to provide patient services while awaiting full licensure, with a validity of one year and a possible extension. It delineates the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants, including assisting anesthesiologists and performing medical tasks, while restricting their authority to prescribe medications or practice without supervision. The legislation creates an anesthesiologist assistant council for advisory purposes and limits the number of assistants a supervising anesthesiologist can oversee to four. It also amends existing laws related to criminal history checks, ensuring confidentiality of records and establishing penalties for unauthorized disclosure, with provisions set to expire on July 1, 2029, unless renewed. The bill repeals certain sections of current law to update the regulatory framework governing anesthesia practices.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4714, 65-1163, 65-28, 65-28a02