This bill amends Kansas healthcare laws to enhance the roles of physical therapists and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). It permits licensed physical therapists to conduct specific CLIA-waived capillary blood tests, such as lactate and blood glucose tests, for muscle metabolism and rehabilitation purposes, provided they obtain written patient consent and do not bill third-party payers for these tests as standalone services. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "healthcare provider" to include APRNs, who are now required to maintain professional liability insurance as a condition of active licensure. The bill also increases the minimum coverage limits for resident healthcare providers and extends these requirements to APRNs starting January 1, 2028, while deleting language regarding "not-for-profit" corporations to simplify the definition of healthcare providers.

Moreover, the bill modifies licensing and insurance requirements for nonresident healthcare providers, mandating continuous professional liability insurance coverage and providing exemptions for certain healthcare professionals after specific dates. It restructures the board of governors overseeing the healthcare stabilization fund by increasing its membership from 11 to 12 and clarifying the fund's liabilities and payment guidelines. The bill establishes that healthcare providers will not be vicariously liable for the actions of other qualified providers and introduces new reserve funds. Coverage options for healthcare providers will be limited, with a minimum requirement of $1,000,000 per claim and $3,000,000 in the aggregate, while also clarifying that the fund will not cover claims related to a provider's sexual acts. Certain sections of the Kansas Statutes Annotated are repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 40-3401, 39-923, 75-6102
As Amended by House Committee: 40-3401, 39-923, 75-6102, 40-3403
As Amended by Senate Committee: 40-3401, 39-923, 75-6102, 40-3402, 40-3403
Enrolled: 40-3401, 39-923, 75-6102, 40-3402, 40-3403