The bill seeks to strengthen the regulation of physician assistants (PAs) in Kansas by implementing new licensure requirements and practice agreements. It mandates that all applicants for a PA license undergo a criminal history record check, including fingerprinting and submission to state and national databases, with the state board of healing arts authorized to collect fees for these checks. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which a PA's license may be revoked, reinforcing accountability. Additionally, it establishes that information from criminal history checks will remain confidential and outlines penalties for unauthorized disclosure, thereby ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed to practice as PAs.

Moreover, the bill amends existing statutes related to the practice of healing arts, defining the roles and responsibilities of supervising and collaborating licensees, and introducing new license designations for PAs, such as active and inactive licenses. It allows PAs to prescribe medications under specific conditions and expands their scope of practice, including the ability to continue practicing temporarily after losing their supervising physician. The bill also establishes a physician assistant council to advise the board and mandates the adoption of rules governing PA practice, ultimately aiming to enhance the regulatory framework while ensuring patient safety and professional accountability.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4714, 65-28, 65-28a02, 65-28a01, 65-28a12, 65-28a03, 65-2855, 65-28a04, 65-28a05, 60-4404, 60-4405, 65-28a06, 65-28a08, 65-425, 65-28a09, 65-28a11
As Amended by House Committee: 22-4714, 65-28, 65-28a02, 65-28a01, 65-28a12, 65-28a03, 65-2855, 65-28a04, 65-28a05, 60-4404, 60-4405, 65-28a06, 65-28a08, 65-425, 65-28a09, 65-28a11