House Bill No. 138, introduced by Representative Dewitt, amends the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners' membership and operational structure. The bill increases the board's membership to include a physician assistant, bringing the total to ten voting members, all appointed by the governor and subject to Senate confirmation. It specifies that certain members must practice in designated congressional districts, ensuring representation from various regions of the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that at least every other member appointed from specific lists be a minority appointee, promoting diversity within the board.

The bill also revises the powers and duties of the board, particularly regarding the director of investigations. Instead of the board appointing this position, the executive director will now hire the director of investigations, who will be responsible for leading investigations into physician complaints and recommending disciplinary actions. This change shifts accountability from the board to the executive director, while also ensuring that the director of investigations is a licensed physician with significant experience in active medical practice. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB138 Original: 37:1263(B), 37:1270(B)
HB138 Engrossed: 37:1263(B), 37:1270(A)(9), 37:1263(C)(2)
HB138 Reengrossed: 37:1263(B), 37:1270(A)(9)