The bill amends the Public Health Code to establish the PA Licensure Compact, enabling Michigan to collaborate with other states in the licensure of Physician Assistants (PAs). This Compact aims to improve access to medical services by allowing PA licenses to be portable across participating states while maintaining patient safety. Key provisions include mutual recognition of licenses, a comprehensive licensing and disciplinary process, and specific definitions related to adverse actions and compact privileges. The bill also outlines requirements for PAs to exercise their compact privileges, such as holding a qualifying license and passing a national exam, while detailing the authority of participating states to impose consistent disciplinary measures.

Additionally, the bill creates the PA Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the regulation of PAs and handle disputes among states. The Commission will consist of delegates from each participating state and will have the authority to conduct investigations and take adverse actions based on findings from other states. The bill introduces amendments to existing laws governing the Commission, including requirements for public meetings and provisions for qualified immunity for Commission members. It also clarifies definitions related to podiatric medicine, recognizing individuals with compact privileges as authorized PAs and updating terminology for consistency. The legislation is designed to streamline the licensure process for PAs while ensuring accountability and compliance through the Commission's oversight.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 333.18001
House Introduced Bill: 333.18001
As Passed by the House: 333.18001