The bill amends the Public Health Code to enhance the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances by allowing licensed prescribers to administer or dispense substances from schedules 2 to 5 without requiring a separate license. It establishes the necessity for a bona fide prescriber-patient relationship and mandates follow-up care to monitor treatment efficacy. Additionally, prescribers are required to inquire about other controlled substances a patient may be using and document this information in the patient's medical record. The bill also introduces new sections that outline fees for certified anesthesiologist assistants and clarifies definitions related to medical practice, while removing outdated provisions regarding the prescribing timeline and the requirement for prescribers to register with the electronic monitoring system.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth new provisions for the licensure and practice of certified anesthesiologist assistants (CAAs), including conditions under which applicants with prior sanctions can obtain licensure. It specifies that applicants with non-permanent sanctions unrelated to patient safety may be granted a license if they agree to a probationary period or treatment plan. The bill mandates that CAAs work under the supervision of an anesthesiologist, detailing the tasks they are authorized to perform, such as developing anesthesia care plans and managing airway support. It also establishes supervisory requirements for anesthesiologists, ensuring they remain in close proximity to CAAs and limiting the number of CAAs they can supervise simultaneously, thereby enhancing patient safety and care quality.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.7303