This bill proposes to modify the title of "physician assistant" to "physician associate" in Minnesota law, specifically amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 147A.01 and 147A.03. The bill includes several key changes: it deletes the term "assistant" and replaces it with "associate" in the definition of a licensed professional, and it introduces new protected titles such as "Minnesota Licensed Physician Associate," "Licensed Physician Associate," and "PA." Additionally, the bill clarifies that the title change does not expand the scope of practice for these professionals and ensures that all existing relationships and contracts remain unaffected by the title change.

Furthermore, the bill directs the commissioners of health and human services, along with health-related licensing boards, to make necessary conforming amendments to their guidance and documents to reflect this title change. It also instructs the revisor of statutes to update all instances of "physician assistant" to "physician associate" throughout Minnesota Statutes and Minnesota Rules, allowing for grammatical adjustments as needed. This legislative change aims to standardize the terminology used for these healthcare professionals while maintaining their current rights and responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 147A.01, 147A.03