This bill amends current New Jersey law to establish a certification process for orthopedic assistants, defining them as professional physician extenders who meet specific criteria set by the National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Physician Assistants (NBCOPA). The legislation grants the Physician Assistant Advisory Committee and the State Board of Medical Examiners the authority to evaluate candidates for certification, which includes passing a certification examination and maintaining compliance with NBCOPA requirements. The bill also prohibits individuals from practicing as orthopedic assistants or using the title without valid certification, which must be renewed every two years.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities and limitations of orthopedic assistants, emphasizing that they must operate under the supervision of a licensed orthopedic physician. The services they are permitted to perform include patient evaluations, assisting in surgeries, and applying orthopedic devices, among others. A formal delineation of these services must be established and filed with the committee, along with proof of malpractice insurance. The bill aims to ensure that only qualified individuals can practice as orthopedic assistants, thereby enhancing the quality of care in orthopedic settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:9-27.23, 45:9-27.26