The bill introduced by Representative Deeter seeks to amend various sections of the Ohio Revised Code to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for surgical assistants and surgical technologists. It amends multiple sections, including 109.572 and 4731.25, and enacts new sections such as 3702.3013 and 4787.01 through 4787.99. The legislation aims to ensure that individuals in these roles meet specific qualifications, including certification from recognized national boards, and mandates criminal background checks for applicants. Notably, it deletes references to section 4783.04 and inserts references to sections 4787.05 and 4787.15, indicating a shift in the regulatory approach for these professions. The bill also enhances the authority of the state medical board to enforce standards and conduct investigations related to the practice of surgical assistance.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the immediate suspension of licenses for individuals involved in trafficking in persons and outlines the process for license renewal, suspension, and reactivation. It establishes new reporting obligations for health care facilities regarding disciplinary actions and mandates that practitioners on probation disclose their status to patients. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of care and accountability among surgical assistants, including provisions for disciplinary actions based on misconduct and the establishment of a confidential monitoring program for impaired practitioners. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety and quality of surgical care in Ohio by ensuring that only qualified individuals are permitted to practice in these critical roles.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 109.572, 4731.051, 4731.07, 4731.071, 4731.224, 4731.2210, 4731.24, 4731.25, 4731.251, 4776.01, 4776.20