The bill H. 3579 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to improve the regulation and practice of physician assistants (PAs) in the state. It introduces provisions that allow PAs with substantial postgraduate clinical experience to practice based on an attestation statement, which outlines the medical and surgical acts they are authorized to perform. The bill also permits certain PAs licensed in other states to provide emergency care in South Carolina under specific conditions, while limiting their liability. Additionally, the composition of the State Board of Medical Examiners will be revised to include two PAs, ensuring their representation in regulatory matters. Other amendments include updates to definitions related to medical practice, requirements for writing prescriptions, and the delegation of tasks to medical assistants.

Moreover, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of supervising physicians, including the need for continuous supervision and the establishment of written scope of practice guidelines for PAs. It emphasizes the importance of documentation in patient records and outlines the conditions under which PAs can prescribe medications, including controlled substances. The bill also addresses disciplinary actions against PAs for misconduct, ensuring due process for respondents, and allows PAs to bill directly for services rendered within their scope of practice. Additionally, it mandates that student athletes removed from play due to potential concussions must receive written medical clearance from a physician or PA before returning, thereby enhancing patient safety and access to medical services.

Statutes affected:
12/12/2024: 40-47-937, 40-47-939, 40-47-10, 40-47-20, 40-47-113, 40-47-195, 40-47-196, 40-47-910, 40-47-915, 40-47-935, 40-47-965, 40-47-1000, 40-47-1005, 40-47-1020, 44-80-120, 44-99-10, 59-63-75, 59-63-95
Latest Version: 40-47-937, 40-47-939, 40-47-10, 40-47-20, 40-47-113, 40-47-195, 40-47-196, 40-47-910, 40-47-915, 40-47-935, 40-47-965, 40-47-1000, 40-47-1005, 40-47-1020, 44-80-120, 44-99-10, 59-63-75, 59-63-95