The bill revises the regulations governing physician assistants (PAs) in South Dakota, focusing on their practice criteria and responsibilities. It redefines "collaboration" to emphasize the importance of consulting or referring to appropriate healthcare providers based on patient needs and the PA's competencies. The term "supervising physician" has been removed, and PAs can now practice without a collaborative agreement if they are certified and have completed at least 2,080 practice hours. Additionally, the bill clarifies that PAs must provide documentation of their certification and practice hours to the board upon request. It also allows individuals licensed in other states to obtain a license in South Dakota, specifies that PAs cannot perform abortions, and outlines the medical services they are permitted to provide.

Moreover, the bill addresses the responsibilities and liabilities of PAs in emergency situations, stating that they are not liable for civil damages when providing emergency medical assistance outside of typical healthcare facilities. It also clarifies that both PAs and supervising physicians are protected from civil liability in these scenarios and introduces provisions for PAs to authenticate documents. The renewal process for PA licenses is streamlined, requiring annual renewal with proof of continued qualifications and completion of post-graduate studies. The bill allows PAs to bill for and receive direct payment for medically necessary services, while repealing several sections of current law related to supervision requirements, thereby enhancing the autonomy of PAs in their practice.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/17/2025: 36-4A-1, 36-4A-1.1, 36-4A-4, 36-4A-5, 36-4A-8, 36-4A-8.1, 36-4A-20.1, 36-4A-26.1, 36-4A-26.2, 36-4A-26.3, 36-4A-30, 36-4A-31, 36-4A-37, 36-4A-42, 36-4A-29, 36-4A-29.1, 36-4A-29.2, 36-4A-32, 36-4A-38