The bill amends various sections of South Dakota law regarding the practice of physician assistants (PAs). Key changes include the introduction of new definitions such as "collaborating physician" and "collaboration," which clarify the relationship between PAs and physicians. The bill establishes that a collaborative agreement must be signed by both the PA and the collaborating physician, detailing the activities the PA is authorized to perform. It also specifies that a physician must be free from any disciplinary actions that would restrict their ability to collaborate. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that a signed copy of the collaborative agreement must be kept on file at the PA's primary practice site and approved by the board before the PA can begin practice.

Other amendments include the clarification that a PA is considered an agent of the collaborating physician in all practice-related activities delegated to them, and it outlines the responsibilities of the collaborating physician in ensuring proper patient care. The bill also states that nothing in this chapter authorizes a PA to perform abortions. Furthermore, it modifies the requirements for supervision and allows for the possibility of a physician collaborating with multiple PAs. The bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing PAs while ensuring patient safety and quality of care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/26/2025: 36-4A-1, 36-4A-1.1, 36-4A-4, 36-4A-20.1, 36-4A-26.1, 36-4A-26.2, 36-4A-26.3, 36-4A-29, 36-4A-29.1, 36-4A-37, 36-4A-42, 36-4A-29.2