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 emphasize 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 clarifies that PAs are agents of the collaborating physician and outlines the responsibilities of both parties in the collaborative agreement.

Further amendments include the removal of the previous requirement for a supervising physician and the introduction of new provisions regarding the responsibilities of collaborating physicians, including ensuring their availability during patient care. The bill also emphasizes that PAs must maintain a board-approved collaborative agreement to practice and outlines the consequences for practicing without such an agreement. Notably, the bill explicitly states that nothing in this chapter authorizes a PA to perform abortions. Overall, the revisions aim to modernize the regulatory framework governing PAs, enhancing their role within the healthcare system while ensuring patient safety and accountability.

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