Senate Bill 9 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to physician employment, specifically targeting the regulations surrounding the employment of certain medical specialists, including radiologists, anesthesiologists, pathologists, and emergency physicians. The bill proposes to delete numerous subdivisions and subsections that previously restricted the employment relationships of these specialists, thereby allowing for greater flexibility in their employment arrangements. Notably, it removes language that excluded these specialists from certain definitions and provisions, which could enhance their ability to work in various healthcare settings.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language clarifying that there is no specific employment relationship required for the employment of the aforementioned specialists, as long as their employment complies with existing regulations. This change is intended to facilitate more diverse employment opportunities for these physicians, including direct employment and agreements with third parties. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the need for public welfare in the healthcare employment landscape.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-6-204, 63-6-204(d), 63-6-204(f)(1), 63-6-204(f)(4)(B)(ii), 63-6-204(g)(1), 63-6-204(h)(5)(A), 63-9-104(f)(3), 63-9-104, 68-11-205, 68-11-205(b)(1), 68-11-205(c)(1)