Senate Bill 461 aims to establish a new chapter in the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the practice of anesthesiology, specifically focusing on the licensure and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants. The bill defines key terms such as "anesthesiologist," "anesthesiologist assistant," and "supervision," and outlines the powers and duties of the board responsible for overseeing the licensure process. It stipulates that individuals must be licensed to practice as anesthesiologist assistants and details the qualifications required for licensure, including education, certification examinations, and the payment of fees. The bill also establishes the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants, emphasizing that they must work under the supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist and can only perform duties delegated to them.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding the composition of the board of medical examiners by replacing one of the non-physician members with an anesthesiologist assistant. This change is intended to ensure that the board includes representation from professionals directly involved in the practice of anesthesiology. The act will take effect upon becoming law for the purpose of promulgating rules, while all other provisions will be effective starting January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-6-101(a)(2), 63-6-101