Assembly Bill 438 proposes significant changes to the legal framework surrounding physician assistants in Wisconsin, specifically by adopting the title "physician associate" for these professionals. The bill amends various statutes to reflect this new terminology, including the creation of the "Physician Associate Affiliated Credentialing Board" and allowing physician associates to practice independently under certain conditions. To qualify for independent practice, a physician associate must complete 7,680 hours of clinical practice under the supervision of a physician or through a collaborative agreement, maintain documentation of professional relationships with physicians, and participate in quality assurance programs.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific provisions for physician associates regarding the treatment of pain syndromes using invasive techniques, which can be performed independently if they meet the necessary qualifications. It also mandates that physician associates who qualify for independent practice participate in the Injured Patients and Families Compensation Fund, ensuring they have excess medical malpractice coverage. The bill aims to modernize the role of physician associates in the healthcare system, enhancing their autonomy while maintaining patient safety and care quality.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 14.835, 15.085(1m)(b), 15.085, 15.406(7)(intro.), 15.406, 50.39(3), 50.39, 111.335(4)(jm), 111.335, 440.035(2m)(b), 440.035, 440.035(2m)(c)1.(intro.), 448.971(1), 448.971, 448.971(2), 448.972(1), 448.972, 448.972(3), 448.9725(2), 448.9725, 448.9725(3), 448.9725(4)(a), 448.9725(4)(b), 448.9727(2)(a)(intro.), 448.9727