This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow physician assistants to own businesses and participate as shareholders in medical corporations, recognizing their profession as a professional service under the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. It introduces provisions that deny licenses or other authorizations for physician assistants with a proprietary interest in referrals, mandating disclosure of such interests to patients. The bill also expands the scope of professional discipline to include physician assistants, outlining grounds for license denial and disciplinary actions related to unprofessional conduct and financial interests in clinical laboratories or pharmacies.

Additionally, the bill revises existing laws concerning the licensure and disciplinary actions of physicians and podiatrists, allowing those with revoked licenses due to drug-related felonies to reapply after completing their sentences. It establishes that only licensed physicians or physician assistants can be shareholders in medical corporations and clarifies the application process for these entities. The bill emphasizes the board's responsibility to report criminal activity by licensees and mandates the development of rules defining misconduct. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance accountability, ethical standards, and regulatory oversight within the medical profession in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-3-14, 30-3-15, 31B-13-1301
Committee Substitute: 30-3-14, 30-3-15, 31B-13-1301