This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the professional autonomy of physician assistants by allowing them to own businesses and clarifying their status within the medical community. It introduces a new section, 30-3E-21, which permits physician assistants to have ownership interests in medical corporations, while stipulating that they cannot receive licenses or authorizations for referrals where they have a proprietary interest. The bill aligns the definition of "physician assistant" with terminology used by the American Academy of Physician Associates and designates the profession as a "professional service" under the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act. Additionally, it expands the grounds for professional discipline to include physician assistants, outlining reasons for license denial or disciplinary action, and mandates written disclosure of proprietary interests to patients.

Moreover, the bill removes statutory requirements for physician oversight, allowing physician assistants to operate independently without collaborative agreements or supervision. It nullifies existing collaborative agreements and supervisory protocols upon the bill's effective date, enabling physician assistants to perform all acts they are trained and licensed to do. The bill also clarifies the requirements for medical corporations to obtain a certificate of authorization, expanding the definition of eligible shareholders to include licensed physician assistants. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for medical practice in West Virginia while ensuring public safety and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-3-14, 30-3-15, 31B-13-1301, 30-3E-21