The Senate Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee today (June 8) unanimously approved legislation introduced by Senator Joe Pittman to help physician assistants work and practice with increased efficiency in Pennsylvania.
Senate Bill 397 amends the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act and Senate Bill 398 amends the Medical Practice Act of 1985 to modernize and advance the practice of physician assistants. The bills now go to the full Senate for consideration.
“Pennsylvania is one of the premier states for physician assistant education with more than 20 programs currently in the state. While many physician assistants receive their education from programs here, current legislation makes it less appealing for them to stay in Pennsylvania,” Senator Pittman said. “These bills provide reforms that will encourage more physician assistants to practice in the Commonwealth, which will enhance the diverse range of medical professionals across our healthcare delivery system.”
Video of the committee meeting.
Contact: Jeremy Dias jdias@pasen.gov