Bill > HB458

This bill amends Montana law to include physician assistants in the definition of "health care provider" for medical malpractice cases, specifically within the statute that limits noneconomic damages in medical malpractice lawsuits. The bill maintains the existing $250,000 cap on noneconomic damages (which includes things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship) for claims against healthcare providers, but now explicitly includes physician assistants among the professionals covered by this limitation. The legislation applies to both future and existing malpractice claims, ensuring that physician assistants are treated similarly to other healthcare providers in medical malpractice legal proceedings. By adding physician assistants to the definition, the bill recognizes their professional status and provides clarity about their legal standing in medical malpractice cases. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and approval, meaning it can be applied to current and future legal cases involving physician assistants.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3507