Bill > HB54

This bill expands the authority of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs) to order home healthcare services in Georgia. Specifically, the bill allows APRNs and PAs to order home health services, write treatment plans, and determine medical necessity of equipment and supplies, previously tasks reserved only for physicians. The legislation updates multiple sections of Georgia state law to explicitly include APRNs and PAs in definitions and authorization processes for home healthcare agencies. Key provisions include allowing these healthcare professionals to possess and administer certain medical items, create treatment plans, and be involved in home health agency inspections and patient care oversight. The bill also requires APRNs and PAs to complete biennial continuing education about death certificate documentation and adds a provision that the ordering professional cannot have an ownership interest in the entity to which they are referring services. Additionally, the bill updates tax credit regulations to recognize APRNs and PAs as authorized professionals who can determine medical necessity for qualified caregiving expenses. These changes aim to expand healthcare access and provide more flexibility in home healthcare service delivery by recognizing the expanded capabilities of advanced practice nurses and physician assistants.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69352