Bill > HB1010

This bill modifies provisions relating to assistant physicians, creating a new pathway for medical school graduates who have not completed a residency to practice primary care in medically underserved areas or federally qualified health centers. The bill defines an "assistant physician" as a medical school graduate who is a U.S. resident or legal resident alien, has passed certain medical licensing examination steps, and is proficient in English. It establishes a comprehensive process for assistant physicians to transition to full physician licensure over a 60-month period, which includes completing specific postgraduate training across multiple medical specialties, accumulating hands-on collaborative practice experience, and obtaining recommendations from collaborating physicians. The bill requires assistant physicians to clearly identify themselves, work under a collaborative practice arrangement, and be reimbursed by health carriers similarly to other mid-level healthcare providers. The legislation also empowers the Board of Healing Arts to establish rules for licensure, renewal, supervision, and professional conduct, ensuring that assistant physicians can provide primary care services while maintaining rigorous standards of medical practice and patient safety.