Bill > HB2468

This bill expands the practice authority for physician assistants in Illinois by allowing them to provide a broader range of medical services with less physician oversight. Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement for physician assistants to have a written collaborative agreement with a physician after meeting certain experience and education requirements. Physician assistants who have completed at least 250 hours of continuing education and 2,000 hours of clinical experience after obtaining national certification can now practice without a collaborative agreement. The bill grants physician assistants the ability to prescribe medications, including controlled substances (Schedules II-V), without requiring delegation from a physician. They can prescribe, dispense, order, administer, and procure drugs and medical devices independently. The scope of practice includes comprehensive medical services such as performing physical examinations, diagnosing and treating medical conditions, ordering diagnostic studies, and providing patient education. However, the bill explicitly states that physician assistants cannot perform operative surgery, though they may assist in surgical procedures. The legislation aims to increase access to medical care by providing physician assistants with more autonomy in their professional practice.

Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2468&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104