Bill > S1511

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for surgical assistants in Massachusetts, creating a new board of registration and defining the professional requirements for these healthcare workers. The legislation defines a surgical assistant as an individual licensed to work under direct supervision of a licensed doctor, performing specific surgical tasks such as organ manipulation, tissue suturing, hemostatic agent placement, and other surgical support functions. The bill mandates that surgical facilities can only employ surgical assistants who are licensed by the new board, with provisions for temporary waivers in special circumstances. To obtain a license, applicants must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, and meet specific credentialing requirements, such as having certification from recognized national surgical assistant organizations or having prior professional experience. The bill also establishes continuing education requirements, mandating that licensed surgical assistants complete 38 hours of approved continuing education every renewal period and subjecting them to potential random audits. Additionally, the bill creates a five-member board of registration for surgical assistants, appointed by the governor, which will have broad powers to regulate the profession, including issuing licenses, establishing professional standards, and disciplining licensees who violate professional codes of conduct.