Bill > A07988

This bill modifies existing New York state law to expand the practice capabilities of physician assistants (PAs), allowing them to work with reduced physician supervision under specific conditions. For PAs employed by a health system or hospital, they can practice independently if they meet the institution's medical staff qualifications and are granted clinical privileges. Alternatively, PAs can practice without direct supervision if they meet three key criteria: they are licensed, have practiced more than 6,000 hours, and are working in primary care (defined broadly to include specialties like pediatrics, internal medicine, emergency medicine, and psychiatry). The bill outlines 17 specific functions these PAs can perform independently, ranging from taking patient histories and performing physical examinations to prescribing medications, ordering diagnostic tests, and providing telehealth services. The legislation also adjusts existing regulations about physician supervision, removes some previous restrictions on PA practice, and authorizes health commissioners to create additional implementation regulations. The changes aim to increase healthcare access by allowing experienced PAs more autonomy in delivering medical services, particularly in primary care settings. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7988