Bill > HB423

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for surgical assistants in Ohio, creating a new licensing and oversight system administered by the state medical board. The bill requires surgical assistants to obtain a license to practice, with initial eligibility contingent upon being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma, and being certified by a national board of surgical technology and surgical assisting. Licenses will be valid for two years and renewable through a process that includes maintaining certification and completing continuing education. The bill mandates that hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities cannot employ surgical assistants who are not licensed or certified, with some limited exceptions for facilities granted waivers in areas with limited surgical care access. The legislation also establishes detailed disciplinary procedures, including potential license suspension or revocation for various professional misconduct violations, and creates reporting requirements for healthcare facilities and professionals regarding potential misconduct. Additionally, the bill imposes criminal penalties for practicing as a surgical assistant without a license, with penalties ranging from a first-degree misdemeanor to a fifth-degree felony for repeat offenses. The new regulations will be phased in over three to five years, allowing time for current practitioners to comply with the new licensing requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb423