Bill > S0668

This bill establishes a framework for physician assistants (PAs) to practice without direct physician supervision in Florida, subject to specific registration requirements and practice limitations. To qualify for independent practice, a PA must obtain registration from the Council on Physician Assistants after meeting criteria such as holding an active, unencumbered license, having no recent disciplinary actions, completing at least 3,000 clinical practice hours in the past five years, and maintaining professional liability coverage of at least $100,000 per claim. Registered PAs may practice in primary care, family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, women's health, and psychiatry, and can perform general PA functions, including admitting, managing, and discharging patients from healthcare facilities. However, they are restricted from performing surgical procedures deeper than subcutaneous tissue and cannot issue physician certifications for certain purposes. The bill requires PAs to disclose their qualifications and independent practice status to new patients, mandates biennial registration renewal, and directs the council to establish practice standards in consultation with medical boards. The legislation aims to increase access to medical care by allowing experienced PAs more autonomy while maintaining patient safety through specific regulatory requirements.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/668