summary
Introduced
01/22/2026
01/22/2026
In Committee
03/27/2026
03/27/2026
Crossed Over
03/10/2026
03/10/2026
Passed
04/10/2026
04/10/2026
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
04/10/2026
04/10/2026
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amend KRS 311.840 to define terms; amend KRS 311.842, 311.848, 311.850, 202A.011, 202C.010, 216B.175, and 600.020 to change references to "supervising physician" to "collaborating physician" to conform; amend KRS 311.844 to include Schedule II controlled substances in the list of controlled substances authorized license holders may prescribe; amend KRS 311.858 to list the services a physician assistant may provide; require a physician assistant to consult and collaborate with or refer a patient to an appropriate licensed physician as indicated by the patient's condition and the standard of care; create a new section of KRS 311.840 to 311.862 to establish requirements for a collaboration agreement between a collaborating physician and a physician assistant; amend KRS 186.577 to allow physician assistants to administer driver vision tests; amend KRS 218A.202 to conform; repeal KRS 311.854, 311.856, and 311.860, relating to supervising physicians.
AI Summary
This bill makes several changes to the laws governing physician assistants (PAs) in Kentucky, primarily by updating terminology and expanding their scope of practice. Key provisions include changing the term "supervising physician" to "collaborating physician" throughout relevant statutes to better reflect the working relationship, and allowing PAs to prescribe Schedule II controlled substances, which are generally more potent and have a higher potential for abuse, in addition to previously allowed Schedules III, IV, and V. The bill also establishes clearer requirements for collaboration agreements between PAs and their collaborating physicians, outlining the essential components of these agreements. Additionally, it permits PAs to administer driver vision tests, aligning their capabilities with other healthcare professionals for this specific task, and repeals outdated sections of the law related to supervising physicians.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 94) (on 04/10/2026)
Taxonomy
Health
- ‐ Regulation of Doctors and Health Facilities
- ‐ Regulation of Drug Industry and Pharmacies
- ‐ Regulation of Health-Related Occupations and Services
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
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