Bill > SB951

This bill establishes a licensing and regulatory system for anesthesiologist assistants (AAs) under the State Board of Physicians, defining an anesthesiologist as a physician licensed and trained in anesthesiology, and an anesthesiologist assistant as an individual licensed to perform authorized medical acts under the direct supervision of an anesthesiologist. The bill outlines the qualifications for licensure, including graduation from an accredited program and passing a certification exam, and details the application process, which involves a criminal history records check and fees. It also specifies that AAs must practice under a written supervision agreement with an anesthesiologist, who must be readily available and may not supervise more than four AAs at a time unless otherwise permitted by regulations. The bill further defines the scope of practice for AAs, which includes performing pre- and post-anesthesia evaluations, ordering certain medications under supervision, and assisting with anesthesia procedures, but prohibits them from independently prescribing or dispensing drugs. The State Board of Physicians is empowered to adopt regulations for licensure, renewal, supervision standards, continuing education, and disciplinary actions, which can include reprimands, probation, suspension, or revocation of a license for various offenses such as fraud, incompetence, or practicing outside their scope. The bill also sets forth procedures for temporary and expedited licensure, establishes fees to cover program costs, and allows for judicial appeals of the Board's decisions.