HB1251
To Establish The Arkansas Anesthesiologist Assistant Act; And To Provide For Licensure Of Anesthesiologist Assistants.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, the Arkansas Anesthesiologist Assistant Act, establishes a licensing framework for anesthesiologist assistants in the state. It defines the roles of anesthesiologists and anesthesiologist assistants, specifying that assistants must graduate from an approved program and be licensed to perform services under the direct supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist. The Arkansas State Medical Board is granted powers and duties, including licensing, renewing licenses, maintaining public records of licensees, and disciplining individuals who violate the subchapter. Applicants must pass a national examination and submit applications and fees to the board. A crucial element is the requirement for a written protocol to be filed with the board before an anesthesiologist assistant begins practice, outlining duties, supervisory arrangements, and emergency procedures. The bill enumerates specific duties an anesthesiologist assistant may perform under direct supervision, such as patient history intake, equipment calibration, airway management, drug administration, and insertion of venous and arterial lines. The supervising anesthesiologist is responsible for delegating tasks within their scope of practice, and the assistant can practice in settings consistent with the supervisor's scope. Documentation of the supervisory relationship and performed tasks is mandated.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
['Anesthesiologist assistants, by establishing a clear pathway for licensure and practice in Arkansas, would benefit from defined professional roles and regulatory oversight. Anesthesiologists and anesthesiology groups could benefit from the ability to hire and utilize licensed anesthesiologist assistants to augment their practice, potentially increasing efficiency and patient access to care. Patients seeking anesthesia services could also benefit from increased availability and potentially reduced costs associated with anesthesia care delivery. The Arkansas State Medical Board would gain the authority and framework to regulate this new professional category, ensuring standards are met.', 'healthcare facilities and surgical centers in Arkansas could benefit from the expanded availability of anesthesia care providers, potentially leading to increased operational capacity and improved patient throughput. The bill creates a new regulated profession, which could lead to the development of educational programs and job opportunities for graduates in the field.']
Who Might Suffer?
['The primary groups that could be negatively impacted are those whose established practices or professional roles might be altered by the introduction of a new category of anesthesia provider. This could include existing anesthesia providers like Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) or physicians who provide anesthesia services, depending on how the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants interacts with their own. There could also be concerns regarding the potential for increased competition or changes in billing and reimbursement structures. Furthermore, the Arkansas State Medical Board, while gaining new regulatory authority, might face increased administrative burdens and costs associated with implementing and enforcing the new licensure and oversight requirements.']