Plain English Summary
This bill allows physician assistants (PAs) with significant experience to practice in team-based settings (like hospitals and clinics) without direct physician supervision, while maintaining some oversight for certain procedures. It also transfers regulation of nurse practitioners and nurse midwives from a joint Medical Board-Nursing Board subcommittee to the Board of Nursing alone, and increases physician assistant representation on the Medical Board from one to two members.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this bill addresses healthcare workforce shortages by expanding PA independence in established team settings where quality oversight already exists, potentially improving patient access to care. They contend that experienced PAs (4,000+ hours) with specialty training don't need individual physician supervision when working in credentialed facilities with quality programs, reducing administrative burden. Transferring nurse practitioner and nurse midwife regulation to the Board of Nursing streamlines decision-making for these nursing professions, and adding another PA to the Medical Board gives PAs greater voice in their own regulation.
Arguments Against
Opponents worry this bill reduces physician oversight of PAs in ways that could compromise patient safety, especially since team-based supervision is determined by employers rather than mandated directly. They argue removing the Medical Board from nurse practitioner and midwife regulation eliminates physician input on decisions affecting patient care and creates fragmented oversight between physicians and nurses. Some may be concerned that weakened supervision requirements could lead to inconsistent standards of care across different team-based settings.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 45
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 25
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 10
Cosponsors (6)
Vote Breakdown (1 roll call)
Final Vote
On: Second Reading
Party Breakdown