Permits physician assistants to practice without a physician's direct supervision and receives direct payments from Medicaid.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Physician Assistant Independence

This bill would change how physician assistants (PAs) are allowed to practice medicine in Rhode Island. Currently, PAs are required to work under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. This legislation would remove that requirement, allowing PAs to see and treat patients independently, without needing a supervising doctor overseeing their work. It would also allow PAs to be paid directly by Medicaid, the government health insurance program for low-income individuals, rather than having payments routed through a supervising physician's practice.

The bill would most directly affect physician assistants themselves, who would gain greater professional independence and flexibility in where and how they practice. It would also affect patients — particularly those in underserved or rural areas — who might gain easier access to healthcare if PAs can open their own practices or work in settings where physicians are not readily available. Healthcare facilities and physician practices that currently employ PAs could also see changes in how they structure their operations.

Supporters of similar measures in other states have argued they help address doctor shortages and improve healthcare access. Those with concerns have raised questions about patient safety and the appropriate level of medical oversight. Currently, the bill has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and recommended for further study, meaning lawmakers are still reviewing it before deciding whether to move it forward.