Currently, Kentucky physician assistants (PAs) practice under the supervision of a physician. This supervising physician delegates the health care tasks that the PA may perform. The relationship is formalized using a written supervision agreement that lays out what treatments and services are authorized. Under SB 88, PAs would practice in collaboration with physicians.

PAs would now practice according to a written collaborative agreement with a physician. This is a written document that is mutually developed and outlines the communication and collaboration procedures between the PA and physician. This agreement would need to include:

1. A description of the PA’s scope of practice;
2. Communication and decision-making processes for the PA and other members of the health care team; and
3. The signatures of both the PA and collaborating physicians.

Collaboration would not require the physical presence of the physician, and the level of collaboration would be determined at the practice level. One physician could collaborate with up to four other PAs, and the state board of medical licensure would need to be notified within five days of the termination of an agreement.

The majority of states allow nurse practitioners to practice independently. More recently, many states have been giving more freedom and autonomy to PAs, ranging from reduced oversight requirements all the way to full independence. SB 88 is squarely within this trend. If you would like additional information, to read the language of the bill or to contact the sponsors or committee, you can find the information you need through these links SB 88.