On 15 July 2019 Governor Gina Raimondo signed into law theThe PA Modernization Act of 2019  The Act makes significant updates to the RhodeIsland PA Practice Act that reflects the evolution of the education and role of PAs.

The major change in the law is a shift from a "supervisory" to a "collaborative" PA-Physician relationship.  As part of this change, PAs and physicians will no longer be required to have a detailed practice agreement.  In addition delegation of specific services will be no longer required and physicians will no longer be liable for all acts by the PA.

Other changes include:

• a revised definition of a PA
• Increase in the Category I CME requirements for PA license renewal from 10 to 25 hours annually
• Addition of a third PA to the RI Board of Licensure for PAs

The RIAPA advocacy team led by PA Jim Carney, Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs, along with lobbyist Patrick Quinlan worked tirelessly for over three years on the passage of this legislation.  Carson Walker,  AAPA Director for State Advocacy and Outreach and the Rhode Island Medical Society provided invaluable support.

To view the revised law click HERE

News

The National Law Review