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HD 2345

An Act relative to physician assistant interstate compact

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Pat Duffy and 10 co-sponsors

Massachusetts joins physician assistant interstate compact allowing PAs to practice across multiple states with single license, improving healthcare access but reducing state regulatory independence.

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Bill Summary · HD 2345

Legislative bill overview

HD 2345 establishes Massachusetts' participation in the Physician Assistant Interstate Compact, a multi-state agreement that allows physician assistants (PAs) to practice across state lines under a single multistate license rather than obtaining separate licenses in each state. The compact creates standardized requirements for PA licensure, credentialing, and discipline while allowing individual states to maintain some regulatory oversight.

Why is this important

Healthcare workforce mobility directly affects access to care, particularly in rural and underserved areas where PA shortages are acute. By reducing licensing barriers, the compact could increase provider availability and lower healthcare costs associated with redundant credentialing processes. However, implementation affects state regulatory authority, interstate coordination mechanisms, and how disciplinary actions are handled across jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • State regulatory authority: Some argue the compact reduces Massachusetts' independent oversight capacity and creates conflicts between state law and compact requirements
  • Consumer protection consistency: Opponents worry about varying discipline standards across member states and whether Massachusetts patients receive equal protection
  • Implementation costs and complexity: Healthcare boards must establish new interstate verification systems, coordination protocols, and administrative infrastructure with unclear funding mechanisms

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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