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HB 974

Anesthesiologist assistants; provide for licensure and regulation by Board of Medical Licensure.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Bell and 4 co-sponsors

Mississippi bill to license and regulate anesthesiologist assistants under medical board oversight, establishing qualifications and practice standards for these medical professionals.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 974

Legislative bill overview

HB 974 would establish a new licensing and regulatory framework for anesthesiologist assistants in Mississippi under the Board of Medical Licensure. The bill creates statutory authority for these medical professionals to practice anesthesia under physician supervision, defining their qualifications, scope of practice, and oversight requirements.

Why is this important

Anesthesiologist assistants are increasingly employed in surgical and procedural settings nationwide to address workforce shortages and improve patient access to anesthesia services. Formalizing their licensure in Mississippi would provide legal clarity, ensure standardized training requirements, and establish accountability mechanisms—potentially improving patient safety and healthcare delivery efficiency in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Defining what procedures anesthesiologist assistants can perform independently versus requiring physician presence or supervision may create friction between physician groups and assistant advocates
  • Patient safety concerns: Opponents may argue that expanded roles for non-physician practitioners in anesthesia could increase risks, while proponents contend proper regulation actually enhances safety
  • Economic competition: Physician anesthesiologists might resist licensure as a threat to their market share and reimbursement rates, even as healthcare systems favor cost-effective staffing models

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

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