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Bill

Bill

SB 5815

Concerning the physician assistant compact.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Conway and 6 co-sponsors

Washington joins multi-state Physician Assistant Compact enabling single-license interstate practice to expand healthcare workforce mobility.

By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
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Bill Summary · SB 5815

Legislative bill overview

SB 5815 would authorize Washington State to join the Physician Assistant Compact, an interstate agreement that allows licensed physician assistants to practice across multiple member states under a single license. The compact streamlines credential verification and reciprocity, reducing administrative barriers for PAs seeking to work in different states.

Why is this important

This affects healthcare workforce mobility and access to care. By removing licensing friction, the compact could help address physician assistant shortages in underserved areas and reduce healthcare costs associated with duplicate licensing fees and administrative delays. It also impacts healthcare providers' ability to practice across state lines, particularly relevant for telehealth and border regions.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory consistency concerns: Critics may worry that streamlined reciprocity could allow PAs with lower standards from some states to practice in Washington without additional vetting, potentially affecting patient safety standards.
  • Scope of practice variation: Different states grant PAs varying levels of autonomy and supervision requirements; the compact may create confusion about what PAs can actually do in Washington compared to their home state.
  • Local healthcare economics: Rural healthcare providers might benefit from easier PA recruitment, while urban medical institutions may face increased competition for qualified practitioners, affecting local employment dynamics.

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

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