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SB 764

Health Care - As enacted, establishes licensure of anesthesiologist assistants; revises provisions authorizing hospitals to employ certain licensed physicians for certain medical services. - Amends TCA Title 47; Title 63 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

Tennessee law now licenses anesthesiologist assistants and clarifies hospital physician employment authority for specific medical services.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 509
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Bill Summary · SB 764

Legislative bill overview

SB 764 establishes a new licensure pathway for anesthesiologist assistants in Tennessee and modifies hospital employment provisions for certain licensed physicians. The bill amends state health care regulatory codes (TCA Titles 47, 63, and 68) to create professional standards and oversight for this healthcare role.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses a potential healthcare workforce gap by formally recognizing anesthesiologist assistants as licensed professionals, which could improve operating room staffing flexibility and patient access to anesthesia services in hospitals. The bill also clarifies hospital authority to employ physicians for specific medical services, affecting how healthcare facilities structure their clinical teams and service delivery.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Questions about what specific duties anesthesiologist assistants can perform independently versus under physician supervision, and how this compares to existing anesthesia provider roles (CRNAs, anesthesiologists)
  • Training and credential requirements: Debate over educational standards, certification requirements, and whether existing qualifications from other states are recognized or if new Tennessee-specific training is mandated
  • Professional turf concerns: Potential resistance from physician anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists regarding competition, billing authority, or patient safety implications of a new licensed category

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

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