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PC 1032

Para enmendar los Artículos 1, 2, 5; añadir un nuevo Artículo 5-A; enmendar los Artículos 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 de la Ley Núm. 71-2017, conocida como “Ley para Regular la Profesión de Médicos Asistentes de Puerto Rico”, y enmendar el Artículo 4 de la Ley 139-2008, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de la Junta de Licenciamiento y Disciplina Médica” a los fines de reconocer y regular la profesión de Asociado Médico Certificado; establecer sus requisitos de preparación académica, certificación, responsabilidades, ética profesional y procesos de educación continua; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico formalizes "Certified Medical Associate" profession with standardized academic requirements, certification standards, continuing education, and disciplinary oversight through amended medical licensing laws.

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Bill Summary · PC 1032

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 1032 amends Puerto Rico's medical assistant licensing law (Law 71-2017) and the medical licensing board law (Law 139-2008) to formally recognize and regulate "Certified Medical Associates" (Asociados Médicos Certificados) as a distinct healthcare profession. The bill establishes specific academic requirements, certification standards, professional responsibilities, ethical guidelines, and continuing education requirements for this new credential category.

Why is this important

This legislation creates regulatory clarity for a healthcare workforce segment that may currently operate in a legal gray area, potentially improving patient safety through standardized qualifications and oversight. It could expand access to healthcare services in Puerto Rico by formally legitimizing mid-level medical support professionals, while also protecting the public through defined professional standards and disciplinary mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Unclear definition of what tasks Certified Medical Associates can independently perform versus what requires physician supervision, which could create confusion or disputes with physicians
  • Education and certification standards: Questions about whether proposed academic requirements are appropriately rigorous or accessible, and whether existing practitioners can grandfather in under new standards
  • Professional competition: Physicians and other healthcare providers may object to expanded roles for medical associates, citing patient safety concerns or economic competition for patient care services

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

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