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Bill

HB 746

Physician assistants; authorization to practice without a practice agreement.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadarius Clark and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia HB 746 permits physician assistants to practice independently without physician supervision agreements, expanding healthcare access but removing traditional physician oversight safeguards.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · HB 746

Legislative bill overview

HB 746 would authorize physician assistants (PAs) in Virginia to practice independently without requiring a supervising physician through a formal practice agreement. Currently, Virginia law requires PAs to operate under physician oversight and a collaborative practice agreement. This bill would eliminate that requirement, allowing PAs to establish and manage their own practices.

Why is this important

This change would expand healthcare access in underserved areas where physician shortages exist, potentially reduce healthcare costs by allowing PAs to provide services independently, and increase professional autonomy for PAs. However, it fundamentally alters the regulatory relationship between PAs and physicians that has existed for decades and could affect quality assurance and patient safety oversight mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician opposition: The Virginia Medical Society and physician groups may argue this undermines physician oversight, patient safety standards, and the traditional hierarchical medical model that ensures quality control
  • Patient safety concerns: Critics may contend that PAs lack the extensive training physicians receive and that independent practice without physician review increases diagnostic and treatment errors
  • Scope of practice definition: The bill doesn't specify what medical services PAs could independently perform, creating uncertainty about whether all conditions could be treated or if limitations would apply

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

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