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HB 2489

Physician assistants; Department of Health Professions to study expansion of scope of practice.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Helmer and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia law directs health regulators to study expanding physician assistant practice authority and report recommendations by December 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0569)
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Bill Summary · HB 2489

Legislative bill overview

HB 2489 directs Virginia's Department of Health Professions to conduct a comprehensive study on expanding the scope of practice for physician assistants (PAs). The bill requires the department to examine current PA regulations, identify barriers to practice expansion, and report findings to the legislature by December 1, 2025.

Why is this important

Scope of practice expansions can affect healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas where PAs may fill provider gaps. The study's recommendations could influence future legislation determining what medical tasks PAs can independently perform, which has implications for both healthcare workforce capacity and regulatory oversight of medical practice.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician concerns: Medical doctors' organizations may worry that expanded PA authority reduces physician oversight and could compromise patient safety or professional standards
  • Competition and economics: Expansion could shift patient volume and revenue from physicians to PAs, creating financial tensions in the healthcare marketplace
  • Patient safety debate: Disagreement exists over whether independent PA practice requires the same training as physician-led care, with questions about appropriate supervision levels and liability

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

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