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HB 377

Physician Assistants and Midwives - Parity With Other Health Care Practitioners

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 12 co-sponsors

HB 377 would expand physician assistant authority in Maryland, granting increased clinical independence and practice parity with other licensed healthcare providers to improve access.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 223
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Bill Summary · HB 377

Legislative bill overview

HB 377 seeks to establish parity between physician assistants (PAs) and other healthcare practitioners in Maryland, likely by expanding PA scope of practice, independence, or regulatory authority. The bill appears aimed at removing restrictions that differentiate PAs from similarly-trained professionals like nurse practitioners. The specific legislative changes will be detailed once the bill text becomes available.

Why is this important

PAs currently operate under supervision requirements in many states, which can limit healthcare access and efficiency, particularly in underserved areas. Expanding PA authority could increase primary care capacity and reduce patient wait times, though it also affects the supervision and collaborative relationship model that currently governs PA practice. This change has implications for healthcare workforce utilization, provider income distribution, and patient care delivery models.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician opposition: The Maryland Medical Society may resist reducing physician oversight, citing patient safety and liability concerns, despite evidence from other states with independent PA practice
  • Scope of practice boundaries: Disagreement over which clinical services PAs should perform independently versus in collaboration with physicians, and whether full autonomy or modified independence is appropriate
  • Consumer protection and licensing: Questions about whether current PA education and certification adequately prepare practitioners for independent practice compared to alternative pathways (NP licensure, medical school)

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

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