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HB 267

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS SUPERVISING OTHERS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jenifer Jones and 1 co-sponsor

New Mexico bill would allow physician assistants to supervise healthcare workers, expanding their practice scope to address workforce shortages and improve care access in underserved areas.

action postponed indefinitely
#health&healthfacilities #licensure
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Bill Summary · HB 267

Legislative bill overview

HB 267 would modify New Mexico's physician assistant (PA) licensure and practice regulations to allow PAs to supervise other healthcare workers, expanding their scope of practice beyond current state law. The bill addresses workforce challenges by enabling PAs to take on supervisory roles typically reserved for physicians or advanced practice professionals.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects healthcare delivery capacity in New Mexico, particularly in underserved rural areas where physician shortages are acute. By expanding PA autonomy, the state could increase access to care and reduce administrative bottlenecks, though it also raises questions about patient safety oversight and professional hierarchy in medical settings.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician oversight concerns: Medical boards and physician organizations may argue that supervisory authority should remain with licensed physicians to ensure patient safety and accountability
  • Scope creep and training adequacy: Questions about whether PA education and training sufficiently prepare them for supervisory responsibilities, including liability and clinical decision-making authority
  • Impact on other healthcare professions: Nurses, nurse practitioners, and other regulated professions may contest how supervisory relationships are defined and whether this creates conflicts with their own scope of practice

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

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