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HB 3890

Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Liz Campos

HB 3890 expands Texas physician authority to supervise and delegate drug/device prescribing to PAs and APRNs, potentially increasing healthcare access but raising patient safety and oversight concerns.

Referred to Public Health
#healthcareproviders(i0387) #medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #physicians(s1282)
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Bill Summary · HB 3890

Legislative bill overview

HB 3890 would expand the prescriptive authority of physician assistants (PAs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Texas by allowing physicians to supervise or delegate drug and device prescribing responsibilities to these mid-level practitioners. The bill clarifies the legal framework governing which healthcare decisions can be delegated and under what supervisory conditions.

Why is this important

This addresses a significant healthcare workforce issue in Texas, where PAs and APRNs represent a growing portion of primary care providers, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Clarifying delegation authority could improve patient access to care, reduce wait times, and allow physicians to manage larger patient panels more efficiently—though it also raises questions about patient safety oversight and scope creep.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient safety concerns: Medical boards and physician organizations may argue that delegated prescribing requires stricter oversight mechanisms and clearer liability assignment between supervising physicians and mid-level practitioners
  • Scope of practice expansion: Questions about which drug classes and devices can be delegated, and whether "delegation" versus "collaboration" represents meaningful physician oversight or represents de facto independent practice
  • Economic competition: Physicians may worry about competitive pressure on their practices, while healthcare systems may support expansion to reduce staffing costs and improve efficiency

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

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