Alaska Senate Passes Bill for Independent Physician Assistants

0:00The latest headlines, weather, and stories, right here on Anchorage News today. The Alaska Senate just passed a bill letting physician assistance practice independently after 4,000 hours of supervised work. This ends the current rule, requiring them to team up with a doctor under a formal agreement. The vote was unanimous, 18-0 with two senators absent. Supporters point out that these agreements create extra paperwork and hurdles, especially in remote spots where finding doctors is tough. About 15% of doctors signing off on these plans live out of state, driving up costs for Alaskans who already pay some of the nations. Highest health care bills. Providers in rural areas, like Bristol Bay and Kenai, cheered the move. They say it keeps care flowing without constant doctor oversight, protecting patients from losing their main provider if agreements fall through. Doctors opposing it argue physician assistance lack the deep training for medical school and residency needed for tricky cases. Groups like the Alaska Primary Care Association want a higher bar, like 10,000 hours,

1:03similar to some other states. The bill heads to House committees next. Lawmakers picked 4,000 hours as a compromise after talking with experts, matching places like North Dakota while others demand more. The Daily News Now is grateful to our sponsor for today's episode. A pillow that sounds as good as it feels. Built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-SOLI-PILLOW.com.