AK SB44

Allows physician assistants to prescribe non-controlled drugs without conducting a physical examination if another licensed health care provider in the practice is available for follow-up care and records are sent to the patient's primary care provider upon consent.

Permits physician assistants to prescribe controlled substances and botulinum toxin without physical examination only when an appropriate licensed health care provider is physically present with the patient to assist with examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Prohibits prescribing drugs in response to Internet questionnaires or electronic mail to persons with whom the prescriber does not have a prior physician-patient relationship.

Requires the State Medical Board to adopt regulations establishing guidelines for physicians and physician assistants rendering diagnosis or treatment without physical examination, including nationally recognized model policies for standards of care.

Directs the Department of Health to adopt and regularly update a preferred drug list and prior authorization medications list for the medical assistance program, and pursue cost savings measures including negotiated rates and rebates on covered outpatient drugs.