CA SB1453

Requires the first 10 of 25 supervised flexible fiber optic transnasal endoscopic procedures to be supervised by a licensed physician and surgeon who performs nasal endoscopy, with the subsequent 15 procedures supervised by either a physician and surgeon or a verified competent speech-language pathologist.

Authorizes speech-language pathologists to perform fiber optic transnasal endoscopic procedures at locations based on patient medical needs upon orders of a licensed physician and surgeon, rather than requiring direct authorization of an otolaryngologist and supervision of a physician and surgeon.

Requires speech-language pathologists performing procedures on patients with contraindications to consult and document clearance with a physician and surgeon that the procedures can be safely performed, with contraindications including bilateral nasal obstruction, refractory epistaxis, cardiac disorders with vasovagal risk, severe bleeding disorders, and inability to cooperate with examination.

Clarifies that passage of endoscopic instruments without a physician and surgeon present is subject to prohibitions against construing the procedure as diagnosis and requiring referral of any abnormalities to a physician and surgeon.