FL S1718

Creates licensure for "doctor of medical science" in Florida, a new credential for physician assistants who complete a minimum 2-year accredited doctoral medical science program.

Requires applicants to have at least 3 years of prior clinical practice experience as a licensed physician assistant, pass a proficiency examination, and demonstrate affiliation with a hospital, group practice, or physicians with complementary expertise.

Sets application and renewal fees at up to $500 each, with biennial license renewal requiring 100 hours of continuing medical education and acknowledgment of no felony convictions.

Restricts scope of practice such that doctor of medical science licensure does not confer the same practice authority as physicians under Florida medical or osteopathic medicine chapters.

Establishes authority for the Board of Medicine and Board of Osteopathic Medicine to deny, suspend, or revoke licenses for violations, with falsely representing oneself as a doctor of medical science constituting a third-degree felony.