GA SB525

Establishes licensure requirements for pathologists' assistants in Georgia under the Georgia Composite Medical Board, effective July 1, 2023, requiring applicants to be at least 21 years old, hold a bachelor's or higher degree in pathologists' assistant from a board-registered program, and pass a board-approved examination.

Defines the scope of practice for pathologists' assistants as preparing gross tissue sections for pathology analysis, performing human postmortem examinations, and related functions, all under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician who practices anatomic pathology; explicitly excludes the authority to diagnose or provide medical opinions.

Creates a grandfathering provision allowing individuals who have performed pathologists' assistant duties for at least 2 of the 5 years prior to July 1, 2022, to obtain licensure without meeting the education and examination requirements, provided they apply by July 1, 2023, with supervising physician attestation of experience and competence.

Requires the board to appoint an advisory committee of at least 5 members, including at least one pathologist, three licensed pathologists' assistants, and one consumer representative, to consult on licensing decisions and rulemaking.

Authorizes the board to establish biennial continuing education requirements for license renewal, set application and examination fees, and issue temporary licenses valid for one year (extendable for one additional year) to applicants who have met all requirements except the examination.