IL HB4637

Allows physician assistants to prescribe, dispense, order, administer, and procure drugs and medical devices without delegation of authority by a physician.

Permits physician assistants to practice without a written collaborative agreement if they file proof of at least 250 hours of continuing education and 2,000 hours of clinical experience after initial national certification.

Establishes "optimal practice" status allowing qualified physician assistants to prescribe Schedule II through V controlled substances without a collaborating physician and to obtain a controlled substance license independent of physician delegation.

Modifies the definition of physician assistant practice to include specific medical and surgical services including prescribing, dispensing, and administering medications and controlled substances.

Makes corresponding amendments to the Illinois Controlled Substances Act to recognize physician assistants' independent prescriptive authority.