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RI S2859
Bill
Status
3/4/2026
Primary Sponsor
Alana DiMario
Click for details
AI Summary
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Creates a new "physician assistant - behavioral health" (PA-BH) specialty license designation in Rhode Island for physician assistants practicing in psychiatry or mental health
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Requires applicants to hold a current Rhode Island PA license and a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in psychiatry from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
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Eligibility criteria include passing the NCCPA psychiatry specialty examination, completing required continuing medical education and clinical experience hours in psychiatry, and obtaining attestation from a supervising psychiatrist
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Does not expand scope of practice beyond existing Rhode Island law, but formally recognizes advanced psychiatric qualifications to facilitate appropriate insurance reimbursement
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Takes effect upon passage, with the Department of Health responsible for promulgating rules governing application, renewal, and documentation requirements
Legislative Description
Creates a Rhode Island specialty license for physician assistants who earn the NCCPA psychiatry CAQ, formally recognizing advanced behavioral health qualifications and supporting appropriate insurance reimbursement.
Businesses And Professions
Last Action
Introduced, referred to Senate Health and Human Services
3/4/2026