SC S0044

Allows physician assistants (PAs) with more than 2,000 hours of postgraduate clinical experience to practice independently under an attestation statement without physician supervision, including performing medical and surgical acts, holding hospital admitting privileges, and writing medical orders

Expands the State Board of Medical Examiners from 13 to 15 members by adding two PA positions, with four-year terms and a maximum of three consecutive terms

Grants PAs full prescriptive authority for Schedule II through V controlled substances and all legend drugs, removing previous restrictions that limited Schedule II narcotic prescriptions to a five-day initial supply requiring physician consultation for refills

Requires insurance companies and third-party payers to reimburse PAs directly for services and prohibits imposing practice, education, or collaboration requirements more restrictive than state law

Authorizes PAs licensed in other jurisdictions to provide emergency care in South Carolina during declared emergencies with liability protection for voluntary, gratuitous services except for gross negligence or willful misconduct