AN ACT relating to physician assistants.

Amend KRS 311.840 to define terms; amend KRS 311.842, 311.848, 311.850, 202A.011, 202C.010, 216B.175, and 600.020 to change references to "supervising physician" to "collaborating physician" to conform; amend KRS 311.844 to include Schedule II controlled substances in the list of controlled substances authorized license holders may prescribe; amend KRS 311.858 to list the services a physician assistant may provide; require a physician assistant to consult and collaborate with or refer a patient to an appropriate…

Hospitals And Health Facilities Occupations and Professions Physicians Transportation Advisory Boards, Commissions, and Committees Driver Licensing Drugs and Medicines Health Care Professionals

Introduced: January 22, 2026

Last action: April 10, 2026

(Acts Ch. 94)

In effect since July 15, 2026

Acts from the 2026 Regular Session that don't carry an emergency clause or set their own effective date took effect 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).

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This bill changes how physician assistants in Kentucky work alongside doctors, shifting from a "supervision" model to a "collaboration" model. It also expands what physician assistants are allowed to do, including prescribing certain additional controlled substances and administering driver vision tests. A physician assistant would still be required to consult with or refer patients to a licensed physician when a patient's condition calls for it. Who it may affect: patients seeking care from physician assistants, physician assistants, and licensed physicians who enter into collaboration agreements with them.

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