AN ACT relating to medical provider coverage in Level IV trauma centers.

Amend KRS 211.492 to define "advanced practice provider"; amend KRS 211.494 to allow Level IV verified trauma centers to utilize physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses who are supervised by physicians to cover emergency departments; require the Department for Public Health to promulgate administrative regulations to conform.

Introduced: January 6, 2026

Last action: February 6, 2026

To Committee On Committees (H)

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This bill changes state rules so that Level IV trauma centers, which are typically smaller or more rural hospitals, can use physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses to staff emergency departments as long as they are supervised by a doctor. It also directs the state Department for Public Health to update its regulations to match the new rules. Who it may affect: Kentuckians who rely on smaller or rural hospitals for emergency care, and the healthcare providers who work at those facilities.

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