Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to expand the types of medical professionals who can serve as medical consultants for community health boards in Minnesota. By broadening the definition, the bill aims to increase accessibility and flexibility for community health boards in their operations and collaborations with various healthcare practitioners.

Main Provisions

• Expanded Eligibility: The bill proposes changes to the definition of "medical consultant," allowing not only physicians licensed by the Board of Medical Practice to serve in this role, but also including:

  • Doctors of osteopathic medicine
  • Physician assistants
  • Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who are certified to practice as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners by a recognized national nurse certification organization.

• Collaboration with Health Boards: These medical consultants must be working under a written agreement, be employed by, or under contract with a community health board. Their role includes providing advice, authorizing medical procedures, and assisting with the coordination of activities between the health board, local medical practitioners, and healthcare institutions.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Previously, only licensed physicians were eligible to serve as medical consultants for community health boards. This amendment allows for a broader range of medical professionals to take on this role, thereby potentially improving the function and reach of community health boards by incorporating diverse medical expertise.

Relevant Terms

• Medical consultant
• Community health board
• Doctor of osteopathic medicine
• Physician assistant
• Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Nurse practitioner
• Board of Medical Practice
• National nurse certification organization