"The booklet is a compilation of the applicable laes and regulations regarding the practice of physician assistants. While every effort has been made to ensure that the booklet is current and accurate, readers are advised that the applicable laws and regulations are subject to revision. Should any difference or discrepency occur, duly enacted laws or regulations shall take precedence over hte information contained herein."--From title page.

This book, written for PAs, PA students, institutional and physician e mployers of PAs, and health care lawyers, is a comprehensive reference on laws impacting physician assistant practice. In addition to offeri ng a detailed account of the evolution of the PA profession, including its continuing expansion in today's health care environment, this boo k provides thorough coverage of a wide range of legal issues related t o the PA practice; including academic training and certification, lice nsure, scope of practice and prescriptive authority, employment laws, peer review and credentialing, malpractice, risk management, professio nal liability insurance, medical records, reimbursement, ethics, and e mployment issues related to PAs in hospitals and other practice settin gs.

This text is offered as a medical legal resource of the physician assistant profession. It is intended for use through all phases of the professional development of the physician assistant, from the high school student sorting through options in career choices, to physician assistant students, practicing physician assistants and supervisory physicians, or those who are considering practicing with a physician assistant. The history and development of the profession is reviewed, allowing an understanding of the role the physician assistant plays in the healthcare team approach to patient care. The scope of practice is defined, along with the key collaboration between the physician assistant and the supervising physician. Regulatory requirements are delineated by state, including basic requirements and maintenance of licensure and certification.