{"Certain tasks":"Perform physical examinations, order and perform diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, implement and monitor effectiveness of a treatment plan, assist in surgery, offer counseling, order and prescribe certain drugs, and provisionally diagnose patients."}
Emergency Law Inventory | Full Law Text

Law Number

Tex. Occ. Code 204.2045

Summary Title

Scope of Practice: Physician Assistant Practicing During Disaster

Summary

When an emergency declaration is in effect, a physician assistant from any state can perform certain tasks without a Texas license and without the supervision of a physician, if a physician is not available. A physician assistant who, in good faith and without compensation, provides such care in a disaster situation will not be held legally responsible. They can be held legally responsible if acting with extreme carelessness or intent to cause harm.

Full Title

Services Performed During Disaster

Full Text

(a) The supervision and delegation requirements of this chapter and Subtitle B do not apply to medical tasks performed by a physician assistant during a disaster under the state emergency management plan adopted under Section 418.042, Government Code, or a disaster declared by the governor or United States government. This section does not apply to medical tasks performed by a physician assistant for compensation or other remuneration. (b) A physician assistant performing medical tasks under this section is entitled to the immunity from liability provided by Section 74.151, Civil Practice and Remedies Code. (c) A physician assistant may perform tasks described by this section: (1) under the supervision of any physician who is also performing volunteer work in the disaster; or (2) without the supervision of a physician, if a physician is not available to provide supervision. (d) A physician assistant employed by the United States government or licensed in another state may perform medical tasks in this state in circumstances described by Subsection (a) without holding a license in this state.

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