Healthcare Workforce Bill Sent for House Action

The General Assembly’s Public Health Committee unanimously approved a proposal earlier this month targeting the state’s healthcare workforce shortage.

HB 6835 allows Connecticut to join the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact, creating a streamlined process for PAs licensed in participating states to practice in here. 

Currently, 13 states have enacted legislation to join the compact, with Maine being only New England state.

This year, an additional 13 states—including Connecticut and neighboring New York and Massachusetts—introduced bills to join. 

CBIA supports policies that help address workforce shortages and contribute to the state’s economic growth.

Important Tool

As Connecticut looks for solutions to increase PA recruitment and retention, permitting out-of-state licensed PAs to practice in Connecticut is an important tool to fill such talent gaps.

The PA Licensure Compact has stringent requirements, ensuring that out-of-state PAs practicing in the state are well-qualified and maintaining the high quality of healthcare in Connecticut.  

Expanding the talent pool of qualified PAs can help improve patient access and reduce strain on the existing healthcare system.

As the bill moves forward, it provides the legislature with the opportunity to address the state’s healthcare workforce shortage while also ensuring access to high standards of care.  

HB 6835 is now awaiting action on the House floor.

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Grace Brangwynne (860.244.1163).