Modernization of Colorado PA Practice Act a Significant Win for Patients

Under New Law, PAs Will Practice Under Collaborative Agreements

April 27, 2023

On April 26, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed into law SB 083, legislation that will update state law to allow most PAs to practice collaboratively with a physician rather than to practice under a supervisory agreement. The bill takes effect later this summer.

“SB 083 is an important step forward for the PA profession in Colorado, but, most importantly, this is a victory for patients,” Colorado Academy of PAs (CAPA) President Kellie Lyons, MSPAS, PA-C, said.

“Access to quality health care is a priority in every community, and SB 083 ensures that PAs and their employers have greater flexibility to meet the health care needs of Coloradoans. We are grateful to the General Assembly and Governor Polis for supporting this modernization of Colorado’s practice laws, and we extend a special thanks to Senators Faith Winter and Cleave Simpson and Representatives Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Ty Winter for their leadership on this bill and for their commitment to patient access.”

AAPA President and Chair of the Board Jennifer M. Orozco, DMSc, PA-C, said the new law is a win for patients, as giving PAs more flexibility to practice to the full extent of their training, education, and experience will ultimately improve healthcare in the state.

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“This change will position Colorado PAs to show lawmakers how team-based care thrives when administrative burdens are lifted and will pave the way for continued modernization of PA laws and regulations in the state,” Orozco said.

“The time, energy, and dedication CAPA leaders, PAs, and PA supporters have poured into securing this much-needed update to state law speaks volumes for their dedication to expanding patient access to care.”

AAPA joins CAPA in thanking the legislature and Gov. Polis for their efforts to improve patient care. PAs can send an email of thanks to the governor and legislators via CAPA’s legislative action center.

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