Healthcare

SB 604 authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact, a multi-state agreement allowing licensed professional counselors to practice across participating states without obtaining separate licenses. This directly affects licensed counselors - especially those serving military families who relocate frequently - and their clients in member states. Key provisions include mutual recognition of licenses, standardized disciplinary processes, and support for telehealth services to improve access to counseling. The compact eliminates the need for counselors to hold multiple state licenses while ensuring accountability under each state’s practice laws where the client is located.

SB 1334 amends Pennsylvania's Medical Practice Act to formally establish licensing requirements and definitions for various medical imaging and allied health professionals. The bill directly affects respiratory therapists, perfusionists, genetic counselors, prosthetists, orthotists, pedorthists, and new categories including medical imaging professionals, radiation therapists, and radiologist assistants. Key provisions introduce specific definitions for imaging modalities like computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging while repealing outdated rules regarding radiologic procedures. Additionally, the legislation sets forth general qualification standards and outlines the framework for issuing licenses and certificates to these newly recognized roles.