On surgical hierarchy

House Bill 1198 is likely before the Legislature this week. As a physician serving our state in academic medicine for almost 20 years, I must express my deep concern regarding the passage of this bill. I urge a no vote on this bill.

The bill changes the legal standard of “supervision” by a physician over a nurse to “consultation” between a physician and nurse regarding anesthesia during surgery. Currently, all medical staff on the operating room team are under the supervision of a physician. To lower the standard of care to “consultation” with one team member would be deleterious to the care of our citizens requiring surgical care.

Supervision creates a hierarchy and chain of command in the operating room. This is particularly important when there are surgical complications with patients. Doctors do not have time to “consult” with the nurses; they must direct and supervise the response to the surgical emergency.

With our state still reeling from covid-19 (12 percent of our population has had a covid diagnosis) and our state’s national heath-care rankings at 48th, now is not the time to lower standards of medical care. Studies show that covid-19 has a negative effect on surgery and anesthesia, creating a 25 percent increased mortality rate; therefore, doctors are addressing surgical considerations with covid patients every day in the ever-changing environment.

Legislators, for the sake of your constituents, for the state of Arkansas and for your own well-being, vote “no” on HB1198.

J. GRADY CROSLAND

El Dorado