The Department of Health had a public comment forum Thursday May 14th to discuss proposed regulations regarding the save use of sedation.  RIAPA was represented by myself and Jim Carney.  Similar to the legislative bills, one of our biggest concerns was that once again, PAs were left out of the regulations.  While some may see that as a positive "well if we aren't in there it won't affect us" while others (our legal council and the AAPA) felt strongly otherwise, stating if we aren't included then we cant do it.   The meeting was attended by representatives from RISNA, NPARI, RIANA, Care New England as well as NPs and CRNAs.  I didnt see any other PAs there.  The Department of Health was open to questions and feedback and the meeting felt productive on some fronts but there is clearly a lot of friction as to who can safely provide sedation.  If the House and Senate pass a bill that the Governor signs than the regulations become meaningless and the new law trumps everything.  So what does this all mean?  Any PA that provides any level or sedation in any setting is at risk of losing that privilege.  Stay engaged and stay supportive.