Committee hears bill to let physician assistants pronounce death and sign certificates; supporters cite workflow improvements

House Bill 224 was presented to the Health and Social Services Committee to allow physician assistants to pronounce death and sign death certificates in Delaware.

Senator Poore framed the bill as a technical and patient-centered update to scope-of-practice rules, saying it aligns the law with Title 24 and reflects the need for health professionals to practice at the top of their license amid workforce strain. "For years, Delaware, we have known that we must leave no stone unturned and it is absolutely critical for our health care professionals to be able to practice at the top of their license," Poore told the committee.

In-person and virtual testimony emphasized delays and family distress when PAs could not complete pronouncements. Bethany Mello, speaking for ChristianaCare employed physician assistants and chair of the system's Advanced Practice Council, described clinical scenarios where PAs are deeply involved in end-of-life care but cannot legally pronounce death, creating delays for families and unnecessary demands on scarce physician resources. "Preventable delays in critical care transitions at a time when patients' families require the utmost compassion, clarity, and support are unacceptable," Mello said.

Brad Hudson, representing the Delaware Academy of Physician Assistants, urged the committee to release the bill from committee, calling it a step that would allow PAs to use their training and reduce bottlenecks. Christina Bryan of the Delaware Health Care Association testified in support as well, saying the change would improve timeliness of care and help the workforce during periods of elevated hospital strain.

Committee members noted stakeholder positions (DHA and DAPA supportive; MSD neutral) but did not record a formal committee vote or recommendation during this session. No enactment date or implementation schedule was set on the record; advocates asked the committee to release the bill for floor consideration.