Advanced Practice Registered Nurses: The Case Against State Medical Board Regulation
In recent years, the role of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) has expanded significantly, bringing forth a debate over whether state medical boards should regulate their practice. While some argue in favor of increased oversight, I firmly believe that state medical boards should not regulate Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. The ANA joins me in opposing state medical board oversight of APRN practice. In this blog, I will delve into the reasons why APRNs should be granted autonomy, highlighting the benefits for patients, the healthcare system, and the nursing profession as a whole.
- Expertise and Education:
Advanced practice registered nurses undergo rigorous education and training to develop their expertise. They hold master’s or doctoral degrees in nursing and specialize in areas such as nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Their advanced knowledge equips them to provide high-quality care and make informed decisions independently.
- Expanding Access to Care:
One of the key advantages of APRNs is their ability to address the growing shortage of primary care providers and enhance access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. By allowing APRNs to practice autonomously, state medical boards can increase the availability of vital healthcare services, reducing wait times and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.
- Patient-Centered Care:
APRNs are known for their holistic and patient-centered approach to healthcare. With a focus on building strong therapeutic relationships, APRNs prioritize effective communication, patient education, and shared decision-making. By allowing them to practice independently, patients have direct access to APRNs, fostering continuity of care and promoting patient empowerment.
- Cost-Effectiveness:
The rising cost of healthcare is a significant concern for individuals, families, and the healthcare system as a whole. Studies have consistently shown that care provided by APRNs is cost-effective, often resulting in comparable or better outcomes at a lower cost compared to physician-delivered care. Allowing APRNs to practice without burdensome regulations can help reduce healthcare costs while maintaining quality care. I do believe APRNs should be reimbursed at the same rate as physicians since they are providing the same service.
- Collaboration, Not Regulation:
Rather than imposing stringent regulations, fostering collaboration between APRNs and physicians should be the focus. By establishing collaborative practice models, where APRNs work in coordination with physicians, the strengths and expertise of both professions can be leveraged to provide comprehensive, team-based care. This collaborative approach promotes interdisciplinary learning and enhances the overall quality of care delivered to patients. I believe in the collaborative approach but think APRNs should have full practice authority.
- Enhancing the Nursing Profession:
Regulating APRNs under state medical boards sends a message that their expertise and abilities are not valued independently. By granting APRNs autonomy, we recognize the unique contributions of the nursing profession to the healthcare landscape. This recognition will not only attract more aspiring nurses to pursue advanced practice roles but also encourage professional growth and innovation within the field.
The time has come to embrace the full potential of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and acknowledge their invaluable contributions to healthcare. By granting them autonomy and refraining from excessive regulation, we can enhance patient access, provide cost-effective care, and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals. It is essential to recognize the expertise of APRNs and trust in their ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. Let us advocate for a future that empowers and supports Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in their mission to improve healthcare outcomes for all.
