Connecticut Senate Bill SB00036

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/14
• Refer: 2/7/14
• Report Pass: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/18/14
• Report Pass: 3/25/14
• Engrossed: 4/9/14
• Report Pass: 4/10/14
• Chaptered: 5/3/14
• Enrolled: 5/5/14
• Passed: 5/8/14

Caption

An Act Concerning The Governor's Recommendations To Improve Access To Health Care.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to have a significant impact on state healthcare laws by clarifying the scope of practice for APRNs. By permitting these professionals to prescribe controlled substances and allow for independent practice after a period of collaboration with physicians, the bill aims to alleviate some of the physician shortages experienced in the state. This shift is seen as a pivotal step towards ensuring that more patients receive timely and comprehensive care, particularly in underserved areas where access to physicians might be limited.

Summary

SB00036, titled 'An Act Concerning The Governor's Recommendations To Improve Access To Health Care,' aims to enhance the roles and responsibilities of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Connecticut. This legislation is part of an ongoing effort to increase access to healthcare services by allowing APRNs more autonomy in prescribing and administering medical treatments. The bill modifies existing statutes by defining advanced nursing practices and outlining the conditions under which APRNs can operate independently after sufficient experience and collaboration with licensed physicians.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB00036 reflects a positive outlook among supporters who argue that expanding the roles of APRNs is crucial for addressing healthcare gaps. Advocates emphasize the need for accessible healthcare solutions and view this bill as a progressive move towards modernizing healthcare delivery. Conversely, some healthcare professionals express concerns about patient safety and the adequacy of training for APRNs, which highlights a tension in the ongoing conversation about healthcare reform in Connecticut.

Contention

A key point of contention among stakeholders is the balance between enhancing the practice rights of APRNs and ensuring patient safety. Opponents of the bill raise questions about whether APRNs are sufficiently trained to handle complex medical issues independently. Furthermore, there are discussions about writing collaborative agreements with physicians, which may vary in their depth and effectiveness across different practices. Thus, the bill elicits debate on how best to structure healthcare provider roles to facilitate both improved access and high-quality care.