Connecticut Senate Bill SB00029

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/17
• Refer: 1/9/17

Caption

An Act Allowing Advanced Practice Registered Nurses To Practice Independently Under The Supervision Of An Experienced Advanced Practice Registered Nurse.

Impact

The passage of SB00029 would have significant implications for state healthcare laws. By shifting the supervisory requirement from physicians to experienced APRNs, the bill could help alleviate some of the barriers that new APRNs face in entering the workforce. This amendment emphasizes the importance of peer-to-peer collaboration in the nursing field, which could improve patient care and access to healthcare services. Furthermore, it aligns with national trends advocating for the expansion of APRN roles to meet growing healthcare demands.

Summary

SB00029 proposes to amend existing statutes to allow advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to practice independently under the supervision of an experienced APRN, rather than requiring oversight from a physician. This bill aims to enhance the autonomy of APRNs, particularly new graduates, in providing healthcare services. By allowing nursing professionals to collaborate with each other, the legislation fosters a more supportive environment for emerging practitioners who may lack the extensive experience often required by physician supervision.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from nursing associations and proponents of healthcare reform, some concerns have been raised by certain physician groups regarding patient safety and care quality. Opponents argue that removing physician oversight could lead to potential risks if new APRNs do not have adequate support or experience. This division highlights ongoing debates about the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals and how best to balance supervision with the need for independence among nursing practitioners.