Louisiana House Bill HR52

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/22/13
• Passed: 4/23/13

Caption

Recognizes Monday, April 22, 2013, as nurse practitioners day at the state capitol

Impact

The resolution observes the critical role of nurse practitioners in enhancing access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved populations and areas with fewer medical professionals. By recognizing their contributions, the resolution aims to promote awareness about the value of nurse practitioners in the healthcare system. This could influence state policies regarding healthcare delivery and the roles of nurse practitioners, potentially leading to better integration of these professionals into healthcare teams and expanded scopes of practice to meet the health needs of Louisiana residents.

Summary

House Resolution 52 recognizes Monday, April 22, 2013, as Nurse Practitioners Day at the State Capitol. The resolution commends nurse practitioners for their significant contributions to healthcare over the past fifty years. It highlights their roles in providing primary, acute, and specialty care, emphasizing their importance in both urban and rural settings, particularly in areas with a shortage of healthcare professionals. The resolution also notes that nurse practitioners' emphasis on disease prevention and health management helps improve health outcomes for patients while also reducing healthcare costs, including fewer emergency room visits and shorter hospital stays.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR52 is predominantly positive, reflecting appreciation for the work and expertise of nurse practitioners. Lawmakers from both major parties appear to support the resolution, seeing it as an acknowledgment of the critical healthcare services they provide. The resolution strives to bolster the acknowledgment of nurse practitioners both within the legislative framework and among the public, encouraging an understanding of their impact on community health.

Contention

While HR52 is largely celebratory and uncontroversial, discussions around nurse practitioners typically involve broader debates over healthcare policies, such as scope of practice regulations and reimbursement issues. Some contention may arise concerning the role nurse practitioners play in the healthcare system versus that of physicians. However, the resolution itself does not delve into these topics, focusing solely on recognition rather than initiating policy changes or legislative debate.