Louisiana Senate Bill SR196

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/5/16

Caption

Requests the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to jointly develop and promulgate rules governing exemption from the collaborative practice agreement between an advanced practice registered nurse and a licensed physician.

Impact

If implemented, the rules developed through this resolution would potentially streamline the process by which APRNs can provide care, particularly in areas where there is a shortage of primary care physicians. The guidelines outlined in the resolution include minimum licensure requirements, experience hours, and training in essential areas such as physical assessment and pharmacology. This could enhance healthcare access for patients, especially in underserved regions.

Summary

Senate Resolution 196 urges the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to work together to establish rules that would create an exemption from the collaborative practice agreement currently required between advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and licensed physicians. This resolution seeks to resolve a long-standing contentious issue regarding the need for such agreements, which have been a topic of debate in previous legislative sessions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR196 tends to be supportive among healthcare advocates who argue that greater autonomy for APRNs can lead to improved patient outcomes and a more efficient healthcare system. However, there is also skepticism from those who believe that collaboration with physicians is crucial for maintaining quality care and safety for patients. The ongoing dialogue reflects a tension between innovation in healthcare delivery and the preservation of traditional roles within medical practice.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the effectiveness and safety of eliminating the collaborative practice agreements. Critics of the resolution express concerns about the potential risks involved if APRNs operate without the oversight of a physician, particularly in complex cases that require comprehensive medical expertise. This challenge highlights the need for careful consideration of how best to balance autonomy for healthcare providers with the necessity of patient safety and quality care.