Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain advanced practice registered nurses; authorizing a fee.
Impact
The impact of SB911 on state laws pertains primarily to the enhancements in the scope and authority granted to APRNs, including the ability to prescribe controlled substances under certain conditions. By amending various sections of the Occupations Code and the Health and Safety Code, SB911 is expected to alleviate the workload on physicians, thereby allowing for more efficient patient care delivery in Texas. Additionally, there is a focus on underserved communities, making healthcare services more accessible in remote areas where healthcare professionals are scarce.
Summary
SB911, referred to as the Healthcare Expanded and Accessed Locally for Texans (HEAL Texans) Act, addresses the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Texas. The bill aims to streamline the process through which APRNs acquire the ability to prescribe medications, thereby enhancing patient access to care and reducing barriers often faced in less populated areas of the state. Key provisions include defining the scope of practice for APRNs and outlining the processes required for their licensing under state law.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB911 include debates on shifting the balance of healthcare delivery from traditional physicians to APRNs. Advocates argue that permitting APRNs to write prescriptions will improve the accessibility of healthcare, especially in rural areas. However, some healthcare professionals express concerns about whether APRNs possess adequate training to handle complex prescribing responsibilities, raising issues related to patient safety and the quality of care. The provisions for supervision by physicians and the responsibilities associated with licensure aim to address some of these concerns.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Occupations Code
Chapter 301. Nurses
Section: New Section
Section: 303
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 483. Dangerous Drugs
Section: 001
Section: 022
Section: 042
Chapter 401. Radioactive Materials And Other Sources Of Radiation
Section: 504
Chapter 32. Maternal And Infant Health Improvement
Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.