Modifies provisions relating to licensing of health care professionals.
The legislation is expected to have a considerable impact on state laws by broadening the scope of practice for APRNs, allowing them to prescribe certain medications and controlled substances when they enter collaborative practice arrangements with physicians. This change not only aims to improve healthcare delivery in various settings—such as rural health clinics—but also facilitates telehealth services, balancing regulatory oversight with the need for expanded healthcare access. The goal is to ensure that patients have timely access to necessary medical services while maintaining safety standards.
House Bill 115 aims to modify the provisions relating to the licensing of healthcare professionals in Missouri. It encompasses significant amendments related to the authority of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), particularly regarding their prescriptive authority. The bill repeals multiple existing sections of Missouri law and introduces new provisions designed to enhance APRNs' capabilities, enabling them to prescribe controlled substances under certain conditions. This is intended to address healthcare access, especially in underserved areas, by allowing APRNs to operate more independently.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 115 include concerns from various stakeholders regarding the extent of prescriptive authority granted to APRNs. Opponents argue that increasing the prescriptive power of non-physicians could lead to risks if not properly managed, emphasizing the need for close collaboration with physicians. Proponents, however, argue that enabling APRNs to prescribe independently will significantly enhance patient care and access, especially in areas with physician shortages. The bill thus represents a pivotal shift in the balance of healthcare service delivery, advocating for greater autonomy for APRNs while ensuring collaborative frameworks remain in place.