Mississippi Senate Bill SB2377

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/24
• Refer: 2/12/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Advanced practice registered nurse; revise collaboration requirement and board of nursing membership.

Impact

The implications of SB2377 are notable as it not only includes amendments to the definitions and responsibilities outlined within the Nursing Practice Law but also revises the composition of the Mississippi Board of Nursing. By allowing APRNs and CRNAs to forego collaborative agreements after achieving sufficient practice hours, the bill seeks to streamline healthcare delivery and potentially address workforce shortages. This change is aimed at expanding access to care, particularly in underserved areas where physicians may not be readily available.

Summary

Senate Bill 2377 aims to amend several aspects of the Mississippi Nursing Practice Law to modernize and expand the role of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) within the state. One of the key provisions of the bill is the removal of the requirement for certain APRNs to maintain a collaborative or consultative relationship with licensed physicians after completing a specified number of practice hours—3,600 hours for APRNs and 8,000 hours for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). This change reflects a significant shift toward greater autonomy for these healthcare providers, allowing them to practice independently once they meet the experience thresholds.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate regarding the implications for patient safety and the quality of care. Proponents argue that removing the collaborative requirement empowers skilled APRNs and enables them to meet the growing healthcare demands without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. However, critics express concerns that such changes may compromise patient safety, suggesting that ongoing collaboration with physicians is essential to ensure high standards of care. The balance between independence and oversight remains a pivotal point in the discussions around this legislation.