Advanced practice registered nurses; revise provisions relating to the collaborative relationship requirement.
In an effort to streamline the practice of advanced nursing, the bill introduces new exemptions from the requirement for APRNs to maintain a collaborative or consultative relationship with a licensed physician or dentist after they complete a specific number of clinical practice hours. For standard APRNs, the threshold is set at 5,000 hours, while certified registered nurse anesthetists must complete 8,000 hours. This amendment is significant as it could enhance the ability of experienced APRNs to practice independently, potentially improving healthcare access in underserved areas.
House Bill 1357 seeks to amend Mississippi's nursing practice laws concerning advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The bill proposes to revise certain definitions and provisions in the nursing practice law to better delineate the requirements for APRNs, particularly concerning their collaborative relationships with licensed physicians or dentists. Notably, it stipulates that physicians and dentists cannot charge APRNs for serving in a collaborative capacity, which aims to encourage more seamless collaboration in healthcare settings.
While the bill primarily focuses on facilitating the practice of APRNs, it is not without contention. Advocates argue that loosening the collaborative requirements could lead to better utilization of nursing resources and improved patient care. However, opponents raise concerns about patient safety and the potential for a decline in care quality if APRNs operate without the guidance of collaborating physicians after achieving their clinical hours. Overall, the debates around HB1357 highlight the balance between enhancing healthcare access and maintaining the quality of care.