Oklahoma House Bill HB2168

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Health care; Oklahoma Interventional Pain Management and Treatment Act; authorizing certified registered nurse anesthetists to perform certain duties; effective date.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2168 is expected to positively influence state laws by enabling CRNAs to take on more responsibilities within the healthcare system, particularly in the realm of pain management. By allowing these professionals to carry out specific duties that were previously restricted, the bill could potentially alleviate some of the burdens faced by physicians in pain management settings. This change is anticipated to improve patient access to essential treatments, as CRNAs may be able to offer more immediate care in various healthcare environments such as hospitals and clinics.

Summary

House Bill 2168, known as the Oklahoma Interventional Pain Management and Treatment Act, aims to enhance the healthcare delivery system in Oklahoma by authorizing certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) to perform certain medical duties related to pain management. This bill is significant in promoting more efficient and accessible pain-treatment options, recognizing the vital role CRNAs play in managing patient care. The introduction of this bill reflects a broader trend in healthcare legislation towards expanding the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses in response to the increasing demand for pain management services.

Contention

Despite the bill's positive intentions, there may be contention regarding the extent of authority granted to CRNAs under HB 2168. Opponents of the bill may raise concerns about the need for oversight and the qualifications of CRNAs to handle complex pain management situations that traditionally fall under the purview of physicians. Advocates for patient safety might argue that such changes require careful consideration of training and certification standards to ensure that patient care remains the top priority. The discussions surrounding this bill highlight the ongoing debates in the healthcare community about the appropriate roles of different healthcare professionals.