Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB25

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/3/23
• Refer: 7/2/24
• Report Pass: 7/2/24

Caption

Further providing for definitions; and providing for the Rural Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner Health Care Access Program.

Impact

The enactment of SB25 will significantly alter the landscape of nursing practice in Pennsylvania, particularly in rural settings. It aims to reduce barriers that prevent CRNPs from practicing independently, thereby increasing the availability of healthcare professionals to meet community health needs. The bill addresses existing legal constraints that hinder nurse practitioners from taking on a more direct role in patient care. Therefore, the intended impact of the bill is not only to improve accessibility to healthcare services but also to enhance patient outcomes through timely and proactive care provided by CRNPs.

Summary

Senate Bill 25 (SB25) aims to enhance healthcare access in rural areas by establishing the Rural Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) Health Care Access Program. This legislation allows eligible rural CRNPs to practice independently without requiring a written or collaborative agreement with a physician. It acknowledges the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing healthcare services and seeks to empower nurse practitioners to provide primary care directly to patients, thus improving healthcare delivery in underserved areas. The bill outlines specific criteria for CRNPs to qualify for participation in the program, including holding a current license, having no disciplinary actions within the past five years, and practicing under a collaborative agreement with a physician for at least three years prior to applying.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB25 tends to be supportive, particularly from advocates and stakeholders who believe that empowering CRNPs can fill critical gaps in rural healthcare provision. Proponents argue that this measure meets the growing demand for healthcare services, especially in areas that often face provider shortages. However, there are concerns from some medical associations regarding potential overreach and the adequacy of CRNP training in independent practice without direct supervision from physicians. Despite differences in opinion, overall, the bill is viewed favorably among healthcare reform advocates.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential implications for the traditional physician-nurse collaborative framework. Critics express reservations about the ability of rural CRNPs to manage cases without physician oversight, fearing that it could lead to diminished patient safety or care quality. Additionally, there are discussions about the necessity for structured guidelines to ensure that CRNPs maintain high standards of practice in the absence of a collaborative agreement with a physician. As the legislation progresses, these concerns will likely drive debate around supervisory roles and collaborative practices within healthcare.