Texas House Bill HB3794

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25

Caption

Relating to the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses and the payment of independent advanced practice registered nurses in certain government employee health plans.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3794 is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing health professionals. By granting APRNs additional autonomy, it confronts existing regulatory barriers while also aligning their practice more closely with national standards. This change is anticipated to expand healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved regions where physician shortages often occur. As APRNs are empowered to manage patient care independently, the bill also facilitates better patient outcomes by allowing for more timely and efficient healthcare delivery.

Summary

House Bill 3794 focuses on the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) within Texas. It outlines specific provisions regarding their capacity to operate as independent practitioners and the authority to prescribe various medications, including controlled substances. The bill aims to enhance the role of APRNs in the healthcare system, particularly as essential providers within government employee health plans. By streamlining regulations around their practice, the legislation intends to improve healthcare accessibility and efficiency for patients, especially in underserved areas.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill has not been without contention. Some medical associations have raised concerns about the adequacy of training and oversight for APRNs compared to physicians. Critics argue that expanding prescriptive authority without stringent oversight might compromise patient safety. The legislation attempts to address these concerns by establishing guidelines for APRN practice that include clear education and certification requirements, and ensuring patient safety measures are maintained. However, debates continue regarding the balance of autonomy for APRNs and the necessary oversight intended to protect public health.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 773. Emergency Medical Services
  • Section: 0145

Human Resources Code

• Chapter 32. Medical Assistance Program
  • Section: 024
  • Section: 03141

• Chapter 42. Regulation Of Certain Facilities, Homes, And Agencies That Provide Child-care Services
  • Section: 067

Insurance Code

• Chapter 843. Health Maintenance Organizations
  • Section: 312

• Chapter 1301. Preferred Provider Benefit Plans
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1452. Physician And Provider Credentials
  • Section: 051

Occupations Code

• Chapter 157. Authority Of Physician To Delegate Certain Medical Acts
  • Section: 051

• Chapter 301. Nurses
  • Section: New Section

Labor Code

• Chapter 408. Workers' Compensation Benefits
  • Section: 025

Education Code

• Chapter 38. Health And Safety
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • Section: 601