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 bill enforces stricter guidelines for the prescribing authority of APRNs, ensuring they obtain appropriate licensing under state law. This initiative aims to streamline healthcare services and potentially alleviate burdens on the medical system by allowing APRNs greater autonomy in patient care. Proponents argue that this could lead to increased healthcare access, especially in underserved areas, where APRNs can practice without excessive supervision from physicians. However, the bill also establishes specific contexts where a physician must remain involved in the treatment decisions for patients attended by APRNs.
Summary
Senate Bill 1859 focuses on the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Texas. The bill introduces significant changes to how APRNs operate, particularly in the context of healthcare coverage and reimbursement. It clarifies the definitions related to APRNs, specifying their roles and responsibilities, which include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists. Furthermore, the bill aims to enhance the ability of APRNs to provide care independently within certain legislative frameworks, thereby expanding their professional capacity in Texas healthcare systems.
Contention
Notably, discussions around SB 1859 have revealed some contention regarding the balance between independent practice for APRNs and necessary physician oversight. Some lawmakers express concern that too much autonomy could lead to issues regarding patient safety and care quality, while supporters advocate for empowering APRNs to meet patient needs effectively without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. This ongoing debate reflects broader discussions in healthcare about scope of practice and collaborative care models, which are pivotal concerns in current legislative sessions.
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 1551. Texas Employees Group Benefits Act
Section: New Section
Chapter 1575. Texas Public School Employees Group Benefits Program
Section: New Section
Chapter 1579. Texas School Employees Uniform Group Health Coverage
Section: New Section
Chapter 1601. Uniform Insurance Benefits Act For Employees Of The University Of Texas System And The Texas A&m University System
Section: New Section
Occupations Code
Chapter 301. Nurses
Section: New Section
Section: 303
Chapter 563. Prescription Requirements; Delegation Of Administration And Provision Of Dangerous Drugs
Identical
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.
Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
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.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses and the number of advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants with whom a physician may enter into a prescriptive authority agreement.