Nurse practitioner
Legislation is making its way through the Florida Senate that would allow Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to practice to the full extent of their education and training.
SB 676 would lift outdated barriers that limit access to healthcare.
Florida has the most restrictive regulations in the nation with regard to APRNs; they cannot sign death certificates, prescribe certain medications nor order home health services.
Florida is the only state in the nation that doesn’t allow APRNs to obtain their DEA number that would authorize them to prescribe medically necessary medications.
The focus is to decrease medical costs by making access to care easier.
There is a shortage of healthcare providers and APRNs are here to help fill the gap.
Studies have established that nurse practitioners are masters or doctorate prepared to assume responsibility and accountability for health promotion and/or maintenance, as well as the assessment, diagnosis, and management of patient problems.
Patient outcomes and safety are not diminished or compromised when rendered by a nurse practitioner. Additionally, medical costs are decreased when delivered by an APRN. It’s time for Florida to stop being last in the nation.
Arlene Torres, Hialeah
This story was originally published January 23, 2016 at 12:00 PM with the headline "Nurse practitioner."