Brief Description: Regarding independent prescriptive authority for advanced registered nurse practitioners.

Sponsors: Representatives Morrell, Campbell, Schual-Berke, Nixon, Cody, Green, Appleton, Clibborn, Simpson and Moeller.

Hearing Date: 2/10/05

Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).

Background:

Advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNP) are registered nurses with formal specialized training which qualifies them to function more independently than a registered nurse in a variety of health care specialties. ARNPs may have specialties in such areas as pediatrics, geriatrics, midwifery, anesthesiology, and neonatology. This additional training allows ARNPs to assume primary care responsibilities for a broad range of patient care beyond the practice of registered nurses.

ARNPs may only prescribe legend drugs and controlled substances contained in Schedule V of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. There are two exceptions to this limitation. First, an ARNP who is a certified register nurse anesthetist may select, order, and administer Schedule II through IV controlled substances for anesthesia services at the request of a physician, osteopathic physician, dentist, or podiatrist. Second, an ARNP may order or prescribe Schedule II through IV controlled substances consistent with his or her scope of practice and in response to a request from a physician or osteopathic physician and an ARNP to enter into a joint practice arrangement. The joint practice arrangement must describe the collaboration between the ARNP and the physician or osteopathic physician, including when consultation shall occur, methods of communication, and documentation of the consultation.

Summary of Bill:

Advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNP) may prescribe Schedule II through IV controlled substances as consistent with their scope of practice without entering into a joint practice arrangement with a physician or osteopathic physician. Rulemaking authority related to joint practice arrangements is removed.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.