SB 5805 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Recognizes that advanced registered nurse practitioners have a vital role in the delivery of health care in Washington state.  Nurse practitioners practice independently within their specialty in a variety of health care settings and currently are authorized to prescribe legend drugs and Schedule V controlled substances.

     Declares that allowing nurse practitioners to practice without restrictions on their prescribing authority will benefit Washington residents by improving timely access to care and decreasing health care costs by avoiding unnecessary duplication of services.  In addition, it will place direct responsibility and liability in the hands of persons making medication decisions, nurse practitioners.

     Provides that the dispensing of Schedules II through IV controlled substances of the uniform controlled substances act, chapter 69.50 RCW, is limited to a maximum of a seventy-two-hour supply of the prescribed controlled substance.