In August, two states advanced legislation expanding the scope of practice for non-physician providers.
Here are the two moves:
1. In early August, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed a bipartisan piece of legislation allowing advanced practice registered nurses to practice independently. APRNs in Wisconsin could previously practice under a collaborative agreement with a physician. The new legislation will allow APRNs who meet specified requirements, including a minimum of 3,840 hours of work experience, to practice independently.
The legislation creates a new licensure opportunity for RNs to become APRNs and establishes various oversight and safety provisions, including mandating the completion of education and continuing education requirements.
2. Oklahoma lawmakers have overridden Gov. Kevin Stitt’s veto of a bill expanding physician assistant authority, allowing PAs with more than 6,240 hours of experience to practice without a physician agreement. The law, HB 2584, also grants PAs expanded prescribing authority, including Schedule II medications. Supporters say the change could improve access to care, particularly in rural areas where physician shortages are acute.
