Nurse practitioners in California
suffered a setback in their ability to practice independently of physicians if they are part of a medical team such a clinic or group practice. On
August 30, 2013, Senate Bill 491 (Hernandez), which would remove patient
barriers to health care services by permitting nurse practitioners in
California to practice to the full extent of their training and expertise was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. The bill was not voted upon
and will not move during this legislative session. The California Medical
Association vigorously opposed this bill. The Los Angeles Times' article on SB 491 provides more background on the lobbying and issues present.
Under current law, NPs have a
difficult time providing services at the point of care because of requirements
for physician approval to initiate or continue care that patients need. This bill would increase autonomy for NPs to be
able to provide this care. The California Association for Nurse Practitioners
viewed SB 491 as especially important with the coming implementation of the
Affordable Care Act, and the expected influx of up to 7 million new patients into
the health care delivery system in California.
We can expect to see a revised bill presented next year regarding expanding the use of nurse practitioners in clinic and group practice settings.
Posted by Tracy Green, Green and Associates, Attorneys at Law
You can reach Ms. Green at tgreen@greenassoc.com or 213-233-2260
