HB1244
To Amend The Requirements To Obtain A Certificate Of Full Independent Practice Authority By A Certified Nurse Practitioner Or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1244 seeks to amend existing Arkansas law regarding the requirements for Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) to obtain a certificate of full independent practice authority. The primary change introduced by the bill is a reduction in the mandatory number of practice hours required under a collaborative practice agreement or in another jurisdiction. Specifically, the bill lowers the threshold from 6,240 hours to 2,000 hours of practice experience. By lowering this requirement, the bill aims to streamline the credentialing process and increase the speed at which these advanced practice nurses can provide healthcare services independently within the state. The Full Independent Practice Credentialing Committee remains the body responsible for granting these certificates based on application, fees, and proof of required practice hours.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are Certified Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, as it lowers the regulatory barrier for them to achieve full independent practice authority. Additionally, patients in Arkansas, particularly those in rural or underserved areas, may benefit from increased access to healthcare providers and reduced wait times for medical services.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entities that may perceive a negative impact are physicians and medical associations who advocate for physician-led care models. These groups often argue that longer clinical practice requirements under physician supervision are necessary to ensure patient safety and maintain high standards of clinical care, and they may view the reduction of these hours as a potential risk to the quality of patient outcomes.
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