Advanced Practice Provider Executives
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ANA Urges Support for Bill to Increase Veterans’ Access to APRNs’ Services

Posted about 9 years ago by Nicholas M Perrino

"The American Nurses Association (ANA) applauds Representatives Sam Graves (R-MO) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) for their leadership in introducing the "Improving Veterans Access to Care Act of 2015." The bill, H.R. 1247, allows Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who work in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities 'full practice authority.' Full practice authority means allowing APRNs to practice to the full extent of their education and training and provides a common-sense solution to the challenges associated with ensuring America's veterans have access to high quality health care services.

Currently, APRNs who work in VHA facilities are subject to the laws of the state in which they are licensed. While some states have removed restrictive practice regulations, in other states APRNs face regulations that limit their scope of practice, with veterans' access to care suffering as a result.

By recognizing NPs, CNMs, CNSs and CRNAs to their full practice authority, the VHA can make the fullest use of these critical members of their health care workforce, maximize care delivery and minimize waits and delays for care. The bill is consistent with the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine report The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health, and with proposals under consideration in the VHA."

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