I’m working on a health & medical discussion question and need the explanation and answer to help me learn.
Identify the issue you think is most important regarding APRN credentialing and licensure?
What barriers or challenges have slowed the progress of advanced practice registered nursing?
Identify a current legislative policy on the local, state, or national level that will influence policies APRN practice.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The field of advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) has become increasingly prominent in the healthcare system, with APRNs playing a crucial role in providing quality healthcare services. However, there are several issues and challenges that need to be addressed, along with legislative policies that can influence the practice of APRNs. In this response, I will discuss the most important issue related to APRN credentialing and licensure, the barriers and challenges faced by APRNs, and a current legislative policy that will impact APRN practice.
Answer to Question 1:
The issue that I believe is most important regarding APRN credentialing and licensure is the lack of uniformity and consistency among states in recognizing and granting full practice authority to APRNs. Currently, each state has its own set of laws and regulations regarding APRN practice, creating significant variability in the scope of practice, autonomy, and prescribing authority for APRNs. This lack of standardization creates unnecessary barriers for APRNs, limits their ability to provide optimal care, and hinders the delivery of healthcare services in a timely and efficient manner.
Answer to Question 2:
Several barriers and challenges have slowed the progress of advanced practice registered nursing. These include:
1. Resistance from physician organizations: Traditional physician organizations have often opposed granting full practice authority to APRNs, citing concerns about patient safety and maintaining physician supervision. This resistance has contributed to the reluctance of some states to expand APRN practice authority.
2. State regulations and restrictive scope of practice: Many states have restrictive regulations that limit the scope of practice for APRNs, requiring them to practice under physician supervision or collaborative agreements. These regulations inhibit the ability of APRNs to fully utilize their knowledge and skills, leading to unnecessary fragmentation of care and inefficiencies in the healthcare system.
3. Lack of financial support and reimbursement: APRNs face challenges in receiving equal compensation compared to physicians and enduring difficulties in obtaining reimbursement for their services. This financial barrier often dissuades APRNs from pursuing advanced practice roles, thus impacting the advancement of APRN practice.
Answer to Question 3:
A current legislative policy that will influence APRN practice is the COVID-19 pandemic response measures. In response to the increased demand for healthcare services during the pandemic, many states have temporarily relaxed restrictions on APRNs’ scope of practice. These measures allow APRNs to provide care without the need for physician supervision or collaboration, enabling them to contribute more effectively to the healthcare system during this crisis. The recognition of APRNs’ expertise and capacity to provide independent care during the pandemic may lead to permanent changes in legislative policies, expanding APRN practice authority even beyond the emergency period.
