Bill > A4052

This bill aims to remove practice restrictions for advanced practice nurses (APNs), who are registered nurses with specialized training providing care beyond standard nursing practice, thereby increasing access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas. It allows APNs to diagnose, monitor, and manage patient conditions, initiate diagnostic tests, and prescribe medications and treatments, including ordering or authorizing them, without requiring a joint protocol with a physician in many cases, particularly for primary health care and behavioral health care. Certain APNs with over 5,000 hours of experience in specific practice areas, such as family or individual care, pediatrics, women's health, or behavioral health, can practice independently, provided they are not offering general obstetrics or elective cosmetic services, and if providing behavioral health care, they must facilitate referrals to higher levels of care when needed. The bill also clarifies definitions for terms like "primary health care" and "behavioral health care," and outlines specific requirements for APNs practicing independently, including malpractice insurance and notification of the Board of Nursing regarding certain professional circumstances.