Bill > S1163

This bill aims to expand the scope of practice for advanced nursing professionals, specifically nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists, by allowing them to prescribe medications and order tests and treatments under certain conditions. It introduces the concept of "independent practice authority" for these nurses, meaning they can practice without direct physician supervision after meeting specific educational and clinical experience requirements, such as completing a master's degree and two years of supervised practice. The bill also clarifies that a "Medication Order" for immediate administration within a healthcare facility can satisfy prescription requirements and ensures that regulations governing physicians' professional conduct and discipline are applied similarly to nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists. Additionally, it requires these advanced practice nurses to demonstrate proficiency in health information technology, including e-prescribing, as part of their eligibility for authorization.