“Professional Roles and Responsibilities” Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are graduate-educated, nationally-certified and state licensed advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who care for medically stable patients across the lifespan, from infants to geriatric patients. Share your thoughts Discuss at least 3 regulations impose in APRN in the state of Florida and would you like to change and what process will you use to do it?. Purchase the answer to view it Purchase the answer to view it Purchase the answer to view it
Introduction
The role of Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) is increasingly becoming essential in the healthcare system as they are able to provide comprehensive care to patients across the lifespan. FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), who have obtained graduate education, national certification, and state licensure. In the state of Florida, like in many other states, APRNs are regulated by specific laws and regulations that govern their practice. This paper will discuss three regulations imposed on APRNs in Florida and analyze whether there is a need for change. Additionally, the process that can be utilized to initiate change will be explored.
Regulations Imposed on APRNs in Florida
1. Collaborative Practice Agreement (CPA)
Florida law currently requires APRNs, including FNPs, to enter into a collaborative practice agreement (CPA) with a supervising physician. This agreement outlines the specific scope of practice, protocols, and guidelines for the collaborating physician and APRN. The CPA also requires the physician to periodically review and evaluate the APRN’s practice. This regulation poses a potential barrier to the autonomous practice of FNPs, as they must constantly rely on physician oversight.
2. Restricted Prescriptive Authority
Another regulation imposed on APRNs in Florida is restricted prescriptive authority. Currently, APRNs have limited autonomy in prescribing medications. They are required to have a written protocol or agreement with a supervising physician that outlines the medications they are allowed to prescribe. This restriction in prescriptive authority can impede timely and efficient patient care. FNPs, who are educated and trained to provide comprehensive care, should have the freedom to prescribe medications based on their assessment and clinical judgment.
3. Medicare/Medicaid Billing Restrictions
A third regulation that affects APRNs in Florida is the restriction on Medicare/Medicaid billing privileges. Currently, Medicare and Medicaid only reimburse APRNs at a reduced rate compared to physicians for providing the same services. This disparity in reimbursement can limit the financial sustainability of APRN practices and discourage APRNs from providing care to Medicare and Medicaid patients. This regulation not only affects access to care for vulnerable populations but also hinders the ability of APRNs to practice to the full extent of their education and training.
Potential for Change
To address these regulations and advocate for change, several processes can be utilized:
1. Legislative Advocacy
One way to initiate change is through legislative advocacy. APRNs, professional nursing organizations, and other healthcare stakeholders can work together to propose and support legislation that promotes autonomous practice for FNPs in Florida. This may involve engaging with legislators, conducting research and data analysis to demonstrate the positive outcomes of expanded practice authority, and lobbying for change. Legislative advocacy has been effective in other states, such as granting full practice authority to APRNs, and can be a powerful tool for achieving change in Florida as well.
2. Collaboration with Healthcare Stakeholders
Another approach to bringing about change is by collaborating with various healthcare stakeholders, including professional nursing organizations, physician groups, hospital administrators, and healthcare policy experts. By fostering dialogue and mutual understanding, a collective effort can be made to highlight the benefits of granting more autonomy to FNPs. This collaborative approach can help build alliances and garner support for change from multiple perspectives, ultimately increasing the chances of success.
3. Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Research and evidence-based practice can play a significant role in advocating for change. Conducting studies that demonstrate the positive outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and patient satisfaction associated with the autonomous practice of FNPs can provide compelling evidence for regulatory change. By disseminating these findings through scholarly publications, conferences, and policy briefs, the impact of research can be maximized and help sway opinions in favor of increased autonomy for FNPs.
Conclusion
FNPs in Florida face several regulations that restrict their practice and autonomy. Collaborative practice agreements, restricted prescriptive authority, and disparities in Medicare/Medicaid billing all pose challenges for FNPs in delivering comprehensive care. However, by utilizing processes such as legislative advocacy, collaboration with healthcare stakeholders, and research-based evidence, change can be initiated and potentially lead to the removal or modification of these regulations. Increased autonomy for FNPs can result in improved patient outcomes, increased access to care, and a more efficient healthcare system overall.