Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) presented proponent testimony to the House Health and Aging Committee on January 20. If you have not already contacted your state representative about your opposition to House Bill 216, the proposal to give APRNs independent practice here in Ohio, please do so now.
The Ohio Academy of Family Physicians is joining forces with the Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) in making it very easy for you to send an email to your legislators on this issue. You do not have to be an OSMA member to use the system. Send an email to your member of the Ohio House of Representatives and urge them to oppose this legislation today!
If you are unsure who your elected official is, please click here to find out.
I have worked with nurse practioners in our office for over 17 years and have been impressed with their knowledge, but I do NOT feel they should be allowed to practice independently without a physician’s supervision. They do NOT have the same training as a physician, 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and at least 3 years of residency. I don’t have a problem if a physician is not present at the same time of their service, but I do NOT believe they should practice on their own. We always reviewed their notes for every patient and kept a close eye on them to insure quality care.
I have also worked with some very POOR nurse practioners and would NOT feel comfortable having them take care of patients, especially independently.