Back to All NewsNew Ohio Bill Would Allow Independent Practice for APRNs
Posted By American Med Spa Association, Monday, March 29, 2021
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A new bill filed in Ohio would allow advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to practice independently from physicians. The bill, known as House Bill 221 (HB 221), is sponsored by representatives Thomas Brinkman and Jennifer Gross. It has initially been referred to the House Health Committee for further deliberation.
Currently, APRNs in Ohio require a collaborative agreement with a physician or podiatrist in order to practice. These collaborations happen according to a written Standard of Care Arrangement and allow the APRN to prescribe medications and therapeutic devices. HB 221 would allow APRNs who are registered as midwives, nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists a path to independent practice. An APRN can apply to practice without a standard of care arrangement once they have completed 2,000 hours or 12 months. If approved, the APRN would instead practice according to rules adopted by the Ohio Board of Nursing but would no longer be required to be supervised by or in collaboration with a physician.
Greater practice independence has been the biggest trend in APRN practice for several years. The majority of states now allow APRNs some path to practicing without direct supervision. If HB 221 passes, Ohio would be added to this list. We will be monitoring this legislation this year.
Currently, APRNs in Ohio require a collaborative agreement with a physician or podiatrist in order to practice. These collaborations happen according to a written Standard of Care Arrangement and allow the APRN to prescribe medications and therapeutic devices. HB 221 would allow APRNs who are registered as midwives, nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists a path to independent practice. An APRN can apply to practice without a standard of care arrangement once they have completed 2,000 hours or 12 months. If approved, the APRN would instead practice according to rules adopted by the Ohio Board of Nursing but would no longer be required to be supervised by or in collaboration with a physician.
Greater practice independence has been the biggest trend in APRN practice for several years. The majority of states now allow APRNs some path to practicing without direct supervision. If HB 221 passes, Ohio would be added to this list. We will be monitoring this legislation this year.
