The bill aims to enhance patient care by allowing advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to fulfill certain requirements traditionally reserved for physicians. Specifically, it amends several chapters of the General Laws, including Chapters 175, 176A, 176B, and 176G, by inserting provisions that permit APRNs to conduct diagnostic evaluations, medical necessity determinations, certifications, written orders, prescriptions, or treatment recommendations as conditions for coverage or reimbursement of health services. Importantly, the bill clarifies that these changes do not expand the scope of practice for APRNs.

Additionally, the bill modifies Chapter 176O by updating language to include APRNs alongside physicians in relevant sections. This includes inserting the term "advanced practice registered nurse" after "physician" in subsection (a) and changing "treating physician" to "treating provider" to reflect the inclusion of APRNs. Furthermore, it adds "treating advanced practice registered nurse" in subsection (b) to ensure that APRNs are recognized as legitimate providers in the context of patient care and reimbursement.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 176O-16