The bill amends the Public Health Code by updating definitions and provisions related to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and their scope of practice. It introduces new language that clarifies the roles of APRNs, particularly in specialty fields such as nurse midwifery, nurse anesthetist, and nurse practitioner. Notably, it establishes a new section (17210a) that outlines the requirements for granting specialty certification to nurse practitioners, including completion of an accredited nursing education program and holding certification from a recognized body. The bill also modifies existing sections to specify the authority of APRNs to prescribe medications, including controlled substances, under certain conditions, and emphasizes the collaborative nature of their practice within healthcare teams.

Additionally, the bill makes several deletions and insertions to refine the language regarding the delegation of tasks by supervising physicians to registered professional nurses and APRNs. It clarifies that both the names and DEA registration numbers of the prescribing APRN and the supervising physician must be recorded for prescriptions of controlled substances. Furthermore, it allows APRNs with specialty certification in the nurse practitioner field to independently prescribe controlled substances and manage patient care without physician delegation, thereby enhancing their role in healthcare delivery. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the regulatory framework governing nursing practice in Michigan, ensuring that APRNs can effectively contribute to patient care while maintaining necessary oversight and collaboration with physicians.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.17201