This bill seeks to enhance the practice authority of advanced practice nurses (APNs) in New Jersey by removing existing restrictions that limit their ability to prescribe medications and administer anesthesia. Key amendments include the elimination of the requirement for APNs to collaborate with a physician for prescribing, as well as the removal of joint protocols and supervision requirements. The legislation also expands the scope of practice for APNs to include diagnosing, monitoring, and managing long-term illnesses, thereby empowering them to fully utilize their education and training to improve patient care and address healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved areas.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for APNs regarding prescription issuance, such as the use of New Jersey Prescription Blanks and completion of continuing education in pharmacology for controlled substances. APNs with less than 24 months or 2,400 hours of active practice must establish a joint protocol with a collaborating provider to prescribe, while those with more experience can practice independently. The legislation also clarifies that certified APNs in anesthesia can practice without supervision and mandates that any legal requirement for a physician's signature will apply to APNs as well. Outdated sections of law are repealed, and the New Jersey Board of Nursing and the Commissioner of Health are tasked with adopting regulations to implement these new provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:11-23, 45:11-49, 45:11-49.3, 45:11-50