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 introduces new definitions that clarify the roles of APNs, allowing them to manage preventive care services, diagnose, and administer anesthesia independently, thereby addressing healthcare access issues, particularly in underserved areas.

Additionally, the bill establishes new requirements for APNs regarding the prescription of medications, including the use of New Jersey Prescription Blanks and mandatory continuing education in pharmacology for controlled substances. For those with less than 24 months or 2,400 hours of practice, a joint protocol with a collaborating provider is still required for prescribing. The bill also allows certified APNs in anesthesia to operate without physician or dentist supervision and ensures that any state law requiring a physician's signature will also accept that of an APN, provided it is within their scope of practice. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the regulatory framework for APNs, empowering them to practice to the full extent of their training and education.

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