The Better Access to Health Care Act seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code in Ohio to enhance the practice and authority of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), including clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse-midwives, and certified nurse practitioners. Key provisions include the requirement for health insurance policies to cover a minimum of 48 hours of inpatient care after vaginal deliveries and 96 hours after cesarean deliveries, with follow-up care directed by either a physician or an APRN. The bill also expands the authority of certified nurse-midwives to make discharge decisions for mothers and newborns in collaboration with physicians, thereby promoting collaborative care and improving access to healthcare services.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language regarding the immunity of APRNs when performing actions typically reserved for attending physicians, provided they are practicing under a standard care arrangement. It also clarifies the roles of collaborating practitioners, allowing APRNs to practice without a standard care arrangement after meeting specific experience requirements. The legislation aims to strengthen the regulatory framework governing nursing practice and education, enhance the quality of care for mothers and newborns, and ensure that healthcare professionals can make decisions in the best interest of their patients without fear of repercussions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1751.67, 2133.211, 3313.539, 3707.511, 3727.06, 3923.233, 3923.301, 3923.63, 3923.64, 4723.01, 4723.02, 4723.06, 4723.07, 4723.24, 4723.28, 4723.36, 4723.41, 4723.42, 4723.43, 4723.431, 4723.44, 4723.46, 4723.481, 4723.482, 4723.483, 4723.493, 4723.50, 4731.27, 4761.17, 5164.07, 4723.45, 5164.73