The Better Access to Health Care Act seeks to amend the Ohio Revised Code to enhance the roles of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and improve maternity care coverage. Key provisions include the requirement for health insurance policies to cover a minimum of 48 hours of inpatient care following a normal vaginal delivery and 96 hours following a cesarean delivery. The bill allows certified nurse-midwives to make discharge decisions for mothers and newborns in collaboration with physicians, rather than solely under their direction. It also introduces new language regarding the responsibilities and immunities of APRNs when collaborating with physicians, while repealing certain sections and enacting new ones that outline the conditions under which APRNs can practice.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify the authority of licensed healthcare professionals in youth sports organizations and hospital admissions, allowing them to assess or grant clearance for participation in sports. It mandates that all healthcare professionals conducting assessments meet minimum education requirements and ensures that certified nurse-midwives are not denied reimbursement for services performed. The legislation emphasizes the importance of follow-up care for mothers and newborns, specifying that it must be provided within 72 hours of discharge and deemed medically necessary. Overall, the bill aims to streamline healthcare practices for APRNs, enhance their autonomy, and ensure adequate maternity care and follow-up services for patients.

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