Bill H.569, introduced by Representative Goldman, seeks to amend existing statutes regarding hospital licensure and patient rights to clarify the role of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in patient care within hospitals. The bill defines an APRN as an individual licensed under specific Vermont statutes and allows for APRNs to be responsible for coordinating patient care alongside physicians. Key amendments include the insertion of language that recognizes APRNs as acceptable healthcare professionals in various patient rights contexts, such as being the attending care provider and being included in informed consent processes.

Additionally, the bill modifies the language surrounding patient rights to ensure that references to "his or her" are replaced with "the patient's," promoting clarity and inclusivity. It also establishes that both physicians and APRNs are responsible for patient care and outlines the necessary standards for hospital licensing, including the requirement for all patients to be under the care of either a licensed physician or an APRN. The act is set to take effect upon passage, emphasizing the importance of integrating APRNs into the healthcare framework in Vermont hospitals.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-1851, 18-1852, 18-1905