New York governor Kathy Hochul signed a new budget this month that contains a welcome provision: granting “full practice authority” to licensed nurse practitioners (NPs). Going forward, the Empire State’s 14,300 NPs will have authority to diagnose patients, order tests, and prescribe medications without physician supervision.
For too long, outdated and ineffective policies have constrained NPs and other qualified medical professionals. Repealing these laws will make it easier for patients to gain access to affordable, quality care. With a national physician shortage on the horizon, other states would be wise to follow New York’s lead.
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