As discussions about the scope of practice for healthcare professionals continue across the nation, it’s clear that these conversations often generate passionate responses from various professional groups. These debates sometimes resemble turf wars, with each side asserting, “This is my territory, so you can’t encroach on it.” Unfortunately, what’s often overlooked in these discussions are the key concerns about whether changes will enhance public safety and improve access to quality healthcare services.
A healthcare professional’s ability to perform certain procedures is largely dictated by their designated scope of practice, which is defined by respective state medical, dental, or nursing boards, usually influenced by state legislation. In response to provider shortages, especially in rural and underserved areas, non-physician practitioners are increasingly stepping up to provide care independently. State lawmakers and health policymakers weigh numerous factors regarding scope of practice, including supervision rules, prescriptive authority, and other practice requirements.
To help clarify these issues, two informative charts have been created that outline the scope of practice for physicians, dentists, and advanced nurse practitioners nationwide. The State Medical & Dental Scope of Practice chart details what physicians and dentists can do in each state, including references to the relevant statutes, and whether a dentist can diagnose and treat obstructive sleep apnea.
The second chart focuses on the supervision policies for Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs). Their practice can typically be categorized into two types: full practice, which allows ANPs to evaluate patients, diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, manage treatments, and prescribe medications solely under the authority of the state’s nursing board; and collaborative practice, which involves a written agreement that outlines the working relationship between a physician and an ANP, detailing both parties’ responsibilities and prescribing authority.
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In summary, while the scope of practice discussions can feel contentious, it’s crucial to focus on the larger goal: improving public health and ensuring access to quality care for everyone.