Michigan Senate Passes Bill That Impacts How Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Practice

Posted by Donna Craig in Nov, 2013

On November 13, 2013 the Michigan Senate narrowly passed Senate Bill 2 which would give advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) more autonomy, and allow them to practice without the oversight by physicians.  The Senate bill would require APRNs to be under the supervision of a physician for four years after enactment of the legislation, or be under the guidance of an experienced APRN.  If an APRN is not under the supervision of a physician, then the APRN facing a malpractice or licensure action would be held to the higher standard of a physician.

 Advanced practice registered nurses include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and clinical nurse specialists.  Supporters of the bill cite shortages of primary care health professionals, particularly in rural areas, as a way to provide health care to those who are currently not receiving needed care.  Opponents of the bill say such a law would endanger patients.

 An amendment to the bill will not allow an APRN to organize, become a shareholder or member of a professional corporation or professional limited liability company after the bill becomes effective.

 As part of the Senate bill, an APRN Task Force will be created to oversee the licensure of APRNs.  In an amendment to the bill, the Senate adopted the requirement that would add two physicians to the APRN Task Force, and allow the physicians to serve as acting members of the Task Force.

 This bill is now on its way to the Michigan House for consideration.