Advanced practice nurses in North Carolina thwarted in legislative efforts yet again

The push for the SAVE Act in North Carolina is gaining momentum, as advanced practice nurses (APRNs) advocate for full practice authority. The bill would allow APRNs like nurse anesthetists and nurse practitioners to practice independently, bringing much-needed care to rural areas with limited access to healthcare services. These regions often struggle to attract primary care providers, leading to patients like Megan Conner’s who must travel long distances for screenings and end up in emergency rooms due to untreated common ailments.

The need for expanded access to care has become even more pressing with the recent expansion of Medicaid in North Carolina, which has introduced hundreds of thousands of new patients into the healthcare system. Lawmakers and advocates alike believe that granting APRNs full practice authority is crucial in addressing this increased demand for services. However, despite growing support for the SAVE Act, the bill has faced opposition and skepticism from physician groups and legislators.

Physicians groups have raised substantial amounts of money to influence lawmakers‘ decisions on the SAVE Act, leading to concerns about the impact of financial interests on policy decisions. Anesthesiologist groups, in particular, have been vocal in their opposition to the bill, citing patient safety and the preservation of the current team-based care model as their primary concerns. However, research has shown that expanding the scope of practice for APRNs does not result in increased complication rates and can actually improve provider presence in underserved areas.

The debate over the SAVE Act highlights the importance of bridging the gap in healthcare access, especially in rural communities where access to care is limited. Advocates argue that full practice authority for APRNs would not only improve access to care but also address issues like provider shortages and healthcare disparities. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all North Carolinians have access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their geographic location or financial resources.

The SAVE Act represents a crucial step towards addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations and creating a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system in North Carolina. As the debate continues, APRNs like Megan Conner remain committed to advocating for the bill and working towards a future where all individuals can receive the care they need, when they need it.