NPs plan to fight for autonomous practice in 81st Lege

Guess who’s getting a head start on the 2009 Legislature? The Coalition for Nurses in Advanced Practice recently sent its members a newsletter focused on planning for the next session. “Our plan centers on the imperative elements to make APNs successful in achieving our primary legislative goal, autonomous practice,” the newsletter states.

For the past few sessions, TAFP, TMA and other physician organizations have abided by an agreement with nursing organizations. The agreement placed a moratorium on legislative efforts to change the scope of practice of advanced practice nurses, or APNs. That moratorium expired the day the 80th Legislature adjourned sine die and the nurse practitioners have wasted no time pushing their agenda.

In the CNAP newsletter, former state representative Arlene Wohlgemuth writes an article coaching nurse practitioners to build a strong relationship with their legislators. “This type of grassroots relationship building is the only way to level the playing field with the $1 million PAC the physicians have,” she concludes.

Now is the time to gear up for legislative battles family physicians are sure to face in the 2009 session. Begin building relationships with your state representatives, become a TAFP legislative Key Contact and make a donation to TAFPPAC. Visit the advocacy pages on TAFP’s Web site for information.