Proposed rule would allow VA to grant full practice authority to APRNs

The Department of Veterans Affairs yesterday published a proposed rule that would allow its advanced practice registered nurses to practice to the full extent of their education, training and certification without the clinical oversight of physicians when working within the scope of their VA employment. The rule provides for four APRN practice categories consistent with nursing profession standards: certified nurse practitioner, certified registered nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist, and certified nurse-midwife. VA Under Secretary for Health David Shulkin, M.D., said the rule would “ensure VA has authority to address staffing shortages in the future,” but that the agency is not seeking to change its APRN policy at this time. The agency will accept comments on the proposed rule through July 25. The American Organization of Nurse Executives “commends the VA’s proposal to recognize APRNs as full practice providers when providing care in a VA facility,” said AONE President Maureen Swick. “APRNs play a vital role in transforming health care systems to provide integrated care. Expanding APRNs’ practice authority will further facilitate timely delivery of quality health care to our nation’s service men and women.” AONE is an AHA subsidiary.