Can our Veterans Count on You?

To expand Veterans access to quality healthcare, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on May 24 published a proposed rule extending Full Practice Authority to all Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in VA healthcare facilities.

Currently, APRNs must follow the laws of the state in which they are licensed regardless of the laws in the state where their employing health center is located. The VA is proposing to exercise Federal preemption of State nursing licensure laws to the extent that such State laws conflict with the full practice authority granted to VA APRNs. Such a proposal would preempt the laws and regulations in states that impose inconsistent physician oversight of APRN practice (with the exception of certain limits on the authority to prescribe controlled substances, which are mandated by the Controlled Substances Act). This action in the largest healthcare system in the nation benefits our veterans and our practice.

This rule means that APRNs in the VA would be authorized to provide services as described without the clinical oversight of a physician, regardless of state or local law restrictions on that authority. APRNs in the VHA would have Full Practice Authority by law – a major development in our country's efforts to reduce our Veterans wait times for care and to improve the quality of care they deserve and have earned.

It is critical that the VA hears from ANA Members, veterans, and family members of veterans...What can you do?

During the public comment period which ends on or about July 25th, ANA needs your help by submitting supportive comments to the VHA underscoring the important role that ALL APRNs play in providing access to high-quality care to Veterans at VHA facilities in your state and expressing why this rule will facilitate timely delivery of care to our nation's veterans.

Please visit the ANA Advanced Practice Advocacy page to submit a public comment today.

You may also want to visit and like the web page https://www.veteransaccesstocare.com/ .

Thank you for taking the time to submit a thoughtful, timely comment. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Can our Veterans count on you?

For all you do for our great profession, thank you.