My perspective, and professional experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio provides me with a unique understanding of the challenges that we face in delivering healthcare to Ohioans, including those from underserved, and vulnerable populations. The current legislation in Ohio limits the full independent practice authority of advanced practice nurses (APRNs), creating for unnecessary barriers to patient care. Despite our extensive, and rigorous education, and evidenced based national certification examinations in place, we are still restricted from practicing to the full extent of our education and national certification. 

This is not simply a professional issue, but a statewide healthcare concern. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, in states that have granted APRNs full practice authority, patient care has been improved across the board allowing all Ohioans, including those seeking care from highly vulnerable, and underserved populations to have the immediate access to care without delay when needed most. Ohioans deserve better, having the ability to  freely, and confidently access the healthcare they need, deserve, and depend on. However, they are often met with barriers, or delay due to the antiquated legislation that currently governs the practice of APRNs across Ohio, and the restrictions it places on the statewide practice authority of APRNs caring for patients in Ohio. 

As a concerned practitioner and advocate for the nursing profession, I urge Ohio lawmakers to pass legislation that would grant full independent practice authority to APRNs in our state, that allows for discontinuation of the current mandated physician/APRN collaborative agreements required for an APRN to practice in Ohio. This will not only enhance healthcare access and improve patient care, but also foster professional growth for the countless APRNs who have dedicated their careers to serving, and caring for patients across Ohio. 

Enabling APRNs to practice at the full extent of their education and national certification is the right step in meeting the healthcare needs of our state. Act now for the health, and wellbeing of all Ohioans, and professional growth of the nursing profession. Sign this petition to urge lawmakers to pass this important, and necessary legislation that would allow for all Ohioans to receive the care they deserve free from barriers.