Physician Groups Object to NP Prescription Authority

Several physician groups such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and Kentucky Medical Association are speaking out in opposition of expanded medical authority to nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioners currently hold independent prescribing authority in 12 states, while 29 states allow them to prescribe under physician supervision.

The increased authority of nurse practitioners has been used as a way to increase access to primary care services. In some states, nurse practitioners have been able to carry out primary care functions, such as performing routine examinations, prescribing controlled substances, and signing off on immunization records.

The physician groups are opposed to efforts in four states to grant nurse practitioners prescribing authority. They are also opposed to efforts to eliminate physician supervision of nurse practitioners. They believe that the training program for nurse practitioners does not adequately prepare them to carry out the tasks of physicians.


Source: USA Today
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-03-11-nurse-practitioners_N.htm