APRNs Have Their Say in Michigan

It feels like I've been talking about the issues facing advanced practice nurses a lot lately. But I'm not the only one. Issues surrounding advanced practice registered nurses seem to be on everyone's mind as nurses become more educated, and take on greater responsibility.

Whether it's by earning their doctor of nursing practice degrees or by participating in short educational programs that ensure a smooth transition from school to clinical practice, nurses are hitting the books.

And across the country, APRNs are making strides toward practicing independently. One state currently considering autonomy for APRNs is Michigan. Its Senate Health Policy Committee heard testimony last Wednesday about providing licenses for APRNs.

The bill in question would define APRNs, "as an individual licensed under Part 172 as a certified nurse midwife, certified nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist-certified."

I caught up via email with MaryLee Pakieser MSN RN BC-FNP, president of the Michigan Council of Nurse Practitioners (MICNP) and Joanne Pohl, PhD, ANP-BC, FAAN, FAANP, Professor Emeritus, The University of Michigan School of Nursing and MICNP member. Both provided testimony before the Health Policy Committee. And both discussed the importance of the legislation with me.