California Nurse Practitioners Lose Battle For Independent Practice, Again

Expanding the medical role of nurse practitioners has long been opposed by doctors – some say for economic reasons. Proponents of the idea say it can help address the shortage of primary care doctors in the state by making treatment more accessible — and more affordable.

Under current state law, nurse practitioners can independently provide basic primary care, such as assessing a patient’s health status or diagnosing ailments. But they must follow physician-approved guidelines to prescribe medication, order tests or otherwise manage patients.

Nurse practitioners are among the most highly trained nursing professionals and must have at least a master’s degree. Registered nurses, are only required to hold an associate’s degree at minimum, and they don’t diagnose or prescribe on their own. Nurse practitioners say they provide quality care that’s comparable to that provided by physicians. They want California lawmakers to allow them to practice without the supervision of a doctor.