Government Relations Update

By Mary Jane Maloney, Chair, Government Relations Committee

New Laws Affecting APRN Practice:

• Effective October 15, 1016 delegated authority by APRNs to administer drugs (ORC 4723.489) was authorized. The Board of Nursing (BON) was authorized to write rules about his law. At the January 2016 BON meeting, OAAPN provided draft rules for the BON to consider. OAAPN has heard that while many practices have already implemented this practice, others are waiting for the BON rules.
• RN license, COA and CtP renewal dates have been changed from August 31 to October 31 to allow the BON to implement a new version of the e-Licensing software. The next license renewal will occur in 2017 with a new deadline of October 31, 2017.
• Effective March 23, 2016: Limited expedited partner therapy will be authorized. All prescribing healthcare providers will have the authority to prescribe or furnish drugs to a sexual partner of a patient diagnosed with chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis. Before prescribing, be sure and review the specifics of ORC 4723.4810 by going to codes.ohio.gov.

Pending Legislation:

• HB 217: “Pink Slipping” authority for Mental Health/psychiatric CNPs and CNSs.
  • Passed House 2.2016 and forwarded to Senate. Was assigned to Health Committee. No known opposition.

New Rules Affecting APRN Practice:

• Effective February 1, 2016: The Board of Nursing (BON) revised rules affecting the standard care arrangement (SCA), formulary and OARRS.
  • Standard Care Arrangement: Review OAC 4723-8
    • APRNs need to retain their last three SCAs in the event the BON needs to review. The first SCA to retain is the 2015.
    • The SCA will now ne reviewed every two years instead of one.
    • The collaborating physician license verification needs to occur every two years with verification documented.
    • OAAPN has revised the Model SCA Template and it is available for purchase at oaapn.org.
  • OARRS: review OAC 4723-9-12
    • Must obtain before initially prescribing opioids, benzodiazepines and if patient exhibits any “red flags.”
    • If on opioids or “benzos” must check OARRS minimally every 90 days.
    • Initial OARRS must cover the preceding 12 months.
    • Must document that report received and information assessed.
    • APRN must first consult collaborating physician prior to prescribing a reported drug at the patient’s next visit when a determination has been made based on OARRS report or finding red flag(s) that there amy be abuse or diversion of controlled substances.
  • Formulary: Review OAC 4723-9-10(F)