The licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses and the payment of independent advanced practice registered nurses in certain government employee health plans

Texas House Bill 3794 aimed to update the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists. The bill sought to grant certain APRNs the authority to practice independently, including diagnosing, prescribing medications, and providing care without physician supervision. Additionally, it proposed that government employee health plans reimburse APRNs at the same rate as physicians for equivalent services. ([texaspolicyresearch.com](https://www.texaspolicyresearch.com/bills/89th-legislature-hb-3794/?utm_source=openai))

The bill was supported by organizations advocating for expanded healthcare access, as it aimed to increase the availability of primary care services by allowing APRNs to practice independently. This change was expected to address healthcare provider shortages and improve patient care. ([texaspolicyresearch.com](https://www.texaspolicyresearch.com/bills/89th-legislature-hb-3794/?utm_source=openai))

Opponents of the bill, including some physician groups, expressed concerns about patient safety and the adequacy of APRN training for independent practice. They argued that physician oversight is essential for ensuring high-quality care. ([texaspolicyresearch.com](https://www.texaspolicyresearch.com/bills/89th-legislature-hb-3794/?utm_source=openai))