Ohio House Passes Legislation to Expand Options for APRNs and PAs

State Representative Anne Gonzales (R-Westerville) has announced that the Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 139, legislation pertaining to hospital admission privileges of certain advance practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs).

According to House Bill 139, certain APRNs and PAs would be allowed to admit patients to hospitals for inpatient care. They are also required to notify the collaborating or supervising doctor or podiatrist prior to admitting the patient.

“Giving advance practice nurses and physician assistants greater ability to care for their patients will greatly improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of treatment,” said Rep. Gonzales.

The bill specifies that hospitals retain the right to not use APRNs and PAs in their admitting model, as the law is an additional option rather than a mandate.

House Bill 139 passed unanimously and will be sent to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.